Autistic Accommodations You Didn't Know You Needed

Introduction

• Host: Taylor from "Mom on the Spectrum"
• Focus: Sharing 25 accommodations for autistic individuals
• Theme: Authentic, unedited approach to video
• Context: Late diagnosed autistic adult sharing experiences

Giveaway Announcement

• Product: Calmer 2 Prototype Earbuds by Flare
• Details:
  • Giveaway runs until August 30th, 2024
  • Entry by subscribing, liking the video, and commenting
  • Four winners announced on September 4th

Insights on Accommodations

• Diagnosis: Received autism diagnosis at age 31
• Importance: Accommodations can significantly improve quality of life
• Analogy: Living with a pebble in your shoe until you remove it
• Goal: Free up cognitive energy

List of Accommodations

1. Earbuds

• Brand: Flare
• Function: Reduces high/low frequencies
• Experience: Essential for school functions and managing noise

2. Sensory-Friendly Meetings

• Tip: Suggest quieter, more comfortable places for meetings

3. Time to Think

• Practice: Allow yourself time before responding to questions

4. Stimming

• Types: Small (tapping, twirling hair) and large (rocking, bouncing)
• Benefit: Helps move excess energy

5. Research Locations

• Actions: Use Google Maps, check menus, plan parking

6. Leaving Overwhelming Situations

• Advice: It's okay to remove yourself when possible

7. Clear Expectations

• Ask: For outlined expectations and deadlines

8. Non-Verbal Communication

• Tools: Cards, gestures, texting, AAC devices

9. Occupational Therapy

• Purpose: Provides strategies for managing stressors

10. Positive Self-Talk

• Phrase: "It makes sense that I feel this way"

11. Spend Time with Animals

• Benefit: Calming and regulating

12. Comfort Items

• Examples: Watches, fidget toys, blankets

13. Weighted Backpack

• Use: Can provide comfort in stressful environments

14. Conversations While Walking/Driving

• Purpose: Reduce intensity of discussions
• Caution: Safety first

15. Automate Processes

• Examples: Automatic pet feeders, meal delivery, billing

16. Bamboo Kitchen Ware

• Benefit: Reduces clattering noises

17. Body Doubling

• Concept: Having someone accompany you for tasks

18. Multiples of Comfortable Clothes

• Embrace: Wearing what you feel good in

19. Compression Clothing

• Types: Leggings, sleeves, socks

20. Goblin Tools

• Features: AI-based tools for executive functioning

21. Crying

• Note: Recognized as a healthy release

22. Financial Support for Needs

• Perspective: Use finances for convenience and support

23. Drinking Hot Tea

• Purpose: Helps focus on present through sensory experience

24. Laughter

• Role: Stimulates vagus nerve, promotes relaxation

25. Accept Patterns

• Main Idea: Understand and work with your natural tendencies

Conclusion

• Encouragement: Be kind to yourself
• Community: Online community available for support
• Reminder: Late diagnosis requires patience and accommodation