I Thought It Was About The Can Opener… 💜
For a long time, I thought Bella’s favorite objects were the story.
The can opener.
The comfort items.
The routines.
I thought the goal was to get rid of them.
But the more I learned about autism, the more I realized those things weren’t the problem.
They were helping her feel safe.
Sometimes what looks unusual from the outside is serving a very important purpose on the inside.
The biggest change in my parenting happened when I stopped asking, “Why does she need that?”
And started asking, “What does it do for her?”
That one question changed everything. 💜🌸
Autism parents, what’s something your child carries everywhere that other people might not understand?
Throughout my journey with autism, I’ve come to realize that objects and routines that might seem unusual to others play a crucial role in providing a sense of security and stability for autistic children. For example, a simple item like a can opener isn’t just a tool—it can become a source of comfort that helps a child cope with sensory overload or anxiety. I’ve noticed that when my child carries or uses these comfort items, it reduces her stress and prevents meltdowns. This shift in thinking—from trying to eliminate what we see as strange to understanding the function these objects serve—has transformed how I support my child. Instead of asking “Why does she need that?”, I focus on “What does it do for her?” This question encourages empathy and helps me create a more supportive environment. Comfort objects and routines act as anchors, helping children navigate an often overwhelming world. For many autistic individuals, predictability is essential, and these familiar items or rituals can provide that much-needed predictability. Sharing this insight has also helped me connect with other parents in the autism community who face similar challenges. If you’re an autism parent, consider observing the unique items or habits your child holds onto—they are not obstacles but rather keys to understanding and supporting their emotional and sensory needs more effectively. This approach has made a profound difference in my parenting experience, bringing peace and connection where there was once frustration.
