How to Manage Restrictive And Repetitive Behaviors in Children with Autism
Restrictive and repetitive behaviors are common characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). These behaviors can manifest in various forms and intensities, such as flapping, rocking, strict routines, intense interests, and object fixation. Managing these behaviors in children with ASD requires understanding, support, and targeted intervention strategies. By implementing the following strategies, parents, caregivers, and professionals can effectively manage restrictive and repetitive behaviors in children with autism.
Understand the cause of the behavior
Recognize that restrictive and repetitive behaviors often serve as coping mechanisms for children with ASD. Understanding the purpose or cause of these behaviors is crucial. Does the behavior help the child regulate their emotions, reduce anxiety, or provide a sense of predictability? Identifying the underlying reasons can guide your approach. For sensory-related behaviors, interrupt and redirect the behavior by engaging the child in a different activity. For instance, if a child is spinning in a circle, gently take their hands and sing the song “Ring Around the Rosie” while moving slowly. By removing the sensory pleasure from the spinning behavior, the child may lose interest in it temporarily.
Manipulate the environment
Children with ASD often thrive in structured and predictable environments. Establishing a daily routine with clear schedules and visual supports can help the child anticipate and understand what comes next. Consistency in the environment can reduce anxiety and the need for restrictive behaviors.
Offer alternative options
Provide alternative activities that serve similar functions as the restrictive behaviors. For example, if a child engages in repetitive hand-flapping, introduce sensory toys or fidget objects that offer a similar sensory experience while being less disruptive or restrictive. This allows the child to redirect their behavior towards more socially acceptable alternatives.
Encourage interests and strengths
Identify and encourage the child’s special interests or strengths. Involving the child in activities related to their interests can provide a sense of purpose and engagement, potentially reducing the need for restrictive behaviors. For instance, if a child engages in climbing or bouncing off walls as a form of sensory seeking, redirect their interest towards sports activities like running, rock climbing, or jumping on a trampoline.
Consult with a specialist
Seek guidance from professionals who specialize in working with individuals with ASD, such as psychologists, behavior analysts, or occupational therapists. These specialists can observe, analyze, and assess a child’s behavior to determine the underlying function and implement strategies tailored to the specific needs of the child. Professional intervention can provide valuable insights and personalized strategies for managing restrictive and repetitive behaviors effectively.
Promote sensory regulation
Sensory issues often accompany ASD, and restrictive behaviors can be a response to sensory overload or seeking sensory stimulation. Creating a sensory-friendly environment and incorporating sensory activities that meet the child’s needs can help regulate their sensory system. For instance, create a choice board that includes a variety of activities satisfying the child’s sensory needs. Present the child with the choice board and ask them to select their desired activities.
Use positive reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is an effective strategy for encouraging desired behaviors. Provide praise, rewards, or preferred activities when the child engages in appropriate behaviors or uses alternative strategies. For example, if a child who engages in mouthing behavior independently uses a chewy instead of putting inappropriate items in their mouth, reinforce this socially acceptable behavior with praise, hugs, or kisses.
Remember, each child with ASD is unique, and it is essential to tailor strategies to their specific needs. By understanding the underlying causes, manipulating the environment, offering alternatives, encouraging interests, seeking professional guidance, promoting sensory regulation, and using positive reinforcement, parents, caregivers, and professionals can effectively manage restrictive and repetitive behaviors in children with autism.
Also read: Autism and Mouthing Behavior
About Olga Sirbu
My name is Olga Sirbu, I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Applied Behavioral Analyst. My goal is to support and empower families and individuals on the autism spectrum.
Autism Advance is dedicated to training parents and caregivers, providing practical tips, and teaching individuals how to educate kids with autism.
I share evidence-based practices to help you better understand and support individuals with autism. Learn practical strategies to help individuals with autism reach their full potential, as well as gain a deeper understanding and acceptance of autism.
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