Daily preparation regimen for kids with autism and ADHD, designed to facilitate school readiness
Morning Routine for Kids with Autism and ADHD
Navigating the morning chaos with your unique child no longer needs to be a struggle. Here are handy tips to transform those chaotic mornings into a harmonious routine for your child with autism or ADHD. Make these mornings more organized, as well as engaging and empowering for your little ones!
Why Tantrums?
Tantrums in children with autism and ADHD can be attributed to various factors, and acknowledging these reasons is essential for providing proper support. Keep in mind that every child is different, and the specific triggers for tantrums can vary. Listed below are some common reasons for morning tantrums:
Sensory Sensitivities- Children with autism might have sensory sensitivities, and the morning routine may involve a variety of sensory stimuli that may feel uncomfortable.- ADHD children may also have sensitivities, but they might be more related to difficulties with focus and attention.
Transitions Challenges- Both autism and ADHD can be associated with difficulties in transitioning from one activity to another.- The transition from the relaxed home environment to the more structured school setting can be challenging for some children.
Communication Difficulties- Children with autism may have challenges in expressing their needs or understanding verbal instructions, leading to frustration.- ADHD children may struggle with attention and may not fully grasp the sequence of tasks in the morning routine.
Executive Functioning Challenges- ADHD is often associated with executive functioning difficulties, including problems in organizing tasks, managing time, and initiating activities.- The morning routine requires strong executive functioning skills, and difficulties in these areas can contribute to stress and frustration.
Anxiety and Uncertainty- Both autism and ADHD can be associated with anxiety, and the uncertainty of the school day may trigger anxiety in the morning.- Children may worry about social aspects, academics, or other uncertainties.
Sleep Issues- Sleep problems are common in both autism and ADHD.- Lack of sufficient or quality sleep can contribute to irritability and difficulty in managing emotions.
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Morning Routine Ideas
Creating a morning routine customized for children with autism and ADHD requires careful planning and structure. Children with neurodivergent conditions often benefit from the following components:
1. Visual Schedule- Create a visual schedule using pictures or written words outlining the morning routine step by step.- Display the visual schedule in a visible and consistent location.
2. Consistent Wake-Up Time- Maintain a consistent wake-up time to establish routine and structure.- Opt for a gentle alarm or other subtle cues to signal the start of the day.
3. Sensory Considerations- Grant time for sensory activities that might help soothe their sensory needs, such as swinging, jumping on a trampoline, or utilizing sensory-friendly items.
4. Prepare the Night Before- Organize clothes and backpacks the night before to minimize morning stress.- Involve your child in this process to foster independence.
5. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps- Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps to prevent emotional overload.- Use visual cues or a checklist to guide them through the tasks.
6. Use a Timer- Apply timers to assist with transitions between activities and tasks.- Timers provide a clear, visual, and auditory signal when it's time to move on to the next activity.
7. Provide Choices- Offer choices wherever possible to give them a sense of control.- For example, let them choose between two breakfast options or two outfits.
8. Visual or Auditory Reminders- Use visual or auditory reminders for vital tasks, such as brushing teeth or putting on shoes.- Social stories, video modeling, or similar techniques can be helpful illustrations of routine expectations.
9. Positive Reinforcement- Use praise, rewards, or a token system to reinforce and acknowledge their efforts.- Highlight the positive aspects of their behavior.
10. Incorporate Preferred Activities- Include their preferred or calming activities in the routine, such as listening to music or engaging in a beloved sensory activity.
11. Communication Strategies- Use clear and concise language.- If the child has communication challenges, consider using visuals or a communication device to aid in understanding.
Remember that every child is unique, so customize the routine according to their particular needs and preferences. Clarity, structure, and sensory support are vital aspects in creating a successful morning routine for your child with autism or ADHD.
Sources1. Christine Hanrahan. (n.d.). 7 Tricks to Awesome Mornings for Kids with ADHD. HealthyPlace. https://www.healthyplace.com/parenting/adhd/7-tricks-to-awesome-mornings-for-kids-with-adhd2. Dr. Chantal Le Bruyn, Au.D., CCC-A. (2020, September 01). How to Relieve Sensory Overload in Children. Verywell Family. https://www.verywellfamily.com/sensory-overload-in-children-14166563. Vanessa Kano. (n.d.). A Guide for Managing Morning Routines for Kids with Autism and Sensory Sensitivities. Our Kids. https://ourkids.net/2020/09/29/A-Guide-for-Managing-Morning-Routines-for-Kids-with-Autism-and-Sensory-Sensitivities/4. Kim Hayden, M.P.H. (2020, March 03). ADHD and Morning Time Trouble: Tips for Keeping It Running Smoothly. ADDitude. https://www.additudemag.com/adhd-morning-time-trouble-tips/
Enrichment Data:
Transition challenges can be some of the most significant obstacles in a child's daily life. Children with autism and ADHD often struggle with transitioning from one activity or environment to another due to problems with executive functioning, sensory sensitivities, and social interactions. Transitions can range from moving from one room to another, ending an activity, or preparing for a new school day.
One essential tool for supporting a child with autism or ADHD during transitions is a visual schedule. A visual schedule provides the child with a tangible, ongoing representation of the sequence of events or activities for the day. It can be created in a variety of formats, such as pictures or words, and displayed on a whiteboard, desk, or other prominent location in the home.
Transition cues or routines can also aid in helping the child understand that a change is coming. For example, starting a timer 5-10 minutes before an activity ends and playing a calming song or displaying a visual cue can help children to prepare for transitions more smoothly.
Other strategies to support children with transition challenges include:
- Providing verbal cues before transitions
- Allowing additional time for transitions
- Keeping the environment consistent and predictable
- Limiting sensory distractions during transitions
- Creating a quiet space for breaks or sensory regulation
A carefully planned and consistent routine, coupled with clear communication and appropriate transition supports, can significantly improve the child's ability to manage transitions and set them up for a more successful day.
- Children with autism and ADHD can experience morning tantrums due to sensory sensitivities, which may be exacerbated by the variety of sensory stimuli in the morning routine.
- Implementing a morning routine tailored to children with autism and ADHD, such as a visual schedule, consistent wake-up time, sensory considerations, and task breakdown, can help reduce morning tantrums and promote a harmonious start to the day.
- In addition to a structured routine, addressing the child's mental health is crucial. Engaging in activities like music, a beloved sensory activity, or educational self-development modules can help improve focus, reduce anxiety, and support mental health.
- To bolster brain development in kids and teens, focus on improving their daily nutrition. Products like the Kids & Teens Brain Premium Dates Choco Spread, rich in Omega-3, DHA, Walnut, Dates, and other nutrients, can assist in concentration, memory, and reducing speech delay, even helping those with autism, dyslexia, or ADHD.
