Sensory Deprivation

There are times when we all need to get away from it all, to be completely removed from a situation. For many of us we just need to get away - literally. We might go for a walk, a bicycle ride or even a drive. Some might go outside and read or listen to music. BUT... if you have autism, it's a whole different story. By observation and research, I have come to realize that most of the time, when someone with ASD (autistic spectrum disorder) has a meltdown or episode, they can't escape what's bothering them, it usually comes from the inside. Generally it seems to come from some form of overload or frustration. So they have to find a getaway that works for them. What seems to help is...

Sensory deprivation - n.   Deprivation of external sensory stimulation, as by prolonged isolation.

I've watched my boys (and am slowly learning how to help them) do whatever they can to create their own form of sensory reduction. When a meltdown or episode occurs, I've found it's from feeling the "jitters" or some form of internal turmoil, maybe begun from frustration. The first thing we try is is a vest - for us a weighted and compression vest works best. Daniel has found that going into a small closet by himself works. Or when he's having a bath, at least once if not more, he will lay on his back so the water covers his ears. A HUGE smile comes over his face, and you can tell that he's one of his favorite places.

For Anthony, he will look for a blanket to pull up over him, and usually falls asleep. Then there's a bunch of pillows or a bean bag chair, he'll bury himself in it, or he'll find some fabric (whether a curtain or a sheet) and wrap it around himself and stay there for a while. Then there's the weighted compression vest. I've noticed that Daniel seems to seek as much sensory blocking as he can get, where Anthony prefers the squeezing, tight - but open areas. We have recently found that noise reduction headphones (or earmuffs) work very well also.

When it comes to sensory needs, it takes every kind of approach you can think of. Take a hint from your little one. They will give you clues, the hard part is deciphering them. I know that I've missed several clues over the last few years, but persistence will pay off. Keep trying new things until you find what comforts your little ones enough to break through the breakdowns.

From a mother's heart - keep focusing on your little ones, learn to read their signs. Let them lead you. God bless!