It may be Autumn, but hasn't the weather been amazing?
I like my routine. I always use the same cubicle at the swimming pool (to change in, not the other kind). I always put my clothes into locker number 12. On days when this is not possible, it is unsettling.
Now I guess you must be thinking that I have OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder). I don't think I do, but I did used to be alphabetically ordered and colour coded whenever the opportunity arose. Since then, either the busyness of life and a house full of family have knocked the edges off my obsessive organisation, or I have learnt to be more flexible, to change with the situation, to 'go with the flow'.
This change in routine, unpredictability, flexibility is more difficult for some of our children, and some adults too. Every person with additional needs is unique, but many people who are on the autism spectrum find it really hard when routines change, when things are not predictable, when they need to be flexible.
So I hear you ask, ‘what has this got to do with the bacon?’
Well it's been very hot recently.
’Yes... and the bacon?’
I had to go to the launderette to wash the duvet - thanks Tigger!
'Yes... and the bacon?'
Ah, the bacon!
All my boys eat a lot of bacon and bacon was half price at the petrol station today. Always keen on a bargain, I bought several packs.
Have you got it yet?
When I was unloading my duvet to go into the launderette, I spotted that the bacon was in the direct heat and blazing sunshine in my car and, unless I wanted bacon butties before I got home, I had to find a solution, be flexible, and think creatively. So I simply had to take my bacon into the launderette!
Doesn't everybody?
Once a teacher, always a teacher, so what is the message in this little adventure?
When we see people doing things we don't understand, it is very easy to judge, to jump to conclusions. When situations change, it is very difficult for some to change with them. You may know someone this is tricky for. So what can we do to help?
We can recognise routines and how these help those we care for or work with.
We can try to give advance notice if things are going to change.
We can be tolerant and understanding if they don't automatically take our suggestions on board - they might be out of their comfort zone.
We can give them time to think things through and, with children, show them with pictures or a visual timetable to help them see the order of things.
We can be more empathetic, getting where this person is coming from, being 'sensitive to their story'.
Oh my... There is a confused-looking woman loading her tumble dryer and staring at my bacon. I think it's time to go.
As you were.
Ali