Autism affects each individual in a variety of ways but one of the more consistent traits in an autistic child is being resistant to change.

Autistic individuals may have difficulty adapting to new situations and may prefer to stick to a routine, as change can be overwhelming. That is why it is important to recognise the individual’s needs and help them transition and adjust to changes.

One way an autistic child may demonstrate a resistance to change is through difficulty transitioning from one activity to the next.

They may become overwhelmed by the change in routine, and may need extra time to adjust to the transition. It may be helpful to use visual cues such as a schedule or a timer to help the child understand when the activity will be changing.

Additionally, it may be helpful to give verbal warnings prior to the transition to give the child time to prepare.

An autistic child may also show resistance to changes in their environment. They may become overstimulated or overwhelmed by changes in their environment, such as a new classroom or a rearranged room.

It may be helpful to introduce new changes slowly, and provide a consistent and familiar environment as much as possible.

An autistic child may also be resistant to change his or her diet, instead wishing to stick rigidly to set textures and colours of food.

Finally, an autistic child may also show resistance to changes in their relationships. Autistic individuals may be especially attached to certain people, and the introduction of new people or changes in relationships may be difficult for them.

It may be helpful to introduce new people gradually, and to provide the child with reassurance that their past relationships are still important.

Summary

In conclusion, autistic children may demonstrate a resistance to change due to their unique needs. It is important to recognise the individual’s needs and help them transition and adjust to changes.

By using visual cues, providing verbal warnings, introducing changes slowly and providing a consistent and familiar environment you can gradually improve an autistic child’s resistance to change.

Feel free to browse our site for more tips and help with raising an autistic child.  Alternatively you can go to either the UK’s National Autistic Society or the US Autism Association.