This week we are on a new schedule for mornings and evenings. Everything has an allotted 'time'. There are rewards and sanctions for non compliance. The terms are well defined. The schedules are laminated and on the wall. Also on the wall is a sheet dd2 and I compiled called 'I have Autism: this means...' With a list of difficulties written in dd2's words.
dd2 has already lost screen time tomorrow due to completely ignoring several requests to get into her onesie for bed, despite being calm and relaxed ( telling me about 'the time Grandad broke the door handle). She also had warnings. Am fine with this and expected it: am just setting out the boundaries. There is also a social story above each schedule explaining why mum is trying to get Nell ready on time and that rules are needed.
She brought home a really simple (really simple) book to read. But refused to read it with me so I Insisted she goes to sleep and told her that 8:30 pm is sleep time as per the schedule.
This is my plan to bring order, reduce meltdowns over tricky transitions. ( particularly from screen time ) and develop her self-care skills.
I feel like a mum attempting controlled crying with an 18 month old.
Someone please honk in my direction!!!!!!!