Alee Behavioral Healthcare

  Having a routine in our daily life can prove to be highly beneficial. This is because it allows you to better manage and divide your time between work and your social life and develop  healthy and lasting habits . However, for children (and adults) with autism and related disorders, a routine can be invaluable due to the fact that it allows them to better manage their symptoms by providing them with a clear structure and a sense of familiarity. Therefore, while life can sometimes be unpredictable, you must make an effort to put together a daily routine that works for your child. Here are some top tips to get you started!  Put together a  weekly schedule  and display it clearly within your home. This way, your child can view their schedule at any time – and will know exactly what is expected of them each day.  Encourage your child to participate when putting together their routine, as this gives them a much greater sense of freedom and control. For example...

Children with autism often thrive in routine environments. When they know what to expect out of each day, they can prepare themselves accordingly. New situations, even “fun” ones, such as a playdate with a friend, are a clear deviation from the norm, which, for many, can therefore be challenging. Social stories  help to reduce their fears and anxieties surrounding this by taking the “unknown” out of the scenario. They provide them with a frame of reference that deepens their understanding of new social situations. As such, this can play a key role in encouraging children to broaden their horizons moving forward.

  The goals of occupational therapy(OT) revolve around improving the quality of life of individuals by enhancing their abilities in various activities of daily living. The purpose of this type of therapy is to develop, recover, and maintain functional skills. This article outlines the goals of  occupational therapy  and how they help clients. Promoting Independence One of the primary goals of OT is to promote independence which refers to an individual’s ability to perform daily activities without relying on anyone else for assistance. Increasing Range of Motion and Strength Occupational therapy also aims to increase the range of motion and strength of their clients. This aspect is particularly important for individuals dealing with chronic conditions or recovering from an injury. Improving Fine Motor Skills Fine-motor skills are essential for performing everyday activities like holding a pen or pencil, writing, manipulating small objects, and tying shoelaces. Facilitating...