Techniques to reduce Repetitive Behaviours in Autism

Does your child keep twirling repetitively? Does your child love flapping hands, flipping fingers over and over again? Do they speak the same thing in repetitive mode? Do you often spot them rocking back and forth while sitting or standing? Then indeed this is something to give a thought about. The presence of repeated behaviour is one of the distinct features of an autistic spectrum disorder. Stay on to know about some techniques that can help to manage it!

Why do autistic kids get involved in repetitive behaviour?

Children with autism frequently engage in repeated behaviours because they can offer them solace, stability, and a feeling of control in a world that may be overwhelming or puzzling to them. They can express their wants or decrease sensory overload by engaging in repetitive behaviours. By engaging in these behaviours, they are able to control their emotions and establish stability in their surroundings.

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Techniques to reduce/manage repetitive behaviour

1. Identify triggers :

Identify the situations or emotions that function as triggers by keeping track of them. Developing measures to address these behaviours might be aided by understanding what causes them and help in terms of sensory overload.

Also, check Tips to manage Sensory Overload in kids

2. Social stories and visual aids:

Visual aids, such as visual timetables or cues, can help people comprehend expectations and transitions. Social tales can help people learn and navigate social interactions more effectively, lowering anxiety-related repeated behaviour. Stories utilise basic language and visual aids to describe social circumstances and proper behaviours.

3. Encourage social and communication skills:

Repetitive behaviours in autism are frequently caused by problems expressing needs or speaking clearly. Individuals can convey their thoughts and feel less frustrated by using alternate communication techniques like sign language, assistive technology, or visual assistance, which can help prevent the need for repetitive behaviours and manage their sensory needs.

Also check, Oral motor exercises

4. Sensory integration techniques:

People with autism frequently experience sensory difficulties, and repetitive behaviours can be used to seek out or block out certain sensory information. Addressing sensory needs and reducing the occurrence of repetitive behaviours can be accomplished by putting sensory integration approaches into practice, such as offering sensory breaks, employing weighted blankets or vests, or establishing sensory-friendly locations.

Also check, Techniques to develop fine motor skills in kids

5. Positive reinforcement:

Approaches, such as praise, incentives, or token systems, can encourage people to engage in more suitable and adaptable behaviours. People are taught to switch their attention from repetitive behaviours to more socially acceptable activities by noticing and rewarding desired behaviours.

6. Seek professional assistance:

When creating personalised ways to deal with repetitive behaviours, the advice of experts like occupational therapists, behaviour analysts, or speech therapists can be quite helpful. To maximise results, these professionals can offer customised solutions, unique plans, and continuous assistance.

Also check, Techniques to reduce stammering in kids

FOODS THAT CAN HELP

Nuts:

Almonds, pistachios, and macadamia nuts all have something unique to offer. Macadamias support healthy brain function, while pistachio nut oils store fatty acids and fight inflammation. Almonds aid with memory improvement.

Seeds:

Mighty seeds are regarded as a superfood that is jam-packed with the vitamins and minerals your brain needs for vigour, focus, mood, sleep, and to prevent memory loss. Your general mental health will benefit from using seeds in your meal plan. Seeds include, Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, Melon seeds, etc.

Also check, Other benefits of nuts and seeds

Shankhapushpi:

According to Ayurveda, Shankhpushpi relieves tension and anxiety while calming the brain. Its Medhya (improves intelligence) characteristic also helps memory by functioning as a brain tonic. Take Shankhpushpi powder with warm milk or water as it assists in improving focus and memory.

Brahmi:

It has been demonstrated that brahmi enhances focus and memory. Some of the chemical constituents in brahmi stimulate the neural pathways involved in cognition, which aids in the development of cognitive skills. Additionally, this plant is utilised to treat dementia and other mental diseases like Alzheimer’s.

Ashwangandha:

The ingredients in ashwagandha have anti-inflammatory, brain-protective, and stress-reducing properties that may shield your body from a number of ailments. Ashwagandha is offered at nutritional stores and health food markets in the forms of powder, extract, and supplements.

Also check, Health benefits of pumpkin seeds

Green leafy vegetables:

A diet rich in greens is very helpful to keep your brain sharp and youthful. They are rich in antioxidants and help in protecting the brain from oxidative stress.

Proteins:

Any dietary plan must include protein because it is crucial for maintaining optimal brain health. There are numerous different foods that include protein, such as meat, fish, eggs, soy, milk, beans, legumes, and nuts.

Omega 3 fatty acids:

Through all stages of life, normal brain function and development depend on the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and (docosahexaenoic acid) DHA. These two fatty acids have potent anti-inflammatory effects on the body and are parts of cell membranes. They are also widely known for playing crucial roles in heart health and human growth.

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