Everyone right now is dealing with the Coronavirus, and each person is dealing with it their own way. As you are probably more than aware, people on the spectrum often tend to “fixate” on some things. This of course can manifest itself in many ways, whether it be a favorite toy, going out to eat, or seeing someone that they are missing or a where is manifests in forms that border on, or are, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) (More information can be found by clicking here).
While we try to avoid unnecessary news, as it can lead to fear, we want to stay informed. Unfortunately for someone who fixates, this even a little can become overwhelming.
One thing we’ve noticed, is our middle son has become fixated on cleanliness. It is something he has had before, but now with hearing about the virus, he is even more concerned, to the point of me watching him wash his hands only to go to the other end of the house, and wash his hands again. This has moved from a healthy aspect (washing of hands) to an unhealthy fixation. He also started walking around the house with a paper towel to open doors, latches, etc.
I sat down and talked to him, wanting him to know that being clean is important, and taking care of yourself is good. We should be concerned, but not living in fear. I tried to discuss with him the things we’re doing to stay safe because we are concerned (avoiding going out unnecessarily, wearing masks when around others, etc), but how we’re also making sure we can still live our lives. We don’t want to become hermits, or avoid hugging family members…we want to care for others and continue to show that.
I wanted to provide a way for him to feel secure, and give him confidence to avoid fear. Fear often comes from a lack of control, and with this virus, we don’t have control. We can’t control who gets sick, what the government or businesses do, etc.
I spoke with my mother, and she had a good point. The solution to fear is taking control and we needed to find a way to give him control.
Her solution was simple – to have him go around the house every morning, and clean all of the handles, knobs, etc inside the house. As long as no one comes in from outside the family, we can be sure that we’re clean. How that keeps all of us healthy and safe, and by making it one of his chores it gives him control over his health.
Luckily we have some disinfectant wipes, so he can go around the house and do it, and it also helps save my wife a chore for her that she did. Hopefully we will be able to keep finding those wipes so he can be in control of his environment and his life.
If your child is having fears about the virus, or other things, see what you can help give them control over so they don’t have to live in fear.
