Autism Parenting Magazine Issue 44(Member's Dashboard) | Page 8

AUTISM SOLUTIONS
6. P
 rovide Reassurance:

8. The 3 E’s:

Frozen in fear, my client with autism refused to attend school after overhearing his older teen-aged
sister discuss some recent school shootings in the
news. To provide a comprehensive feeling of comfort and safety, his parents and I reassured him
that their home and his school are safe. We listed as many security measures as possible, such as
how Mom and Dad set the house alarm at night,
pointed out the numerous smoke detectors, and
mapped their fire escape plan. Likewise, at school,
we reminded him that all school visitors have to
sign in and wear nametags, plus regularly-practiced fire/evacuation drills keep everyone safe.

EMPATHIZE with your child that it is natural and OK
to be scared, and give him EMPOWERMENT to approach you and other adults for reassurance and
comfort. And, of course, ENCOURAGE him to continue to be kind to others.

7. B
 e Honest:
We don’t have all answers, and it’s ok to tell your
child when you are not sure either. You can explain
to your child that you are learning along with him or
her, and as a team, you’ll both figure out what’s best.

Using these communication strategies between you
and your child will help develop a stronger relationship, and, in turn, your child will feel comfortable and
safe in this ever-changing world.
Karen Kabaki-Sisto, M.S. CCC-SLP, is a Communication Expert
and Advocate helping people with autism for over 20 years. As
a certified Speech-Language Pathologist and Applied Behavior Analysis Instructor, Karen has been empowering people
with autism to have more meaningful conversations like never
before. Her highly effective “I CAN! For Autism Method™” - perfected for over 10 years and now incorporated within the iPad
app “I Can Have Conversations With You!™” is changing lives
through improved social and language skills. It is  100% fun
for both kids and adults to use! Join the conversation at www.
iCanForAutism.com.

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