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  • Autism Council of Utah
    • May 28, 2020
    • 3 min read

Autism Caregiver Tips & Referrals ~ From one autism family to another

Updated: Jun 4, 2021

If you have found an amazing professional, service, or something to help you care for someone on the autism spectrum. If you have found something that helps you on those extra hard autism days, please share them with us so we can share them with the autism world here in Utah. Email suggestions to ~ ourworld.jessicakerr@yahoo.com ~ Thank You!! Hang In There!! You Are Not Alone!

“If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.”

~ Dr. Stephen Shore


We all know that each one of our loved ones with autism is unique and different in their own special way. What works for one, might not work for another. However, why reinvent the wheel if you can learn from others who have navigated this autism journey before you. This is a place where parents and caregivers can give tips/advice/suggestions on what has worked for them in certain situations. The ACU is not responsible for or supportive of any parent suggestion. This is just an informational resource as to what has worked well for others.


 


Referrals ~ From one autism caregiver to another.





Photographers who are autism friendly ~

 




Tips For Caregivers ~ Taking Time To Care For Yourself




  • Listen to audiobooks ~ A great way to "escape" without actually leaving the house. The library offers a variety of free book options to listen to. Also, there are apps available if you want to purchase your favorite book.

  • Listen to Podcasts ~ Learn and grow in a variety of topics with podcasts. They are available for free with most cellular carriers.

  • Wireless Headphones ~ Be handsfree when you are talking on your phone. One less thing to worry about/hold and it is a great way to stay connected with others.

  • Paint your nails or get some "Do It Yourself" press on nails from the store. This is a simple way to help you feel pretty and do something simple for yourself.


 




The Joy of Potty Training









  • Reward each time there is an attempt to go in the toilet ~ a few pieces of a candy/treat favorite.

  • Reward Chart ~ Make up a sticker chart with various squares. Place a sticker on a square each time a bathroom attempt is made. Upon completing the chart, they earn a great reward (toy, candy, activity)

  • With boys, tile halfway up the wall around the toilet - even on the cabinet side

  • ABA

  • Go as slowly as your child needs to go. If you rush things you can end up going backwards.

  • Try the child/individual straddled backward on the toilet instead of standing/sitting front way on the toilet. That way it is easier to point into the pot and they can see what is going on.

  • Blog post made from a parents perspective ~ Go, Jack. Go! ~ http://gojackgoblog.com/potty-training-tips-autism/?fbclid=IwAR3wOKJGWiY6xj_Jg7XBVR3tIiOP8vQ7ZuHO6wqesuwDQRNlHf8w_7_F4kQ

  • Set up the bathroom with videos, toys, books, food ,drinks and closed the door. Tried to make it fun. About every 15 minutes stood him in front of the toilet. Once the child pees, give a high five and leave the room. Then take the child/individual back into the bathroom every half hour.

  • Pinterest has some fun ideas ~ www.pinterest.com

  • Making sure the individual is ready

  • Be consistent at all times.

  • Be prepared with cleaning supplies

  • Mo Willems book time to pee ~


  • Praise & Reward

  • Use familiar things they like to get them excited ~ "oh look --- went on potty"

  • Shows (tv, video) or apps about using potty

  • Don’t power struggle with potty

  • Give them power and control

  • Make sure you have time to be at home.

  • Verbal praises when used the potty

  • Setting a timer for 1 minute just to sit on the potty

  • Set a timer 30 or 45 mins . Before this, encourage liquids of their choice, offer salty snacks so they will drink. Then hopefully have a success

  • Check out peejamies ~ https://www.peejamas.com


This is a great example of things all caregivers can do when taking care of an individual with autism. Make and adapt a sticker chart that works for you. Reward yourself at the end of your chart with your favorite treat or activity. You deserve it!






 



All information provided on the ACU Web site is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute a legal contract between the ACU and any person or entity unless otherwise specified. Any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the ACU. Information on the ACU website is subject to change without prior notice. Although every reasonable effort is made to present current and accurate information, the ACU makes no guarantees of any kind.

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