Mornings can be a challenging time for many families, especially those with children on the autism spectrum. Establishing a structured and supportive morning routine is crucial for promoting a sense of security and setting the tone for a successful day. In this blog post, we will explore a practical morning routine tailored for children with autism, and we’ll highlight how Circle City ABA is here to support families in navigating these crucial moments.
Understanding the Importance of Routine
Children with autism often thrive on routine and predictability. A consistent morning routine can provide a sense of stability, reduce anxiety, and help children transition more smoothly into their daily activities. Circle City ABA recognizes the unique needs of children on the spectrum. Our team offers support to families in creating and maintaining effective routines.
Practical Morning Routine
- Visual Schedule: Start the day with a visual schedule that outlines the morning activities clearly and sequentially. Use pictures or written words to help your child understand the order of tasks, such as getting dressed, brushing teeth, and having breakfast.
- Sensory Integration Activities: Incorporate sensory activities into the routine to help regulate your child’s sensory system. This could include activities like deep pressure through hugs or a gentle massage, as well as providing sensory-friendly clothing options.
- Transition Cues: Use visual or auditory cues to signal transitions between activities. Timers, alarms, or a designated song for each task can help your child anticipate and prepare for the upcoming change.
- Breakfast Choices: Offer a limited but appealing selection of breakfast choices. Allowing your child to make simple decisions within a controlled environment can empower them and make the morning routine more enjoyable.
- Social Stories: Create social stories or visual narratives that explain the morning routine. This can help your child understand expectations, reduce anxiety, and feel more confident about the day ahead.
Circle City ABA Support
Circle City ABA acknowledges the uniqueness of each child and advocates for tailoring their morning routine to meet specific needs. Our team of experienced professionals actively provides support through various avenues.
- Individualized Behavior Plans: Circle City ABA works with families to develop personalized behavior plans that address specific challenges during the morning routine. These plans focus on positive reinforcement and skill-building to promote independence.
- Parent Training and Collaboration: The organization provides parents with valuable training and resources to better understand and support their child’s needs. Collaboration between Circle City ABA and parents ensures a holistic approach to the child’s development.
- Therapeutic Support: Circle City ABA therapists undergo specialized training to work with children with autism, delivering one-on-one therapeutic support to tackle specific challenges that may arise during the morning routine.
Creating a practical morning routine for children with autism requires patience, consistency, and a deep understanding of the child’s unique needs. Circle City ABA stands as a valuable partner in this journey, offering support, resources, and personalized strategies to help families navigate the morning routine successfully. With the right tools and guidance, families can create a positive and empowering start to each day for their children on the autism spectrum.
About Circle City ABA
Circle City ABA has state-of-the-art autism centers in Arizona, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, and Nebraska. We passionately nurture progress through play with ABA therapy. We develop programs and services specifically designed for each child. Our child-centered, compassionate approach to therapy brings family goals and clinical best practices in tandem to help kids learn and grow.
We’ll work together to define success and help your child achieve it. Contact our admissions team for more information on our services and how we can support you and your child. Find a location near you!
