Transitions: hard for children with autism

Transition occurs when there is any change in activities or routines or settings. Transition is a very normal thing in our everyday life. But children with autism feel uncomfortable with any type of transitions. It has been observed that they respond very well to any familiar routines or activities but any type of transition causes anxiety and challenging behavior in them. Transition means uncertainty and unpredictability of the new situation and this is the main reason of their nervousness. So, transition should be well planned for these children. Most of the children with ASD have strong visual skills so visual prompts and supports will be helpful for them. Visual timers, visual schedules, first/then schedules are some of the tools that can be used for successful transitions for children with ASD. Visual supports can create clear instructions, reduces unpredictability and hence decreases confusion and anxiety in them.