A Social Story About Obsessions: For Kids on the Spectrum

Even more resources for parents of children and teens with High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's


==> Calming Products for Kids on the Spectrum

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Why I Have Obsessions: Social Story for Kids on the Spectrum

Hi. My Name is Jake. And today, I want to tell you why I have obsessions.

I often learn a lot about something I’m obsessed with, and I am very interested in it for a long time, and feel strongly about it. There are several reasons why I develop obsessions.

One. I get a lot of enjoyment from learning about a particular subject.

Two. I find social situations difficult, and sometimes I use my special interest as a way to start conversations, and feel more confident when I’m with my friends.

Three. obsessions help me cope with the uncertainties, of daily life

Four. They help me to relax and feel happy

Five. They provide order and predictability for me.

Six. obsessions provide structure, and routine, which makes me feel safe.

Seven. It’s hard for me to deal with change. If unexpected changes occur, I may have a meltdown, which means, my thoughts are racing too fast.

So, during stressful times, I try to distract myself with an activity that calms me down. And that activity is usually my obsession, or special interest.

So, to all the parents out there, if your child with autism has obsessions, sometimes, they help him to be less worried about things. And that’s a good thing.

Kids on the Autism Spectrum Who Hate Change: A Social Story

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Resources for parents of children and teens on the autism spectrum:
 


Even more resources for parents of children and teens with High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's


==> Calming Products for Kids on the Spectrum

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Hi, my name is Jake, and I have high functioning autism.

One very common problem for me, is difficulty adjusting to new situations.

While I love new things, like games and digital devices, I still have difficulty adjusting to a new environment, going back to school during this pandemic, getting used to different teachers, and any other changes in my daily routine.

 Even new clothes or changes in my favorite food, can upset me.

I need a steady routine, and a familiar environment, because it helps me to stay organized, and to know what to expect, or how to act. So, sometimes I stick to old habits, and that can result in obsessive thoughts, and behaviors.

While there are many reasons I don’t like change, most of these reasons have one common source. And that source is, fear! I’m afraid that I won’t like the change. 

But I need to learn to accept when things change, because as my mom told me, the world is full of changes. So, I have to learn how to deal with change now while I’m young, so I’ll be able to succeed in life when I grow up.

I may want to go to college someday. Also, I'll want to have a good job and make a lot of money as an adult. And all of those things include, change.

So, that’s my story about change. Thanks for listening, and I hope you have a great school year!