The Little Routine She Never Forgets 💜🌸
Every time we come to Golden Corral, Bella stops at those machines before we go inside. 💜
She doesn’t ask me to play them or try to win anything. She just wants time to look, explore, and take it all in. When she’s finished, she moves on.
Inside, I watched her explore in her own way again. And when we got to the ice cream machine, I gave her a little direction and let her figure out the rest.
But my favorite part came when we were leaving.
She walked through those doors and went straight back to the same machines where our visit started. 🌸
Moments like this remind me that something doesn’t have to look important to me for it to be important to her. Sometimes understanding Bella means slowing down enough to notice what she keeps coming back to.
Watch Bella Bloom 💜🌸
#autismmom #autismawareness #autismacceptance #nonverbalautism #specialneedsparent
Visiting familiar places can be a source of comfort and security for many individuals on the autism spectrum, much like Bella's routine at Golden Corral. What stands out in Bella's story is her intentional approach to the environment — stopping first at the machines before entering and returning to them upon leaving. This behavior can be seen as a self-regulating or sensory-seeking activity that provides her with a sense of control and predictability. From my experience with autism, I've noticed that these routines or rituals might seem small or insignificant to others but are crucial for the person involved. They provide a framework within which the individual can feel safe and manage sensory overload. Bella’s pattern—pausing to observe rather than engage—shows how she processes her surroundings according to her own needs rather than social expectations. The phrase from the images, "She already had her own plan... Every time we come here, she stops here first," truly captures this autonomy that many autistic individuals develop around routines. Allowing her to "figure it out" at the ice cream machine also highlights a vital parenting approach: gentle guidance paired with respect for the child's independence. These moments not only foster confidence but also show trust in her capabilities. As a parent or caregiver, it’s essential to slow down and notice these meaningful behaviors. They may not be obviously important but are vital communication forms and coping strategies for those like Bella. Embracing and accommodating these routines can improve quality of life and deepen the connection between parent and child. Incorporating patience, understanding, and observation in daily interactions can empower autistic individuals to thrive. Bella's story is a beautiful reminder to look beyond appearances and appreciate the significance of the small rituals that help shape their world.
She’s so cute ❤️