3 More Simple Ways to Discover the Joy in Your Autism Parenting Journey
- Jinnette Smith-Jackson
- Dec 19, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Jan 28
In the autism parenting journey, each step—big or small—matters.
I remember how starting a new routine with my son Peyton would feel like such an impossible feat. For example, even the smallest changes to his bedtime schedule would make us both so frustrated.
But over time, as we remained consistent, I’d notice little shifts in how our days ended. Peyton began to adapt to the adjustments— now he’s the one pulling me in to start our routines.
"Mommy, c'mon let's go!"
He's in control, and he lets us know it... gently!
Now, transitions are on par with other neurotypical kids his age. He even reminds us to look at his visual schedule so we're sure we don't miss anything.
Those moments are our huge wins, and they constantly remind us of how far he’s come since his autism diagnosis.
In one of our previous posts, we talked about how looking for answers, creating connections, and making small changes to daily life can help you discover more moments of joy and resilience in your journey as you raise your autistic child.
Today, I want to share three more ways to bring joy into your autism parenting journey. As you know, the little things you do each day will help your autistic child thrive.
So, let’s get into more ideas about what can lead to less stress and overwhelm, more calm, and joy in your family’s everyday life.
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3 More Simple Ways to Discover the Joy in Your Autism Parenting Journey
1. Create Schedules and Routines to Empower Your Autistic Child
We touched on this in the previous post as an example of finding a way to connect with your autistic child. But it deserves mention of its own.
As you already know, consistency is a lifesaver for your kid on the autism spectrum. Creating routines is one of the best ways to help your child feel secure.
By setting up daily schedules, your child will understand what to expect. This helps them reduce anxiety and allows them to transition from one activity to the other with more ease.
Using visuals like picture charts or calendars can make routines easy to follow. For example, start with a simple visual schedule for bedtime, meals, or bath time.
Peyton and his dad have gotten getting ready for school down to a science it seems.
They keep his morning routine/schedule visibly displayed in the kitchen. But Peyton likes to carry it with him as he gets ready. Knowing what’s coming next helps them both feel secure and in control.
It’s also made our mornings virtually stress-free. Since Peyton believes he’s in control there’s little to no push-back from him when he needs to transition to the next step.
For instance, he tells us, “Ok, it’s time to go get dressed!” Or, "Time to brush my teeth!" And off he goes. We’re out the door on time every day- no rushing!
Well, most days!
Peyton's bedtime routine is also a lifesaver in our home. If you'd like to give it a try download your customizable template by clicking this button here...
Celebrate the Wins:
Take a moment to acknowledge each successful step.
If your autistic child completes their morning routine without resistance, give them a high-five. You can even let them pick a small reward from a “treasure chest” with tokens or stickers.
Recognize these wins as progress toward their independence. Let them know how proud you are and you see and celebrate their effort!
2. Organize Your Home to Support Sensory Needs
Creating a sensory-friendly environment at home can make a world of difference for both your autistic child’s well-being and your peace of mind.
Every child has unique sensory preferences, so adapting spaces with calming features tailored to your autistic child’s needs can help them feel more safe, comfortable, and understood.
This also helps to reduce overstimulation and encourages independence in your child.
Here are some things you can do to help organize your home to create a sensory-friendly space for your autistic child:
Noise Reduction: Have "quiet corners" throughout your home where loud chatter or noises are kept at a minimum. You can also have noise-canceling headphones available to help reduce loud sounds if your child needs them at any time.
Comfortable Fabrics: Place soft, sensory-friendly blankets or fabrics throughout your home, to create a cozy environment. For example on their bed, sofa, or a comfy corner on the floor.
Or store them in an oversized basket for easy access.
Scent-Free Products: Opt for unscented items to avoid overwhelming smells.
Quiet Break Area: Create a calm space with dim lighting and soft seating for decompression.
Natural Elements: Add plants, and soft green tones, or spend time outdoors to encourage relaxation.
Reading Nook or Outdoor Space: Set up a cozy nook by a sunny window or a safe outdoor area for exploration.
These small adjustments can create a calming space that respects your child’s sensory needs.
NOTE: Click the button below to download your FREE video guide on Organizing a Sensory-Friendly Space for Your Autistic Child.
Celebrate the Wins: Notice and acknowledge how your child feels and acts in these sensory-friendly spaces. Point out the calm they may experience or how happy they seem while taking care of a plant or exploring a sensory nook.
Each time you see your child relax or light up in these spaces, celebrate it with an encouraging word and let them know how proud you are of them for feeling at ease or exploring on their own.
3. Make Room for Play and Exploration
Creating a home where play and exploration are encouraged can bring so much joy into your day-to-day routines.
For your autistic child, play isn’t just about fun—it’s a way for them to learn, communicate, and express themselves.
By making room for open-ended, sensory-rich play, you’re giving your child the freedom to explore and learn at their own pace. This can help reduce stress for both of you and make learning feel more natural and engaging.
Organize Spaces for Easy Access
Set up a few play zones in your home with easy access to sensory toys, puzzles, or favorite books.
For example, you could have a “calm corner” with soft textures, a bean bag, or a weighted blanket, where they can retreat and explore sensory toys that engage them.
If your child loves building, set aside a spot with blocks or other construction toys, so they have a designated area to dive in and create.
NOTE: Click to download your free video guide to help you organize your sensory-friendly home.
Rotate Toys and Activities For Your Autistic Child
Kids on the spectrum often do well with structure but also enjoy a bit of variety when it’s within a familiar routine. Consider rotating toys every couple of weeks or once a month to keep things fresh and spark curiosity.
Bringing out something that feels ‘new’—even if they've played with it before—can encourage new experiences for your kiddo. It adds a bit of excitement for them and lets you see their growth and creativity in action.
What are they going to create this time with those building blocks from two months ago?
Get Involved and Enjoy the Moments Together
Join in when you can! Playtime isn’t just for your child; it’s a fantastic way for you to relax and connect as well.
Even five minutes spent together in their play areas—stacking blocks, engaging in pretend play, or simply watching them explore—can help build trust and strengthen your bond.
Plus, when you’re present in those carefree moments, you might find your own joy. As you experience your autistic child’s curiosity, resilience, and unique ways of interacting with the world, how can you not?! 🥹
Ultimately, setting up spaces that encourage play and exploration makes your home feel more welcoming and supportive of your autistic child’s needs. It helps make your home a place where your child can grow and where you can both enjoy the little moments together.
Celebrate the Wins: When your autistic child explores an activity or skill they previously shied away from, celebrate!
Give them praise or snap a quick photo to capture the moment they build something for the first time for instance. To the "outside world," this may seem like a small achievement but for you and your autistic child, these are big wins!
These “playtime wins” are milestones, showing how they’re growing and learning. Joining in on their play lets you share in the joy of their discoveries and strengthens your connection.
Conclusion
Mama, I know the autism journey isn’t always easy, but with each small step—whether it’s creating routines, setting up sensory-friendly spaces, or making room for play and exploration—you’re building resilience, strength, and joy for both you and your child.
I also understand that some of these suggestions, especially celebrating each small achievement, might seem overboard for others ...but not for parents of neurodivergent kiddos, right?
These wins can be hard-fought! And so, every step forward, no matter how small, is worth honoring.
Share Your Wins With Us!
Thank you for being here and sharing this journey with me. I’d love to hear about your wins, big or small—here, we celebrate them all. Click to share your wins with us.
You can also share the link with other autism/ special needs mamas so we can keep the celebration going.
Let’s keep lifting each other and finding joy in the every day, one step at a time.
P.S. Download Your Free Video Guide: How to organize a sensory-friendly space for your autistic child
Don't forget to download your free video guide to organizing a sensory-friendly space for your autistic kiddo.
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