Prepare for the Doctor Visit with Your Child with ASD

Taking your child with autism to the doctor and other medical appointments can be a challenging experience. Kids with ASD often thrive on routine and predictability. The unfamiliar context, new people, and unpredictable events can be overwhelming for them. With thoughtful preparation, it is possible to make medical visits more manageable and less stressful for both you and your child.

Accepting challenges

The nature of doctor visits is challenging, because children with autism have often communication difficulties, sensory sensitivities, and a preference for routines.. Identifying these issues is the initial step to make adjustments that can facilitate the process.

Preparation tips

  1. Talk about the upcoming visit: use simple language to explain what will happen during the visit. Picture books, social stories, visual stories, and play-acting with a doctor's kit can help familiarize kids with what to expect.

  2. Create a visual schedule: children with autism often understand visual cues better than verbal instructions. Making visual schedule of the visit, using pictures or symbols for each step (arrival, waiting, examination, etc.), reduces anxiety.

  3. Visit before the actual appointment: If possible, organize a pre-visit to the hospital so your child can get familiarized with the environment. It will reduce the anxiety on the day of the actual appointment.

  4. Bring familiar items: having a favorite toy, or other comfort items will provide reassurance and make the environment feel more secure.

During the visit

  1. Communicate with medical staff: inform the doctor and nurses about your child's specific needs and triggers before the visit.  Tell them about communication preferences, sensory sensitivities, and any fears child might have.

  2. Reduce waiting time: schedule your child's appointment for early in the morning when wait times tend to be shorter. Call ahead and ask if there is a quieter waiting room available.

  3. Use distractions: bring along a tablet, book, or toy that can help distract your child during waiting periods or uncomfortable procedures.

  4. Stay calm and positive: children often pick up on their parents' emotions. By staying calm and positive, you’re helping to create a more reassuring environment for your child's visit.

  5. Break down instructions: if your child needs to follow instructions during the visit, breaking them down into small, manageable steps can be helpful.

After the doctor visit

  1. Provide positive reinforcement: praising your child for their cooperation during the visit will reinforce positive behavior for future appointments.

  2. Discuss the experience: talk about the visit afterwards, focusing on what went well. It will help your child process the experience and make future visits easier.

  3. Adjust strategies: reflect on what worked and what didn't. Be prepared to adjust your strategies for future visits based on your experiences.

Keep in mind

  • Schedule wisely: schedule the appointments during times when your child is usually most relaxed and cooperative. Avoiding some hours can reduce waiting time and sensory overload.

  • Seek specialized providers: some healthcare professionals specialize in working with autistic patients. The doctor who understands your child's needs can make a significant difference.

  • Use technology: there are apps designed to help children with autism prepare for doctor visits. These can be a fun and interactive way to familiarize your child with what to expect.

Visiting the doctor can be daunting for any child, but for children with autism spectrum disorder, the experience can be particularly challenging. By preparing in advance, communicating effectively with medical staff, and using strategies tailored to your child's needs, will help make doctor visits a more positive experience. Remember, every child with autism is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Patience, understanding, and flexibility are key to finding the best approach for your child.

 

ABA LEMAN