A child with autism

[Rachael]

Children with autism tend to be highly visual. Cue cards which have pictures on are great for severely autistic children.

Generally speaking (because of course they are all individuals), autistic children love music so this is a great reward system. They are often sensitive to loud noise so a pair of ear protectors when out walking on a busy street are often appreciated.

They are also highly intelligent and great problem solvers. Puzzles, not just jigsaw puzzles but those metal shapes which need untangling, rubix cubes, anything like this, are well received. Sorting problems are also great too - If you have a load of dinky cars, use an old pizza box to draw out simply numbered or coloured "parking places" and then label the cars (use painters tape or post its) to correspond and watch how quicky an autistic child will sort the cars into the appropriate space.

Coloured building supplies are great - Lego, Duplo, anything which interconnection to build work well.

Autistic children also like routine and don't do well with change. So try and ensure that snack time, story time, free play, all occur on the same schedule each day. Expect a sudden decision to go to the park as a treat to be potentially problematic, they don't do well with spur of the moment changes.

Many autistic children are highly sensitive to touch. Depending on the severity of the autism, try and allow the child to have their personal space, don't be too touchy/feely/huggy unless they instigate it, don't use restraints in a high chair or stroller - unwanted physical touch can be very upsetting to them.

Be ready for some great challenges and be ready to be amazed. Lots of activities needed to channel their intelligence.