It's important to be prepared when you are going to babysit an autistic child. They think and process differently than non-autistic children. Autistic children are very sweet and unique, so it can be fun to spend time with them, but it is important to be aware of their needs. Here are some tips on how to prepare and deal with babysitting an autistic child.
1Get information from the parents. Ask useful and necessary information: Does the child have anyspecial behaviors that you should be aware of? What does the child like to do and eat? Is there any special way the parent have of calming the child when they are upset? What are the routines? It's important that you are aware of how the child behaves, and what can be done to make the child feel better.
2Be aware of dangers. Some things can set the child into defensive mode. It's very important that you, as the person responsible for the child, treat the child well and avoid triggers. Autistic children can melt down when afraid, frustrated, overwhelmed, or intentionally ignored. Be aware of what upsets them and respect that. Don't yell at them.
3Engage with the child's interests. Autistic people are particularly passionate about their special interests. That could be anything ranging from toy trains to singing. Ask the parents or child about their interests before the day of the babysitting job, so that you can learn more about it beforehand. Find ways to play and engage in this topic together. This will help the child open up to you.
4Know that routines matter. The child may want you to follow a specific schedule and do the same things every day. Routines provide a sense of security and stability to autistic children. Again, go to the parents and ask them about the child's routine. There may be a picture schedule or written schedule to help you.
5Encourage communication. It's a good idea to speak to the child often. Talk to them about their special interest, compliment their toys, ask them questions, and so on. Respond positively to their replies, even if they aren't capable of forming coherent words or sentences. Don't feel upset if you don't get much replies, since some autistic children don't talk much or prefer to talk to themselves.
6Respect the child's behaviors and needs. If the child seems to want to be alone, give them some space and keep an eye on them from a distance. If the child stims (e.g. flapping hands or spinning around), act like nothing is wrong or unusual about it, and continue doing what you're doing. This will help the child feel confident and respected.
- Be sure to give the child access to sensory items, like trampolines, finger paint, clay, and so on. Some autistic children love running and climbing, so consider going outside.
- Not two autistic children are alike. Don't worry about asking too many questions to the parents; it's a reasonable and helpful thing to do.
- Don't feel sorry for child. Autism is not a tragedy or a condemnation of inferiority. Chances are, the child is probably just as cheerful and sweet as any other child you know. Autistic children have great gifts to give the world too.
- Autistic children tend to take things literally, so be careful with teasing or joking, because they may not understand. If the child becomes confused, explain.
- Try to prevent overstimulation by avoiding loud noises, crowds, et cetera. Ask parents about specific sensory sensitivities.
- If an issue arises at any point, don't be afraid to call the parents. Especially if it is a sudden issue that arises, they will most likely appreciate you calling to see how it can be fixed.
- Be sure to have emergency numbers, and ways to reach and enter in contact with the parents, if anything happens.
- Don't call the police if the child melts down. Police may use excessive force and traumatize or kill the child.
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