Children and individuals with Autism find routine and familiarity comforting, so starting daycare can be a challenge because it disrupts their daily routine with unfamiliar people, sounds, and expectations. If the child is experiencing stress and overwhelm, but is still required to nap at daycare, this can be a big challenge. But, daycare can become a familiar routine for children with Autism as long as they are given a chance to practice their new routine in their new environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Have you ever tried to sleep while you were anxious and\u00a0stressed out? Not easy, is it? This is often what happens\u00a0for children with Autism when it is time for naptime at\u00a0daycare. The good news is that there are plenty of ways\u00a0to help your child get comfy and start snoring even when\u00a0they are at daycare!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here are three important steps to follow when transitioning your special needs child to a daycare setting: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Take at least a few days with your child to get \u201cacclimated.\u201d At first, your child may not even want to go through the door! But don\u2019t despair. Be patient. Spend time with your child at the daycare facility exploring their colorful toys<\/a> and fun activities together. Do this well before your child\u2019s first official day at daycare. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Give your child some space. When they start to feel comfortable, let them approach other adults for assistance. As they approach daycare workers, this is the perfect chance to educate your child\u2019s caregivers about Autism and your child. Many daycare workers are not educated about Autism. If this is the case for your chosen provider, you\u2019ll need to play the role of \u201ceducator\u201d as well as advocate for your child<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As your child gets more comfortable, have your child start following the same daycare daily routine at home, even on weekends. This is especially helpful for naptime. Have your child take a nap each day at the same time<\/a> they take a nap at daycare. Following the same routine as daycare will help your child feel comfortable when they are at the facility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If your child has special needs<\/a>, it may be hard for them to ask for help, especially if they are non-verbal. The best thing to do is to be an advocate for your child so they can be comfortable with their needs met at daycare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In this post, we'll cover:<\/p>\n
Comfort is especially important if you want to help your child to relax enough to participate in naptime. Include your naptime routine on the list of instructions you provide to your child\u2019s caregivers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes! Lists are important. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Making a comprehensive list can be daunting, but it can give your child\u2019s caregivers more confidence when it comes to caring for your special needs child. When writing instructions on helping your child to sleep at daycare, be sure to include details of your at-home naptime routine. As you write your list, think about the steps you take to put your child down for a nap. If possible, take these steps into a numbered list for the daycare providers to follow. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, if you rock\u00a0your child first while reading a short story, be sure to\u00a0include this information for the daycare workers. If your\u00a0child still has trouble falling asleep, consider using a\u00a0sensory weighted blanket<\/a> to reduce anxiety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can create one or even buy a ready-made visual schedule.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parents of a special needs children many times need to take on the role of not only advocate<\/a> but also an educator. This dual role can be a challenge initially but will smooth your road ahead when it comes to success at daycare. You\u2019ll have to educate your child\u2019s caregivers on the best way to care for your child. <\/p>\n\n\n\n