The Importance of Managing Autism Routines and Schedules 🧩

We all have off days or weeks, and I’m no different. At the beginning of this journey, I didn’t have routines or scheduled activities for Jacob. I just didn’t know any better. We have to be able to manage autism routines when our children are not able to manage their day without meltdowns or chaos.

But now that I do, I understand the importance of always having a schedule and plans for Jacob. With consistent routines, the chaos is gone. 🌟

The Power of the Schedule

📅 We know that schedules help keep down anxiety, aid with emotional regulation, and help Jacob enjoy his day, just to name a few of the huge benefits. So, what happens when I’ve had a yucky day, and now it’s time to fill the zipper bags for the weekly work? Or, I didn’t put the haircut, manicure, and pedicure on the monthly schedule, and now it’s needed, and I’m not in the mood to complete these tasks???

Managing Unplanned Changes

📆 Well, normally I can just show him the monthly calendar and add the haircut to the following day, and he’s okay with that. But if the nails are too long and bothering him, he will probably pick at them. This can be a big problem because Jacob easily gets ingrown toenails, and he will pick if it’s bothering him. See this previous post:3 ways to help your child on the autism spectrum navigate doctor visits more smoothly

Managing Autism Routines

🔧 Now, I just caused a major problem because I didn’t have my act together today. That’s just one example of life falling apart because I just let the schedule go and didn’t do my part. Also, if it’s not done and I’m grumpy because he’s not handling his day well, then I also know it’s partly my fault. Now, if I can fix and get us back on track, then, of course, I do.

🔄 If, however, he spirals into an emotional meltdown and dances on everyone’s last nerve and gets in trouble before I can course correct, then I have to punish him by taking away his ability to buy his Amazon purchase at the end of the week for completing work and having a great week.

Consistency Is Key

🚫 If I’m not consistent in rewarding good behavior and holding back rewards when he hasn’t stayed in check, then the whole system breaks down.

🤷‍♀️ Now, if I have to punish by not allowing the Amazon purchase he’s supposed to get on Friday, I feel incredibly guilty because I know I could have helped him more by having that schedule and work in place to guide his week.

📝 Sometimes though, life gets in the way. You start thinking he’s so used to the schedule he’ll be alright for one day. Maybe you just plain forget because you’re tired or sick. Just self-correct as soon as possible and get on track so your child is set up for success. Because you don’t want to carry guilt that you could have possibly prevented the whole scenario!

Give Yourself Some Grace

💖 Give yourself some grace. Remember if you don’t have a plan for your child, they will have one for you!

So, let’s keep those schedules in check and ensure our days are filled with structure and peace.