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Behavior Triggers: Understanding Seasonal Changes and Their Impact on Behavior


Child laying on the floor with toys

As winter settles in and the days are short, many families notice a shift in behavior, especially among children with autism. Seasonal changes—and the accompanying cold weather—can trigger increased anxiety, restlessness, and even maladaptive behaviors due to limited outdoor activities. Understanding seasonal changes and their impact on behavior and adapting your strategies can help ensure a smoother transition through the season.

 

How Seasonal Changes Affect Behavior

 

Winter can bring about unique challenges for children with autism. The cold weather often means less time spent outdoors, which can limit their ability to expend energy and engage in preferred activities. This lack of movement can contribute to heightened anxiety and restlessness, leading to maladaptive behaviors such as meltdowns, increased irritability, or difficulty concentrating. Recognizing these triggers gives parents the power to create proactive strategies that promote positive behavior and enhance overall well-being.

 

Adapting Strategies for Cold Weather

 

1.     Indoor Physical Activities

 

To counteract the energy buildup from being indoors, engaging in physical activities is crucial. Here are some fun options to try:

 

 Activity: Indoor Obstacle Course

 

 Materials Needed: Pillows, blankets, furniture (cushions from the couch, chairs, etc.), timer (optional). 

  

 Instructions: 

   - Set up a simple obstacle course around your living space using household items.

   - Create tasks such as crawling under a table, jumping over pillows, or balancing on a line of tape.

   - Encourage your child to navigate the course, timing each run for a fun challenge!

   - Adapt the difficulty based on your child’s abilities, making sure it stays engaging and safe.

 

2.    Sensory Fun with Snow

 

If you’re lucky enough to have snow, bring some of that wintry magic indoors!

 

 Activity: Indoor Snow Play 

 

 Materials Needed: Clean snow (or make faux snow using cornstarch and shaving cream), bins, scoops, and small winter-themed toys (like penguins or snowflakes). 

  

  Instructions:

   - Collect clean snow and place it in a large bin or use the faux snow alternative.

   - Provide scoops and toys for your child to explore their creativity.

   - Encourage them to build snowmen, create sensory “snow” scenes, or simply enjoy its texture.

   - This activity provides sensory input while incorporating imaginative play!

 

3.     Calm Down Corner

 

Creating a designated quiet space can help your child self-regulate when they feel overwhelmed.

 

Materials Needed: A cozy blanket, plush toys, calming visuals (like pictures or books with calming themes), and soothing music or sounds. 

  

Instructions:

   - Set up a comfortable corner in your home with soft seating and calming elements.

   - Encourage your child to retreat to this space when they need to take a break or cool off.

   - Use calming practices like deep breathing or listening to gentle music while in their corner.

   - Personalize the space with items that your child finds soothing to foster comfort.

 

4.     Creative Arts and Crafts

 

Encouraging creative expression can be a wonderful way to channel energy and emotions.

 

Activity: Winter Wonderland Craft

 

Materials Needed: Construction paper, cotton balls, glue, scissors, and markers. 

  

Instructions:

   - Provide each child with construction paper as a base for their winter scene.

   - Encourage them to use cotton balls as snow and other materials to create a winter wonderland (trees, houses, etc.).

   - Use markers and crayons for added creativity.

   - Display their artwork in a “Winter Gallery” to celebrate their creations!

 

 

We also find that having little mini trampolines, jump houses or swings to use during these times can really help out. If you want ideas that will fit your child’s individual needs, don’t forget you can ask your Occupational Therapist, Behavior Analyst, Teacher, or send us a message to chat privately!

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