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Autism/Son doesnt wear pants

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Expert: - 5/29/2009


Question
I have a son with autism he will be 7 next month. He doesnt like to wear anything below his waist nothing at all. He wears them at school and when were outdoors but as soon as we walk through the door he will take them off. I dont know what to do??? Its so diffcult b/c he is pretty low fuctioning and non-verbal. When I have tried to keep pants on he screamed and fought the whole time. I have two other children another w/ autism and one dd. I dont want to think its ok?? Can you please help!!! Thank so much.

Answer
HI Joann

This is not an uncommon issue with our kids. They often find clothing (shoes, pants, etc) very uncomfortable.

First of all, check the material of the clothing and make sure it is very soft and loose.

Plan a schedule to train him to keep his pants on in the house. You will first start with short periods of time and then reward him. Then gradually make it longer and longer. Set a timer so that when he hears the timer, he knows he can take them off. Let me know if I can help you plan out a schedule. I am available through consultations.

Valerie Herskowitz, MA CCC-SLP
www.valerieherskowitz.com
Author: Autism and Computers: Maximizing Independence Through Technology

Autism

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Valerie Herskowitz

Expertise

I am an autism expert and speech pathologist (for over 30 years). I am also the parent of a child with autism. I can answer any question on autism dealing with communication, education, behavior and diet. I cannot answer questions that are medical in nature or are dealing with medications.

Experience

I have run a therapy center for individuals with autism since 1981. I lecture all over the country. I also teach classes on autism on line.

Organizations
Vice President of Communications Florida Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists Member American Speech and Hearing Association, MembernAutism Society of America, President of the National Autism Registry, Vice President of the Association for Developmentally Disabled Adults and Adolescents.

Publications
Autism Society of America's national publication (September 2008). Advance Magazine, South Florida Parenting, Spectrum Magazine, I am the author of: Autism and Computers: Maximizing Independence Through Technology (available:www.valerieherskowitz.com)

Education/Credentials
I have a masters degree in speech pathology

Awards and Honors
I won a Stevie Award in 2004: Lifetime Achievement Award for my work with individuals with autism. My therapy center won, Judge's Choice Award Best Center in South Florida by South Florida Parenting magazine 2005.

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