BY: JENNY WISE
Updated: October 27, 2021
Credit :Unsplash
While moving into a new home is always exciting, it also comes with its fair share of stress. The move can be made even more complicated when you are doing it with a child on the autistic spectrum. However, with some patience, dedication, and careful planning, you can make the move an easy and smooth experience. Here at Reach Educational Services, we are all about growth and success, so we want to be your champion during your move, so we present some tips on how to make the transition a success.
Before you commit to a new home, you need to ensure that it is right for your entire family, including your autistic child. For instance, you’ll want to look for a quiet neighborhood with limited noise disturbances from loud traffic noises that could disturb your child.
When you have made the final decision to move, bring your autistic child into the mix right away. The last thing that you want to do is catch them off guard by packing boxes and making big changes without them being a part of the process. You should even bring them along on house walkthroughs so they can voice their own opinion. Keep your child informed every step of the way.
You’ll want to make some considerations indoors as well for the comfort of your family and your autistic child. Make sure to find a house that allows for your child to have their own bedroom so they can have their own space to collect their thoughts and be alone when they need it.
It’s a good idea to ensure that the living/dining room area is large enough so that your autistic child can play about, if they choose, without the worry of tripping, falling, or otherwise knocking into an item. You will want to keep the house clean and organized because in some cases, children on the autistic spectrum can be thrown off and upset by unnecessary clutter or disorganization which can come in the form of a pile of stuff in the corner to an unsightly stain on a chair.
It is very important to create a safe and calming space for your child to calm down when her/ she feels overwhelmed. This space can be a small corner in their bedroom with limited furniture (for example a bean bag or hugging peapod) and consisting of sensory toys (popits, fidget sets etc).
We should say a few words about the actual move with an autistic child as the transition can be a bit jarring. Have your child be a part of the process, especially when it comes to packing their old room and unpacking their new room. Allow them some input as to where things go and stay engaged with them throughout the whole process.
It may be a good idea to bring your child to the new home before you actually move in so they can get used to the new atmosphere. The same goes for if they are attending a new school. Definitely have them keep in touch with their old friends via Zoom meetings or even having playdates during the moving process.
In the end, with proper planning and strategy, moving with an autistic child can be easier than it seems. Just remember to stay patient.
If you need support from a special educator or plan on putting your child in tutoring or e-learning classes then contact Reach Educational Services at 803-757-0156.
My name is Jenny Wise I am a Special Educator. I am a stay-at-home parent to 4 beautiful children. My husband and I made the decision to home-educate when our oldest was four years old. During this journey, we have expanded our family, and faced many challenges along the way. With every challenge, we have experienced great rewards.
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