Autistic child being physical

Rachel - posted on 01/25/2012

my son sometimes is similar especially if there has been a change in routine, or if he has sensory overload etc. So while i'm understanding the behaviour, i still try not to tolerate it. I find time out very effective. At first I had to stand there the whole 5 minutes holding the door closed while he kicked the door screaming, but after a few times of being consistant it worked for us. So when he starts to hit etc. I say in my monotone voice and poker face "that's 1" if it continues "that's 2" then if it continues its straight to time out. I use a little kitchen timer so he knows when the time is up and he comes out himself. No forcing to say sorry as it generally is not genuine. Its more of a time for reflection than punishment. all the best :)

Denise - posted on 12/20/2011

I find that this behavior is an outcome of frustration in which he cannot express himself appropriately. What I find works with my son, who is now 10, is to try to ignore the bad behavior and replace it with good behavior so he knows what to do next. I used to give alot of timeouts etc. but I fiqured out that it was the emotions that my son couldn't filter, so I cannot deny him of them, but to teach him about them. He didn't know what to do with his emotions so I have to teach him. I learned that these kids are not wired for that, that's autism. I know what works for my son and I keep telling him over and over again all the time. Be kind to people and they will be kind to you. It's okay to be mad, upset, sad, afraid, anxious, etc. but it is not ok to hit or hurt. He still doesn't fully understand but he has come a long way. Get books, videos, visuals, apps etc. and teach teach teach but at the same time, pour on the love. He will learn. He will learn that negative reactions don't get him far, redirect, redirect, redirect. I know, sounds like a broken record, but these kids have broken brains. They are just not wired the same and need guidance with these things. Good Luck.

Angela - posted on 12/10/2011

Thank you for responding! I really feel as though this was a one time deal! My son has not done it since. He still does not do well with time-out either. He will not stay in the corner for me. I am very aware of the fact that he will only get bigger. My son is about a head shorter than me is all and he is getting close to being able to overpower me! I am praying that things work out for you and your child as well! Thank you!

Tammi - posted on 12/02/2011

I am going through the same thing right now with my 4 year old.My in home therapist suggested I clean out his room and put him in time out in there so it is isolated,I have been using time out on a chair which worked great at first using a timer so he knew when it was over but lately he has escalated during it so that is my next step.It is so scary because the bigger they get the more harm they can cause.I wish you the best and hope this helps us both!!Take care