Question

An OTR and OTA provide consultation services to a parent support group for elementary school-aged children with autism spectrum disorder. The parents express concern that they have begun to limit community-based family activities due to the difficulties their children with ASD often have in public places. They are concerns that these self-imposed constraints to decreased their stress may negatively impact their child with autism and their relationships with their siblings. Which community-based family activity is best to recommend to the parents?

Answer 1

Sensory-friendly events or venues are the best community-based family activity to recommend to parents of children with ASD.

Step-by-step explanation:

Parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often face challenges in participating in community-based family activities due to their child's difficulties in public places. However, it is important to find activities that can be beneficial for both the child with ASD and their siblings. One community-based family activity that can be recommended is visiting sensory-friendly events or venues. These activities are specifically designed to accommodate the sensory needs of individuals with ASD, providing a supportive and inclusive environment. For example, there are sensory-friendly movie screenings, theme park days, or museum exhibits where the lighting, sound, and crowd levels are adjusted to minimize sensory overstimulation. By engaging in these activities, parents can gradually expose their child with ASD to public places and help them develop coping strategies. Additionally, these activities can foster positive family interactions and strengthen relationships among siblings and parents.