<div data-elementor-type="wp-post" data-elementor-id="4208" class="elementor elementor-4208" data-elementor-post-type="post"> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-6b749c7 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="6b749c7" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-a569893" data-id="a569893" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-0aef1d7 elementor-widget elementor-widget-shortcode" data-id="0aef1d7" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="shortcode.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <div class="elementor-shortcode">Last Updated on January 30, 2023 by <a href="https://autismspectrumteacher.com" target="_blank" class="last-modified-author">Steph Reed</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-c1bb123 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="c1bb123" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-1529db4" data-id="1529db4" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-b71cd1f elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer" data-id="b71cd1f" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="spacer.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <div class="elementor-spacer"> <div class="elementor-spacer-inner"></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-42bc600 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading" data-id="42bc600" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="heading.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <h1 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">Podcast Episode Notes</h1> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-b917c2d elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="b917c2d" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This is a live recording from a Facebook Live I hosted this week. It took place in a group aimed at general support through the Covid-19 Crisis, in the island of Jersey, where I am from.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I took this opportunity to talk to parents and carers about potential strategies that could be helpful for families with children with special needs, when spending all day at home. I also answered questions that came up during the Facebook Live.</span></p> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-35261b7 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer" data-id="35261b7" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="spacer.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <div class="elementor-spacer"> <div class="elementor-spacer-inner"></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-c96044c elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="c96044c" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-72dada0" data-id="72dada0" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-e1cff4b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="e1cff4b" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We are living in difficult and unpredictable times. This is very challenging for all of us, most especially those with additional needs.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Every family has very different needs, as well as access to different sized space and resources.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We all have very different circumstances and therefore we need to think about what is </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">manageable for our unique circumstances.</span></i></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We want to try to avoid becoming stressed.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Stressed parents and carers equals stressed children.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Recognise how we are modelling being calm and if there is anything we can do further to support the children to be calm. If we show that we are anxious, our children will inevitably also be anxious.</span></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-e4208ae elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="e4208ae" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-4c09d29" data-id="4c09d29" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-0d2dab4 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="0d2dab4" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><b><i>Do what is manageable in our own, unique circumstances</i></b></p><p></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Go back over previous advice from professionals, this will be specific to your child&#8217;s needs and there may be helpful strategies that you can implement at home. Everyone&#8217;s needs are so different.</span></p> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-65881b6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer" data-id="65881b6" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="spacer.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <div class="elementor-spacer"> <div class="elementor-spacer-inner"></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-7737bec elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading" data-id="7737bec" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="heading.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <h1 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">Creating calm times throughout the day</h1> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-de46373 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="de46373" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-2c2e07f" data-id="2c2e07f" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-a11d2aa elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="a11d2aa" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Do some calming activities together.<br /></span>Examples of calming activities could be: listening to soothing music, massage on hands or feet with cream, sensory play or looking at a book. What are some activities that have a calming effect on your child? Is this something you can do together? Is this something the child prefers to do alone? Can you structure this into the daily routine at specific times, to create a familiar and predictable pattern?</p> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-3bb51df elementor-widget elementor-widget-image" data-id="3bb51df" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="image.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <img decoding="async" width="750" height="559" src="https://autismspectrumteacher.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/messy-play-768x572.jpg" class="attachment-medium_large size-medium_large wp-image-4210" alt="messy play calm activity autism special needs" srcset="https://autismspectrumteacher.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/messy-play-768x572.jpg 768w, https://autismspectrumteacher.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/messy-play-300x224.jpg 300w, https://autismspectrumteacher.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/messy-play-1024x763.jpg 1024w, https://autismspectrumteacher.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/messy-play-1536x1145.jpg 1536w, https://autismspectrumteacher.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/messy-play-600x447.jpg 600w, https://autismspectrumteacher.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/messy-play.jpg 1669w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-3c619c8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer" data-id="3c619c8" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="spacer.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <div class="elementor-spacer"> <div class="elementor-spacer-inner"></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-4934658 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="4934658" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-be3290a" data-id="be3290a" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-0c74d50 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading" data-id="0c74d50" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="heading.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <h1 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">Movement activities throughout the day</h1> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-55269b4 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="55269b4" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Alerting and energising movement activities are great to get the body moving, get children exercising and also using any hyperactive energy!</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It can be helpful to structure in times throughout the day where movement activities take place. At school, I would often structure movement activities before we took part in learning, to get the children&#8217;s bodies all warmed up and regulated. <br />This would often get them ready to focus on the learning task. For some children, I would have very regular movement breaks, such as every half an hour. It depends on the needs of the child, but for some very active children, this can be very helpful for them to keep their bodies moving.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ideas for movement breaks include: a circuit or a visual structure of different exercises (such as star jumps and stretches), rolling the ball to each other, a dancing, yoga or exercise video on YouYube.</span></p><p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">5 minutes movement break examples:</span></em></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dKa2LHYcln4" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Brain Breaks children&#8217;s yoga </span></a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwT5oX_mqS0" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Shake Your Sillies Out dancing song</span></a></p> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-3509361 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer" data-id="3509361" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="spacer.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <div class="elementor-spacer"> <div class="elementor-spacer-inner"></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-a0b44e9 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="a0b44e9" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-5cfa4f5" data-id="5cfa4f5" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-5b0d95a elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading" data-id="5b0d95a" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="heading.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <h1 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">Structure of the day</h1> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-01c75bf elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="01c75bf" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Implementing a consistent routine can help the children become familiar with what will happen in the day.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">For example, planning ahead when you and the children will do calming activities and do movement activities.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Over time, a predictable routine can help children feel safe and in control, as they know what will be happening.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Any school learning that has been planned with your teacher can be timetabled in at a specific time in the day.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Break down the tasks that you know will happen in the day.</span></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-2be7d8e elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="2be7d8e" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-4a52e8c" data-id="4a52e8c" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-1ac3a62 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer" data-id="1ac3a62" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="spacer.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <div class="elementor-spacer"> <div class="elementor-spacer-inner"></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-acc9cfd elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading" data-id="acc9cfd" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="heading.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <h1 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">Visual structure</h1> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-44d8a32 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="44d8a32" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It can really help children to know what they will be doing through visual structure or a ‘visual timetable’. How effective a visual support will be will depend on what meaning a child will take from the pictures (or text).</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Pictures, images and symbols can be very helpful in giving meaning. Therefore a timetable of pictures can be very supportive.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lets take all of the above information and put it into a visual structure. For example, a following schedule of a session with the following routine:</span></p><ul><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Rolling the ball</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Reading a book</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Counting socks</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hand massage</span></li></ul><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Finding these images on Google, taking photos or even drawing images and putting them in a clear structure, can help the child by showing them what is coming next. Over time you can change these images, as and when necessary. Visual structure helps give the child a clear beginning, ending and helps them to know what they will be doing. Here is a visual schedule I made using images from Google.</span></p> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-9003d09 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image" data-id="9003d09" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="image.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <img decoding="async" width="541" height="176" src="https://autismspectrumteacher.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/home-made-timetable-for-autism-special-needs-covid-19-home-learning.png" class="attachment-medium_large size-medium_large wp-image-4212" alt="home made timetable for autism special needs covid-19 home learning" srcset="https://autismspectrumteacher.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/home-made-timetable-for-autism-special-needs-covid-19-home-learning.png 541w, https://autismspectrumteacher.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/home-made-timetable-for-autism-special-needs-covid-19-home-learning-300x98.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 541px) 100vw, 541px" /> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-f88c419 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="f88c419" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If a child can read text confidently, a written list of upcoming tasks will support them to have a clear idea of what they will be doing. Perhaps they can tick or cross them off as they move through the activities to clearly show where they are up to.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If your child is familiar with using symbols at school, </span><a href="https://widgitonline.com/offer"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Widgit Online</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> are currently giving free access to their online symbol writing program. The Code is </span><span style="font-weight: 400; color: #000000;">WIDGIT30.</span></p> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-c06d7ac elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer" data-id="c06d7ac" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="spacer.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <div class="elementor-spacer"> <div class="elementor-spacer-inner"></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-b3d3801 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading" data-id="b3d3801" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="heading.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <h1 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">A dedicated ‘work’ space</h1> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-3c9238b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="3c9238b" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Having somewhere in the environment that is dedicated to ‘work’ can be helpful for autistic children by making it clear what will take place there.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This could be a desk, a table or a corner of cushions in a specific part of the room.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It can be set out in a way to make things clear to the child, showing them what they need to do. For example, having the work task in a basket to the side  of the desk.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Do what is manageable &#8211; you might start with 1 learning task, building up to 2 after a few days and 3 tasks after a week, depending on what is achievable for your child.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Don’t be afraid to repeat tasks. Repetition allows a child to become more familiar with the learning activity and over time, build up confidence and enable them to do the task more independently.</span></p> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-90063b7 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer" data-id="90063b7" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="spacer.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <div class="elementor-spacer"> <div class="elementor-spacer-inner"></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-8115efe elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="8115efe" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-0659e57" data-id="0659e57" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-1212940 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading" data-id="1212940" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="heading.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <h1 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">Practical learning</h1> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-a6a7124 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="a6a7124" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">There are lots of opportunities at home for practical learning throughout the day, supporting a child to generalise the learning, to different contexts.</span></p><p>Think of any task or activity as a learning opportunity!</p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For example, depending on your child&#8217;s learning outcomes, there can be opportunities throughout the day to work towards these learning outcomes.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For example: <br /></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">&#8211; if turn taking is one of their specified learning outcomes, could they do a turn taking activity with you or their siblings each day?<br /></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">&#8211; If they are learnign to count, could you count with them during practical activities such as cooking or gardening?<br /></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">&#8211; problem solving and life skills tasks such as pairing socks, folding clothes and cleaning are important skills and sequences with lots of learning opportunities.</span></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-b95d6a3 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="b95d6a3" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-dbdb3c3 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="dbdb3c3" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-193e5a0" data-id="193e5a0" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-aeccac9 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading" data-id="aeccac9" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="heading.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <h2 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">Question: Any tips for an autistic 7 year old who now won't leave the house at all?</h2> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-fb86ce7 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="fb86ce7" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">What could be the reasons why they don’t want to leave the house? Understanding the reasons behind a behaviour, can help us know what strategies will be helpful to support the child.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Could it be anxiety related to the COVID-19 situation? Is it in understanding what is happening right now? </span><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Social Stories can be really helpful in increasing understanding about a specific situation. They can be personalised to the child to further help understanding.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Here are some </span><a href="https://www.sheffieldchildrens.nhs.uk/patients-and-parents/coronavirus-resources-for-children-and-families/?fbclid=IwAR05iJBFjSYWlpW5f1LMNARzM-JvdPIJDDGAwfNnF3GtobTYSBBZ3kxgPis" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">great free Social Stories and resources</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> about the COVID-19 crisis, to help children to understand what is happening and why they cannot do their usual activities or see their friends.</span></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-2f2de19 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="2f2de19" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-3bb719d" data-id="3bb719d" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-b2ad7af elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer" data-id="b2ad7af" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="spacer.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <div class="elementor-spacer"> <div class="elementor-spacer-inner"></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-b4b50f2 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading" data-id="b4b50f2" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="heading.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <h2 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">Ensure that we are truthful</h2> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-2dac087 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="2dac087" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We do not want to give misinformation in uncertain times as this will cause anxiety. Avoid saying anything you are not sure of. For example “we will go back to school in May”. We do not know this, so we must not say this to the children. This would only cause further frustration.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We can however say phrases such as “it is ok to feel a bit worried. We are not sure when we will go back to school yet”.</span></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-9cac971 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="9cac971" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-ccad92f" data-id="ccad92f" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-7c4f201 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer" data-id="7c4f201" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="spacer.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <div class="elementor-spacer"> <div class="elementor-spacer-inner"></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-52f139f elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading" data-id="52f139f" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="heading.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <h1 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">Using children's interests to engage them</h1> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-6211b06 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="6211b06" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Excite and motivate children through their interests or favourite toys.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For example, if they love playdough, you can do lots of different learning activities through playdough such as counting, making words, size, shape, role play, fine motor skills and so on.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cooking: following a sequence, measurement, counting, fine and gross motor skills, creative decorating and so on</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Gardening: fine and gross motor skills, sequencing, counting, shape, size, colour and so on.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It may be they have a favourite character or story that you can use to do different activities with. </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">We do not want a struggle to try to get a child to do a work task that they do not find fun or engaging.</span></i></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-3de23d2 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="3de23d2" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-f265dd5" data-id="f265dd5" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-4387e91 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer" data-id="4387e91" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="spacer.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <div class="elementor-spacer"> <div class="elementor-spacer-inner"></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-147e64f elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading" data-id="147e64f" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="heading.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <h2 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">Question: Any advice for transitioning from one activity to the other, being indoors a lot?</h2> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-0a3bab8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="0a3bab8" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We want to support the child&#8217;s understanding of what is coming next and that this activity has finished. Strategies that can help:</span></p><ul><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">A </span><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B079ZF3WZK/ref=as_sl_pc_qf_sp_asin_til?tag=asdteacher-21&amp;linkCode=w00&amp;linkId=803be00afc8bfd476313a96e7a95aaf1&amp;creativeASIN=B079ZF3WZK" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">sand timer</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> can help to show a child that an activity is coming to an end. When used often, a child becomes familiar with when a sand timer is shown, the activity will soon end. A sand timer also helps a child to visually see the time and when the sand finishes, this is when the activity will finish.</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">A count down from 10 or 5, using words and fingers, gives an extra visual cue that the activity is coming to an end. The more consistent and often this is done, the more effective it becomes. If this strategy is used inconsistently, it will become ineffective as the child will not learn what it means.</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Model tiding up with the child, so the child sees what to do and if necessary, help them to put at least one thing away. If a child is capable of tidying up themselves, ensure they do so, helping along the way if necessary.</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Use the object related to the next activity to show the child what the next activity is. For example, after tidying away a puzzle and the next activity is snack; show the child the plate to support that transition. If the next activity is cooking, show them the cooking bowl and picture of what you will be cooking.</span></li></ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-76b5531 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="76b5531" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-53a56a5" data-id="53a56a5" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-53ec080 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer" data-id="53ec080" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="spacer.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <div class="elementor-spacer"> <div class="elementor-spacer-inner"></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-27415c3 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading" data-id="27415c3" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="heading.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <h2 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">Question: Do you have any tips on phrases to use or visuals that you recommend?</h2> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-39ff043 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="39ff043" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">What we are aiming for is come consistency in all of this unpredictability.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For the child to know that when you say something, it will happen. So for example,  </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">“The puzzle has finished” &#8211; if I use this phrase each time, it will support the child’s understanding of what will happen. If I use different phrases, this may not support the child&#8217;s understanding. Again this is very dependent on the child&#8217;s abilities and needs. Any phrases that you know your child understands or that your teacher has mentioned, it is important to use these same phrases consistently.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Consistency in what we do and consistency in what we say, will support the child&#8217;s understanding (which should help to reduce frustration and behaviour that challenges).</span></p> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-c22526b elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer" data-id="c22526b" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="spacer.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <div class="elementor-spacer"> <div class="elementor-spacer-inner"></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-aa8ce98 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="aa8ce98" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-9680793" data-id="9680793" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-091ce21 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading" data-id="091ce21" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="heading.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <h2 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">Question: Any activities to wear out a very hyper 4 year old as he is getting super aggressive?</h2> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-cc5bcad elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="cc5bcad" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It would be good to think about times in the day to implement physical activity, for example, a series of fun exercises. This could be every hour or as often as you feel is necessary. Do it with the child if you can, to model movement, having fun and showing them how to do it.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Research shows us that when children are moving and having fun, they learn better.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Implement physical activities that include movement throughout the day, such as cooking, gardening, </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">building and making.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You can incorporate physical learning activities relating to your child’s learning outcomes.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For example: </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Maths: </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Jumping whilst counting, adding, multiplication. Run to different numbers to answer the sum. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Throwing into different baskets or bins with numbers, letters or words on</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Fun science experiments using hands and arms (fine and gross motor skills).</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Gardening: digging, planting seeds, watering, learn about the different plants and insects.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Also implement calming activities to support their sensory regulation and help to calm their bodies and minds.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Strategically implement physical activities and calming activities to support regulation throughout the day.</span></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-b2dca3d elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="b2dca3d" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-0c8ed4e" data-id="0c8ed4e" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-60b6e2f elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer" data-id="60b6e2f" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="spacer.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <div class="elementor-spacer"> <div class="elementor-spacer-inner"></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-34dc76c elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading" data-id="34dc76c" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="heading.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <h2 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">Question: We are struggling to get our child to do anything as his concentration is so poor, developmentally like a 2 year old apart from maths, so love your maths ideas, we also have a 2 year old and baby, so if I do anything with them, he gets aggressive.</h2> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-cb338ae elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="cb338ae" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Is there time where you can have specific time for him and he knows this? Something he loves, he knows he’s got that time with you and this is time he will receive positive attention from you. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Can this be visually represented so he knows when this time is coming? Such as a picture timetable of the activities that are coming up.</span></p><p>These are some of the challenges that families are facing, so please do only what is manageable, so that it is a calm and fun experience for the child, rather than stressed. This may need careful planning of exactly when this can happen and how often. This may need to be immediately followed by an activity that he can self occupy with so that you have time for your other children. A structured plan may help.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-f083546 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="f083546" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-6efdbaa" data-id="6efdbaa" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-92e488c elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer" data-id="92e488c" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="spacer.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <div class="elementor-spacer"> <div class="elementor-spacer-inner"></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-111ff1f elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading" data-id="111ff1f" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="heading.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <h1 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">A project idea for encouraging communication, talk and recalling past events.</h1> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-e6a97ef elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="e6a97ef" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Take a photo each day and make a book. This can be printed out if you have printer or made on the computer or phone. You can look at this each day with your child and talk about what is happening in the photo. If it is printed out, the child can make marks or write about what is happening in the photo. This will provide lots of opportunities for learning vocabulary and recalling previous activities. This will also be great to take into school when we go back to school!.</span></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-54cf754 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="54cf754" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-451a150" data-id="451a150" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-f4fb6bc elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor" data-id="f4fb6bc" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="text-editor.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You can find the guide I mentioned in the podcast about sensory needs here: </span><a href="https://autismspectrumteacher.com/sensoryneeds/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">‘Supporting Sensory Needs’</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> </div> </div> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-8ecaac4 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer" data-id="8ecaac4" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="spacer.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <div class="elementor-spacer"> <div class="elementor-spacer-inner"></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-8ead8a8 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="8ead8a8" data-element_type="section"> <div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> <div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-f84349f" data-id="f84349f" data-element_type="column"> <div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> <div class="elementor-element elementor-element-b7be7b5 elementor-widget elementor-widget-shortcode" data-id="b7be7b5" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="shortcode.default"> <div class="elementor-widget-container"> <div class="elementor-shortcode"></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> </div> <p>The post <a href="https://autismspectrumteacher.com/11-ideas-to-help-children-at-home-during-the-covid-19-crisis/">Podcast #11 Ideas to help children at home during the COVID-19 crisis</a> appeared first on <a href="https://autismspectrumteacher.com">Autism Spectrum Teacher</a>.</p>