Creating a calming environment during the transition from classroom to the car is an essential consideration for all, especially for a ADHD autistic child who has engaged in masking throughout their day.
Here are five strategies to help your child regulate their experience
1. Minimise sensory overload:
Choose a route or pick up point that reduces those sensory experiences that are challenging and or that leans into those that are preferred. To this end you may choose a pathway away from loud noises, (school bells, kids yelling and or traffic), bright lights, and crowds or choose a location that allows for greater movement perhaps parking further away from the school grounds or down on the school oval. Pay attention to your child’s sensory triggers, working with them to your child’s advantage.
2. Use calming tools:
Provide items that the child finds soothing, such as fidget toys, stress balls, or weighted blankets. Having these items readily available in the car can help them self – soothe during transitions. Consider incorporating a “sensory kit” that includes various sensory items that they can use as needed. Give your child choice and control as to what tools and resources they draw upon to meet their regulation needs.
3. Control the car environment:
Before your child enters the car, set up a calming atmosphere inside. This could involve adjusting the temperature, removing any clutter that may feel chaotic. Consider keeping the car tidy and organised to create a sense of order.
4. Introduce soothing sounds:
Play calming music or nature sounds in the car. Soft, instrumental music or white noise can help drown out any distressing external sounds and create a peaceful auditory environment. If your child has a calming playlist, consider using it or perhaps soothing sounds for your child is the absence of noise in which case noise cancelling headphones are your best option.
5. Collaborative routines:
Work together to develop a predictable routine for leaving the classroom. This may serve to empower your child giving ownership over the process. Visual pictures or social stories can further enhance your child’s understanding adn ease their anxiety.
Creating a Positive Transition Experience
Giving thought to your child’s unique needs and incorporating these into strategies that can support their transition between environments can create a more positive experience for you and your child.
Get Help for Your Child
If your child needs help with executive functioning, consider booking a session with our child psychologists or for a kids counselling session. We also offer cognitive assessments and ADHD and ASD Assessments, and therapy for children to see if there are other reasons behind their difficulties.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you and your family. Or you can book a telehealth consultation or in-person appointment if you are able to attend our clinics at Springwood or Thornlands in Qld, Australia, with our psychologists.