Introduction:

Community outings can present unique challenges for parents of children with autism. However, with the right strategies, these outings can become enjoyable and enriching experiences for both the child and the family. Today we are going to review a few practical tips and techniques to help parents foster positive experiences during community outings.

Introduction on Autism:

Some children with autism may exhibit behaviors that can pose challenges during community outings, such as sensory sensitivities, difficulty with transitions, and communication barriers. It's crucial for us as practitioners and also for parents to recognize that these behaviors are not deliberate, but are often a result of the child's unique way of processing the environment and navigating communication challenges. Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how individuals perceive and interact with the world around them, so it's important for us to approach these challenges with empathy, understanding, and patience. 

• Remember that what works for one person may not work for another
• The goal of today is simply to discuss strategies and supports that may help your child thrive in various environments 

Before Community Outings… Setting Realistic Expectations:

Before embarking on a community outing, it's essential for parents to set realistic expectations based on their child's abilities and needs. This may involve choosing outings that are less overwhelming, starting with shorter durations, and gradually increasing the complexity as your child becomes more comfortable.

• Start with trips to the grocery store, down the street, etc
• Slowly build your way up to more challenging trips

6 Strategies for Successful Outings

1st Strategy — Visual Supports:

Utilize visual supports such as schedules, social stories, and picture cards to help prepare your child for the outing and to provide structure and predictability. Visual supports can help reduce anxiety and facilitate communication, making the outing more manageable for your child.

• Early learner - simply a picture of where they are going right before they get in the car
• Visual schedule - multiple stops along the way, teach the child to follow along
• Social stories - for learners with a lot of language - doctor visit social story

2nd Strategy — Sensory Considerations:

Be mindful of your child's sensory sensitivities and how the environment may impact their behavior. Bring along sensory tools such as noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, or sunglasses to help regulate sensory input and prevent overstimulation. 

• You know your child best and what may help them

3rd Strategy — Behavioral Strategies:

• Use positive reinforcement as much as possible when you catch your child “being good”. If they are sitting calming in the shopping cart, praise them and offer a fun toy or a lollipop from your bag BEFORE they are crying and upset.
• Maintain boundaries through difficult moments (while offering emotional support). Don’t do things that you wouldn’t normally do just because other people are watching. If you wouldn’t give your child a whole candy bar to stop a tantrum at home, don’t do it just because you’re in a grocery store. You and your child have nothing to be ashamed of. Maintaining the same expectations and boundaries with your child at home and in public sets you up for future success, even if some difficult moments arise along the way. 

4th Strategy — Preparation and Practice:

Practice specific skills and routines related to the outing in a controlled environment before the actual event. This can help familiarize your child with expectations and reduce anxiety. Role-playing scenarios and providing opportunities for rehearsal can increase your child's confidence and competence.

• Loud noises - practice making loud noises at home while teaching your child to find and put on their headphones
• Difficulty being told “no” in the store - set up a pretend store at home and tell them that they can “buy” only one item a day. Practice saying “No” at home where you can provide undivided attention and support without the stress of being out of your home. 
• Standing in line but loves going on rides - Practice waiting at home (before bath time) - use a “waiting song” and teach your child how to play with something else until it is their turn 
• Hair cutting - get a pair of toy clippers and practice pretending to cut their hair at home while they watch a favorite TV show

5th Strategy — Functional Communication:

Teach and encourage the use of functional communication strategies to express needs and preferences during outings. This may involve using visual supports, prompting language, gestures, or augmentative communication devices to facilitate communication and reduce frustration.

• PECS book to request different foods at Mcdonalds
• Picture of “home” for the child to point to if they are overwhelmed and want to leave
• Helping your child express “I need a quiet space”
• You know your child best! 

6th Strategy — Environmental Modifications:

Make environmental modifications as necessary to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for your child. This could include requesting accommodations such as quiet spaces or preferential seating arrangements, advocating for accessibility, and educating others about autism-friendly practices.

• Doctor’s office - asking for accommodations - “Can I show him how that works first?” - “Can I be the one to do that?” etc
• Salon - “Can I brush her hair?” - “If you hand her the brush, she will brush her own hair”  

3 Tips for Success

Tip 1 — Flexibility and Patience:

Remain flexible and patient throughout the outing, understanding that unexpected challenges may arise. Be prepared to modify plans or take breaks as needed to accommodate your child's needs. Approach each outing as a learning experience and celebrate small victories along the way.

Tip 2 — Self-Care for Parents:

Prioritize self-care and self-compassion as a parent navigating the challenges of community outings with a child with autism. Seek out support from other parents, professionals, or support groups, and take time to recharge and rejuvenate when needed.

Tip 3 — Collaboration with Professionals:

Work collaboratively with professionals such as behavior analysts, therapists, and educators to develop and implement individualized strategies for improving behavior during community outings. Seek guidance and support as needed to address specific challenges and promote the child's overall well-being. Talk to your BCBA!

Conclusion:

By implementing these strategies and approaches, parents can effectively improve their child's behavior during community outings, creating opportunities for meaningful experiences and fostering independence. Remember to approach each outing with patience, flexibility, and a focus on your child's unique strengths and needs. With time and practice, community outings can become enjoyable and enriching experiences for the entire family.