Supporting Individuals with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities Through Seasonal Changes
By Evan Saltzman, Ashtyn Smith and Abby Stanislawski
As the winter season begins, some experience excitement about all that winter has to offer. However, for many others the transition from fall to winter can bring with it anxiety and stress. As the temperature lowers, what is considered appropriate attire shifts. For some individuals, this differing clothing brings with it additional challenges. These challenges are often exacerbated in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and other intellectual disabilities due to sensory differences and resistance to change. Here are a few suggestions to help transition into the winter season.
Strategy #1: Use a Social Story
- Social stories can be helpful to introduce big changes to individuals with ASD and cognitive challenges by highlighting important details of the change. A social story about the changing season may include what the change is, what winter clothing is, and when to wear it.
- Some social stories include sensory information to prepare the individual for what they will experience. For example, this may include what the clothing will feel like.
- It may be beneficial to review social stories frequently throughout the winter season to remind the individual of the new winter expectations.
Strategy #2: Use a Task Analysis
- Task Analyses can be helpful. Breaking down tasks into smaller steps for individuals with autism and intellectual disabilities can allow for completion without feeling overwhelmed by the task being asked of them.
- Putting on a winter coat, boots, or gloves may seem like a simple task to many experienced individuals. However, for those learning the skill, these processes are multi-step processes that often need to be completed in a specific order to achieve a successful outcome. It may be helpful to organize hats, gloves, jackets, and boots in a consistent location and order.
Strategy #3: Model
- Many individuals with autism learn by watching others in their environments. When teaching the skill of wearing winter attire, ensure you are always dressed appropriately for the weather to set an example for others.
- Throughout the day, explain why you made the clothing choices you did. Before going outside you could say, “I put on my winter coat before going outside today because it is cold.”
Strategy #4: Use Reinforcement
- After successfully putting on appropriate winter clothes, provide the individual with specific positive praise. You could say “Great job putting on your winter coat before walking outside in the snow.”
- After the individual is dressed in winter clothing, allow them to engage in a preferred activity to increase the likelihood that they will wear appropriate winter clothing in the future.
Even with plenty of preparation, the transition between seasons may not be as smooth as you had hoped. Do not be disappointed if things are not going as you expected. Progress may be slow; practice and consistency are key to gaining lasting skills to successfully navigate the changing seasons. Remember to take time to enjoy the unique, fun experiences that the winter season has to offer.
Evan Saltzman, MS, BCBA, LBA is a Behavior Analyst at Chileda Shine and has a Master of Science degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Purdue Global University. Evan is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst and a Licensed Behavior Analyst in the state of Wisconsin with three years of experience working with individuals with autism and intellectual disabilities. Evan is passionate about working with individuals to reduce challenging behaviors and build skills.
Ashtyn Smith is a Behavior Consultant at Chileda Shine who aspires to create a positive impact for her clients and their families. Currently, Ashtyn is in school to earn a Master of Science degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and is excited to continue gaining experience in the Applied Behavior Analysis field.
Abby Stanislawski is a Behavior Consultant at Chileda Shine. For the past three years, she has been an educator and has always enjoyed working with special education students. Currently Abby is in school to earn a Master of Arts degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and Special Education.
