Execution Plan Level 3

Once again only you can determine what level your child is at and then work in a plan, in fact you might find that your child starts at level 1 but quickly moves to a higher level because of a successful trip and/or progress that your child is making overall.

This level is for the highest functioning autistic children, could include those with Asperger's (falling under the umbrella of autism) would absolutely include those children with strong communication skills both verbal and non verbal.

At this level you might be wondering why this exercise is necessary.

First of all going to the supermarket or any store for that matter is a practical exercise in life,

everyone has to learn how to maneuver their way through a store of any kind in order to have or at least attempt to have an independent life.

Also, stores in general present many sensory obstacles.

Sensory Obstacles are the key components and challenges for every trip you will take, whether to the store or to Disney!

They are everywhere and warrant a brief discussion.

Every autistic child has sensory issues, the range is wide, varied and sometimes unpredictable.

For example, at one time my son hated the vacuum cleaner, but never was effected by loud music playing. The music was much louder but for some reason the pitch or feel or sound overall of the vacuum cleaner was extremely painful for him.

Today he doesn't like the vacuum cleaner but he doesn't run out of the room or scream. He does tend to plug his ears or disconnect himself from it by focusing on something else (i.e. if he is watching a video or drawing etc he becomes even more involved).

All autistic children benefit from working with the sensory issues that affect them. In some cases the more exposure the less sensitive they may become.  Making small changes are important for you to see the benefits.

At Level 3 you would do similar activities as Level 1 and 2 but you would have a longer list of items, your child might even write the items for you for example.

Also you are not limited to just the supermarket you may go any store that you feel might present a challenge for your child. It might even be a large home repair store (i.e. Home Depot).

 
Proceedureally you would:

1. Select the store

2. Make the shopping list

3. Have your more advanced child select the items in the store and pay at check out (if able to)

During this activity it is important to note any behavioral changes that might occur so that you can be prepared in an unfamiliar but busy environment (i.e. airport!) that a trip could introduce.

Since your child is verbal listen to your child carefully and pin point potential problems for a trip. For example if your child is expressing any discontent during the trip take note of it and remember it when planning a trip. 

Try to avoid reintroducing something that could

trigger that uncomfortable or bad feeling in your child--yes this is challenging but you and only you can tell when your child is stressed.