Rituals

Thoughts During Autism Acceptance Month.  

I have been thinking about the rituals that people with autism often have.  Some people line up toys or other items.  Others must have a specific routine throughout the day.  In the past when she was little, Lulu could not get dressed in the den unless the lights were on. It doesn't matter if there is a lot of sunlight...those lights must be on.  She also has to shut off all electronic devices when she is leaving for school or going to bed... this continues to this day.  And if she was in distress, she would sing Jingle Bells or another song.... now she just says, "BANANA!!!" when she's in distress... usually from my singing (everyone is a critic!).

Rituals such as these bring comfort to Lulu.  Often they will fade out after awhile, and new ones replace them. Currently she wants us to sing her nursery rhymes from a certain book... the one I wrote about earlier this month. I guess we are replacing the toy?  🤷🏼‍♀️ Unless they are severely impacting her learning, socializing, or are dangerous, we have learned to be patient with her, which is no small feat when the school bus is waiting outside!