A child with Autism Spectrum Disorder often experiences the
world like a tourist in a foreign land.
Imagine being in a new place- where communication is complicated and the
sights, sounds, and even smells are unfamiliar. If you were this traveler, you would
become anxious and want comfort. You
would look for someone who speaks your language- and if you were unsuccessful
in your search, you would likely go off by yourself to think. You might even
have a “melt down.”
ASD children and adults walk this journey every day. Some of their struggle is in a skill we take
for granted- being understood. Verbal
and nonverbal communication is essential for the give and take of
relationships. Without realizing it, our
brain helps us to sort through facial expressions, voice tone, the context of
conversation, and decipher the intention of a speaker. A new phrase that I
think helps in understanding is “neuro-diverse.” Children/adults with ASD have
differently wired brains which is why they respond in unpredictable ways. Advocates are working towards education,
inclusion, and acceptance of the unique ways that people with this disorder
think, react, and contribute in the world.
In 2010 a sample of 162 parents of preschoolers were
administered a stress questionnaire. The
reported stress of parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder were
compared to parents with Down’s syndrome, and parents of typically developing
preschoolers. All parent groups reported
stress, but parents of children with ASD consistently responded with higher
levels of stress overall. One identified source of stress is the isolation of families
with children on the spectrum. The ASD symptom
of over responding to sensory triggers (sights, sounds, or smells) can make simple
family activities like going out to dinner, the movies, or worship very difficult.
One mom in Maryland has begun to break down this barrier.
After a particularly upsetting and embarrassing movie experience with her
daughter who has ASD, Marianne Ross contacted the manager of a different movie theater and asked if it would be possible to have a special movie time for kids
with sensory problems.
Not only did the manager work with her to make this happen locally, AMC
theaters teamed up with the Autism Society to create the “Sensory Friendly
Film” program across the country. The
movies are G or PG, the lights are on (but dimmed) and the sound is turned
lower. If kids feel compelled to move
around, talk, shriek, and laugh loudly- it is all welcome during these viewings. These small steps can mean a big difference on
the family journey.
Be generous this month in support of the ASD community. Give your time by learning more, reaching
out, and showing compassion to “weary travelers.”
OKC Training:
AMC Crossroads 16
405-632-4872
AMC Quail Springs 24
405- 755-2466
*At the time of this post I have been unable to confirm this information locally. I will update asap.
