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For kids and teens with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), early diagnosis and intervention can go a long way in supporting improved development and gaining essential skills to help offset differences in communication, social interaction, and behavior.
As ASD specialists who provide comprehensive care for autistic children of all ages in the greater Houston Area, our team at THINK Neurology for Kids is dedicated to helping young people on the spectrum thrive in all areas of life — at home, in school, and socially.
Here, we take a closer look at five ways you can help your autistic child feel comfortable at social gatherings so that they can partake in typical childhood activities alongside their peers.
Social gatherings can be overwhelming for autistic kids
Many people, including many adults, experience a combination of excitement and anxiety at the prospect of attending a party. But for kids with autism, these feelings tend to be more intense and continuous in the lead-up to a group-oriented social event.
Additionally, parties pose unique challenges for children with autism, including:
- A break from routine in an unpredictable environment
- Sensory overload (i.e., loud music, many people talking at once)
- Complex dynamics of group conversations and social rules
- Continuous non-verbal cues (i.e., facial expressions, gestures)
- Differences in communication style with non-autistic peers
Without preparation and adaptive support, the unstructured nature of parties — coupled with the intense social navigation and sensory overwhelm that comes with them — can cause stress and anxiety that results in a meltdown as an autistic child struggles to cope.
Helping your child have a positive experience at parties
Research shows that the social stigma associated with autism can be isolating for kids and their families alike. In one study, 32% of families with an autistic child said other people excluded them from social gatherings and events.
It doesn’t have to be this way. Inclusion is essential for all kids, and with the right support, your autistic child can attend parties with their peers or family — and have a good time, too.
1. Let them know what to expect
Letting your child know what to expect before a party helps reduce anxiety related to the unknown. Visit the location (or get photos online) to familiarize your child with the venue, and ask the host about the planned event.
Create a visual or written “social story” that shows or explains what to expect, who will be there, what kind of activities will happen, relevant social rules, and appropriate behaviors.
2. Support their independence
Create visual supports for navigation and communication to help ease your child’s anxiety about moving through the party space independently and communicating their needs.
Use signs or picture prompts to indicate key locations at the venue, such as the bathroom and quiet areas. Consider using a picture exchange communication system (PECS) or communication boards to help your child express their needs and preferences during the party.
3. Collaborate with the party host
Discuss potential challenges your child may face, such as sensory sensitivities or communication needs, with the party host. If your child uses an assistive communication tool, such as PECS, share it with the host.
Let the host know about anything that might make your child feel overwhelmed or anxious — such as an unexpected touch in a group or a loud, lively game. With a greater understanding of your child’s needs, the host can create a more supportive and inclusive environment.
4. Empower your child to self-regulate
Before the party starts, please arrange for a quiet area where your child can retreat when they feel overwhelmed. Bring comfort toys, headphones, or weighted items to help them self-regulate when they become overstimulated. If your child has dietary preferences or restrictions, bring their preferred snacks to prevent feelings of exclusion when food is served.
5. Be flexible, ready, and responsive
Stay at the party to maintain a supportive presence, with the mindset that small steps are still “a win” by any definition. Be prepared to leave if your child isn’t coping well, and know that a short, positive experience is a success. Celebrate the win; maybe next time, they’ll stay longer!
Expert support for kids with autism in the Houston area
Inclusion matters for all kids, including those with autism. Call or click online to schedule a visit at your nearest THINK Neurology for Kids office in The Woodlands, Katy, Sugar Land, or San Antonio, Texas, today.
Our amazing team — including Shaun Varghese, MD, Cristina Marchesano, MD, Lorena Herbert, MD, Barbara Kiersz-Mueller, DO, Lauren Weaver, MD, Alicia Walls, MD, Sundeep Mandava, MD, Sherwin Oommen, MD, Robby Korah, FNP-C, Jennifer Duchaney, CPNP-PC, Tammy DeLaGarza, FNP-C, and Heather King, CPNP-PC — is always here to help.