By Katie Riley

As an auntie to a niece or nephew with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), you know that unique sensory challenges can make it difficult to participate in social and community activities. Here are some tips from the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) for helping teens with ASD participate in activities they want and need to do:

1. Understand the teen’s unique sensory challenges and plan accordingly. Some experiences typical of teen years might cause discomfort to those with ASD. Loud music, bright lights and clothing, and jostling can feel overwhelming. Consider these when making plans with your niece or nephew who has ASD.

 2. Consider the teen’s preferences. Allow your niece or nephew to voice their concerns about situations. Sometimes simply allowing them to select their seat on a train can help prevent an adverse reaction. If your niece or nephew has strong reactions to specific stimuli, avoid these when deciding on activities.

3. Keep new experiences short and predictable. Talk about your plans before heading out the door. Encourage questions from your niece or nephew. Discuss examples of what might happen at the event or activity.

4. Plan ahead when possible. When dining out, collaborate with a restaurant manager ahead of time to reserve a quiet table or brief staff on the teen’s challenges and reactions to sensory issues. Collaborate with business leaders or community partners before the teen joins an activity to help promote success.

5. Pre-arrange an exit strategy. Consider if the activity offers the ability to make a quick exit  or place to take a break so that the teen can leave the situation to reduce anxiety and even return when appropriate.

Occupational therapy practitioners are available to help families navigate the unique challenges that teens with ASD present. OTs help match teen’s skills to their interests while promoting participation. For example, a teen interested in basketball might enjoy keeping statistics for the team. Occupational therapy practitioners also help teens with occupational milestones such as acquiring accommodations when learning to drive, transitioning from high school to college or a vocation, make necessary adjustments at a new job to ensure success, and plan for the future.

To learn more about how an occupational therapy practitioner can help children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder participate in the things they want and need to do, visit the American Occupational Therapy Association’s website at www.aota.org.

Founded in 1917, the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) represents the professional interests and concerns of more than 140,000 occupational therapists, assistants, and students nationwide. The Association educates the public and advances the profession of occupational therapy by providing resources, setting standards including accreditations, and serving as an advocate to improve health care. Based in Bethesda, Md., AOTA’s major programs and activities are directed toward promoting the professional development of its members and assuring consumer access to quality services so patients can maximize their individual potential. For more information, go to www.aota.org.

Published: March 5, 2014