Today, I feel both great sadness and gratitude for my city. In these greatly challenging times, while I am constantly reminded of the power of the strong sense community Los Angelenos show when our city needs it, I still feel immense sadness for all those families who find themselves in the throes of upheaval—affected by the relentless wildfires. Being forced to leave behind the comfort and familiarity of home, losing one’s home, prized possessions and loved ones, is certainly more than I can comprehend at this time. I just simply want to offer my condolences to all those affected at this time. Transitioning to temporary accommodations—whether that means a hotel, a kind relative’s house, or a shelter—is challenging for anyone, but especially for our beautiful children with autism who cherish stability and predictability above all.
In that regard, I would like to offer some heartfelt tips to help support your amazing autistic child during this period of transition:
1. Nurture Routine: Even amidst impermanence, it’s comforting for children to have a semblance of a routine. Daily schedules, even if simple, create a pocket of predictability. Perhaps include set times for meals, learning sessions, or relaxed evenings filled with quiet activities.
2. Familiar Comforts: Bringing along cherished comfort items from home, such as beloved toys, soft blankets, or sensory tools, can offer not only solace but also a reassuring touchpoint amid new surroundings.
3. Explore Together: Introduce them to your new, albeit temporary, abode with loving curiosity. Walk through spaces together, pointing out intriguing features and similarities to the home they know well. This gentle familiarization can ease their adjustment.
4. Visual Cues: Utilizing visual supports, like calendars or picture cards, is a wonderful way to map out daily routines and expected activities. Such aids go a long way in minimizing concerns over what each day holds.
5. Craft Social Stories: Consider crafting or using pre-made social stories to gently explain the unfamiliar scenarios in relatable terms. These narratives can unravel concepts of evacuation, the crucial roles of brave responders, and the journey between homes.
6. Stay Connected Virtually: Despite the distance, technology enables us to remain close to those we love. Virtual chats with friends, family, or educators can gift your child powerful connections and provide continuity across miles.
7. Open Conversations: Invite open dialogues around your child’s feelings, acknowledging their emotional weather. Your sincerity is a beacon of safety amid uncertainty.
Please know you are not alone. We hold your family in our thoughts, wishing strength and serenity as you navigate these turbulent times. Do reach out to communities or support networks surrounding you—they can be invaluable allies on this journey. Some helpful li are below:
Westwood Recreation Center – 1350 Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025
El Camino Real Charter High School – 5440 Valley Circle Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
Pasadena Civic Center – 300 East Green Street, Pasadena, CA 91101
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