A Strategy to Help Autistic Kids be Less Afraid of Storms– Or Anything Else
(Courtesy of neuroclastic.com)
Storms can be scary for children and even adults. Still, autistic kids tend to be hyper-alert and have very reactive nervous systems, which makes them more susceptible to feeling fears intensely and being startled severely.
It’s absolutely cruel to expect autistic kids to regulate their nervous systems and “get over it” because they can’t. The good news is that there’s a huge opportunity to build your relationship with your child and to bond as you process your way through fears together.
Sensory issues can exacerbate anxiety about inclement weather, too. The noise of thunder can be deafening, and the violent flashes of lightning and the loud POP! when it strikes a nearby tree can cause even the most even-keeled adult to jump. Still, for people very sensitive to sudden or loud noise and bright lights, it can be downright terrifying.
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