Behaviour therapy and sensory therapy

Here are practical, therapy-based strategies to help reduce or manage pattern-following -ritualistic behaviours in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). These methods are widely used in OT, behaviour therapy and special education. ⸻ ✅ How to Overcome Pattern-Following -Ritual Behaviour in ASD Ritualistic or patterned behaviours happen because: • They provide predictability • Reduce anxiety • Give sensory comfort • Help with emotional regulation The goal is not to stop them immediately, but to slowly make them flexible. ⸻ ⭐ 1. Use Gradual Changes (Shaping Method) Make very small modifications to the routine so the child slowly tolerates changes. Example: If child arranges toys in a straight line ➡ first keep one toy slightly tilted ➡ after few days, change position of 2 toys ➡ later introduce different colours, then different directions This reduces anxiety and increases flexibility. ⸻ ⭐ 2. Use Visual Schedules With Change Cards Introduce a visual routine chart, but include “surprise -change” cards once or twice a week. • Helps the child prepare for changes • Gives control and predictability • Slowly reduces dependence on rigid patterns ⸻ ⭐ 3. Offer Limited Choices Instead of forcing new patterns, give controlled choices: • “Do you want to arrange in circle or square?” • “Do you want to sit here or there?” This increases flexibility without causing distress. ⸻ ⭐ 4. Introduce Functional Tasks Keep rituals, but redirect them into purposeful tasks. Examples: • If the child enjoys lining things → sorting beads, arranging books by size, organising cupboard • If they repeat patterns → puzzles, sequencing cards, pattern blocks This satisfies their need for order but in a meaningful way. ⸻ ⭐ 5. Use Sensory Integration Therapy Many ritual behaviours come from sensory seeking or avoiding needs. Helpful activities: • Deep pressure (weighted blanket, bear hugs) • Heavy work (pushing, pulling, wall push-ups) • Proprioceptive tasks (jumping, climbing, carrying objects) When sensory needs are met, repetitive rituals reduce naturally. ⸻ ⭐ 6. Use “First–Then” Strategy Very effective for breaking rigid patterns. Example: • “First pack toys → then play with blocks.” • “First sit here → then we go to park.” Provides clarity and decreases resistance. ⸻ ⭐ 7. Teach Flexibility Skills Through Play Games that naturally involve change help a lot: • Musical chairs • Simon Says (with varied instructions) • Obstacle courses • Turn-taking board games • Treasure hunt with changing clues These build tolerance for unpredictability. ⸻ ⭐ 8. Model Alternative Behaviours Show the child new ways of playing or arranging. Example: If child lines toy cars → You build a garage, bridge, parking lot. Invite the child to join without forcing. ⸻ ⭐ 9. Use Social Stories Create a short story explaining: • What ritual behaviour is • Why flexibility is needed • What the child can do when the pattern changes Helps them understand expectations calmly. ⸻ ⭐ 10. Reinforce Flexible Behaviour Give immediate praise when child tolerates change. Examples: • “Great job trying a new way!” • “You were flexible today!” • Stickers, tokens, preferred activity Positive reinforcement speeds progress. ⸻ 🧠 When Should You Reduce Ritual Behaviour? Reduce patterns only when: • They interfere with learning • Cause distress when interrupted • Prevent social play • Become unsafe (like repetitive running or switching lights on-off continuously) Otherwise, some ritual behaviours are okay and not harmful. ⸻