1. Wilbarger Brushing Technique

This is a protocol for helping a child get over sensory defensiveness. A soft plastic brush, similar to a surgical brush is used to brush all the parts of the child's body except for torso. about every hour. This creates brain connections in order to help the child get over the sensory difficulties, such as touch, that can cause problems. Many Occupational Therapists will say that you need proper training in this technique in order to see results. It is possible to check a search engine for the protocol, but it may be a good idea to see an OT, at least at first. You be the judge.

2. Trampoline

Some might be uncomfortable with the idea of a full-sized trampoline due to the possibility of injury. A smaller mini trampoline might work well in this case. Trampolines serve to help a child get the wigglies out. It can calm anxiety or anger, simply by redirecting. Large muscle workout is an added bonus, since many kids in the autism spectrum have low muscle tone.

3. Anger Workbook

Anger workbooks. I am walking my son through cognitive behavior therapy in order that he might get a handle on his frustration. We just started, but I am a huge fan of cognitive behavior therapy, so I am optimistic. Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) simply teaches the patient how to replace old stories with better stories, that hold more truth. So, instead of, "I always get mad when X happens, and I can't control it." Consider: "I get mad sometimes when X happens, and this is how I can control it." Teaching a child to control his reactions, is, in my opinion one of the most important things in autism, and the earlier, the better.

4. Baths

When the day is really, really bad, I fill up the tub, add some magnesium salts, available at any drug store, and often used as a laxative. Just pour about a 1/4 to 1/2 cup into the water as it is running to dissolve the salt. Let the child soak to his heart's content. Add water as needed, don't worry about the child being in too long. Said child always comes out in a better frame of mind. The added bonus is a fresh-smelling child, who might even be sleepy and relaxed.

5. Social Stories

Carol Gray wrote these stories as a blueprint for how to behave and to give a warning prior to upcoming events in a tangible way the child can understand. The child's name is added to the story and in a very matter-of-fact way with no value judgments, only facts. There are many examples on her website. Once you get the formula down, you can write your own. The main thing to remember is not to editorialize, or use complete concrete statements.

Children on the spectrum can be very literal, and if you write a story that says, "I will not..." many kids will grow upset if they do indeed do what they should not. Instead, consider using, "I will try not to..." . There is more leeway and room for error. Room for error means room for improvement

Most of these techniques are easy to implement, but as with anything else, there is a bit of a learning curve. Go easy on yourself. Try reading some books, such as The Out of Sync Child, The Out of Sync Child Has Fun, just about any book on Asperger's Syndrome. Try searching for information on "sensory diet." There is a lot of information out there, so don't get overwhelmed. Even if you are new to Autism, you will learn your way around.

Tina Cruz is a writer, wife and mother of three children, two who have high-functioning autism. She advocates for autism awareness and education, as well as acceptance. She views autism as a growth process and the opportunity to connect parents for support as a passion.

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