Let’s update those schedules:

You know it’s time to update those schedules when your calendar looks like a map of a complex labyrinth with more twists and turns than an episode of your favorite mystery series. Trouble changing the schedules? https://raisingchildren.net.au/autism/behaviour/understanding-behaviour/changing-routines-asd Reflecting on the past year, let’s take a moment to acknowledge what worked well and what didn’t in the realm of autism and schedules. As I listen to all the podcasts helping me improve myself, I’ve realized it’s high time we do more of what works and ditch what doesn’t.

“Hey, kiddo, remember that time we tried to fit in four different therapies, two playdates, and a partridge in a pear tree all in one day? Yeah, let’s not do that again.” So, this year, let’s resolve to establish and maintain a consistent daily routine. This can work wonders for reducing anxiety in children with autism and schedules. We’ll make a visual schedule or use a calendar to outline the day’s activities. Therapy sessions, schoolwork, playtime, and meals all get a slot. How Simple Planning Ahead Can Save the Day When Working with Someone Who Has Autism! These are areas that need attention when dealing with autism and schedules, and they’re like a puzzle – easy to make small daily changes to improve. We’ll stick to this routine as closely as possible but allow for some flexibility when necessary because, let’s face it, life can be as unpredictable as the weather.

Streamline the budget:

Now, let’s talk finances. If your wallet has a perpetual echo because it’s always empty, well, you’re not alone. Jake’s idea of budgeting is handing over his wallet with a look that says, “Refill, please!” If only money could be as easily replenished as a snack jar.

But seriously, it’s time to streamline the budget. We’re trying to teach Jacob the fine art of money management. As for us adults, we’re taking a closer look at our financial habits. It’s like a yearly clean-up for your bank account, an essential aspect of managing autism and schedules. And believe me, it’s a lot less messy than cleaning out the garage.

Self-Care, Better Diet, and Exercise:

Ah, self-care. That elusive concept that often feels like a mythical creature when you’re juggling the responsibilities of parenting a child with autism and schedules. But hey, we’re resolving to make it happen this year. We’ll prioritize self-care as a family resolution, especially within the context of autism and schedules. We’ll ensure that both parents get opportunities to recharge. Whether it’s through regular breaks, date nights, or pursuing hobbies and interests. Because a well-rested and emotionally supported family is like the Avengers of autism parenting – we’ve got superpowers!

Now, let’s talk about the diet. We’ve realized that a diet consisting solely of chicken nuggets and Dr. Pepper probably won’t lead to Jacob becoming the healthiest adult on the planet. So, we’re all in for incorporating better eating habits into our lives alongside autism and schedules.

And exercise? Well, that’s going to be a family affair. David’s got this habit down, but Jacob and I might need some extra motivation. Even Jake’s older brother, Nicholas, is racking up steps on his college campus, making us all look bad. Jacob does have a thing for spinach, broccoli, and carrots. So, we’ll be working those into the schedule more often to help improve his diet, all part of managing autism and schedules. As for me, well, I’m thinking of trying out the Mediterranean diet – anything that doesn’t involve counting how many chicken nuggets I’ve consumed.

These resolutions are like puzzle pieces themselves, creating a supportive and structured environment for the whole family, all while considering the specific needs of a child with autism and schedules. We’ll use the desire for a schedule to throw in some good small habits that will add up over time. Who knows, maybe we’ll even find a way to schedule in some spontaneous fun along the way.

Need help with schedules? Check out my previous blog post: “How to create a personalized schedule for children with autism”

Have a blessed and Happy New Year!