Written by Liau Alex
When kids with autism face sensory challenges, self-injurious behavior becomes a serious concern. Imagine behaviors like head-banging or self-biting—actions causing both emotional distress and physical harm. It’s crucial to tackle this issue head-on, exploring effective solutions.
Self-harm becomes a way of expressing inner turmoil, especially when mixed with tricky sensory issues. Sadly, usual approaches often fall short in understanding SIB linked to sensory challenges. This leaves parents and caregivers on a challenging journey seeking effective strategies.
Dealing with SIB connected to sensory issues needs more than a quick fix—it demands a thoughtful plan. This article aims to share practical tips, emphasizing why it’s crucial to actively address these challenges.
Finding What Makes Your Child Uncomfortable
Discovering the things that bother your child is the first step. It’s like uncovering hidden discomforts that might be causing self-harm. Work together with your child to figure out these triggers, making the process a collaborative effort.
Giving Different Sensory Experiences
To counter self-harm, offer alternative sensory experiences. Try out various things that your child can touch, hear, or see to provide comfort. Make their environment more comfortable by introducing tools and adjustments that cater to their sensory needs.
Helping Your Child Manage Emotions
Empower your child to handle their emotions by introducing coping strategies. Simple breathing exercises can be a calming journey for them. Encourage creative activities as outlets for emotional expression, building a toolbox of coping mechanisms.
Building a Strong Support System
In addressing self-harm, a robust support system is vital. Family and friends become the backbone of a loving circle, providing understanding and encouragement. Additionally, seek help from professionals who can offer tailored solutions, ensuring a comprehensive approach.
Assisting your child with self-harm linked to sensory issues involves understanding, collaboration, and support. By identifying triggers together, providing alternative stimulation, teaching coping strategies, and fostering a strong support network, you create a foundation for your child to navigate their sensory world with resilience and care.
If you’re dealing with your child hurting themselves and need expert support, Nurture Pods is here for you. We specialize in working with kids who have special needs. Our goal is straightforward – we create personalized plans to help each child in the best way possible.
What Makes Nurture Pods Special: A Complete Approach
Nurture Pods is different because we use proven methods that really work. Our focus is on making sure each plan is made just for your child. We’re committed to providing thorough, effective help. We know every child is unique, and our aim is to help them grow and develop as much as possible.
Nurture Pods goals:
- Personal plans: We believe in making plans that are just right for your child’s specific needs.
- Proven methods: Our methods are based on what has been proven to work, ensuring our help is effective.
- Whole development: Nurture Pods wants to help kids develop in every way – physically, mentally, and emotionally.
- Comprehensive assistance: We offer a variety of support services because we know helping kids needs a full and varied approach.
On your journey to support your child, Nurture Pods is here with expertise and care to navigate the challenges of self-injurious behaviors.
About The Author
Liau Alex obtained his degree in Psychology from the National University of Singapore and specialises in childhood disorders, specifically learning and behavioural difficulties. He has many years of experience working with children exhibiting a wide array of learning and behaviour challenges, many of whom have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
As an author, Alex has two titles published by Future Horizons Inc. (USA), the world leader in autism and sensory resources. Schools worldwide have used his books for inclusive education and parent training for children with special needs. Titles under his name include School Shadow Guidelines (2015) and A Parent’s Guide to Early Intervention (2021).
Alex received training on early intensive behavioural intervention (EIBI) in Australia and subsequently went to the USA, where he received relationship development intervention (RDI) training under Dr Steven Gutstein and Dr Rachel Sheely. He has presented in Australia, Houston, and Singapore and has also been invited to participate in media interviews. Furthermore, he has worked with clients from across the globe, including China, Taiwan, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
