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When my son Kieran was in preschool and able to dress himself, he chose to wear his cotton knit pajamas (long underwear type) under his clothes for much of the year. I assumed this was a sensory thing and did not give it much thought. Recently, however, it occurred to me that it might have as much to do with temperature regulation as with touch sensitivity. Kieran seems to wear more clothing than most people in cold weather and less in hot. This realization sent me on a dive into the internet where, indeed, I found a number of articles indicating that Autism can be related to challenges in thermal regulation. As if there aren't enough other challenges out there!
Under or overdressing for the weather is probably one of those things that most caregivers take in stride as one of the quirks of our loved ones. We may not fully realize that it is physiological – our folks may actually experience changes in their core body temperature due to changes in outside temperature. Hypersensitivity to temperature may mean a person is cold and feeling stressed by it in environments where we are perfectly comfortable. Likewise, they may be easily overheated and need to be encouraged to hydrate.
| | Kieran bundled up against the cold last winter! | | |
Right now, our Ohio temperatures are fluctuating so much that helping our loved ones to stay comfortable is a huge task! Keep in mind that we can:
- Talk to verbal individuals. Ask them if they are feeling warm or cold and how we can help them be more comfortable. Keep a sweatshirt and a water bottle handy.
- Check the weather report and teach them to do so. Work together to figure out what clothing layers will work for them throughout the day.
- If they seem to be struggling with temperature regulation, see if you can find a warmer or cooler activity or environment.
- Consider investing in a cooling vest, a cooling bandana, a parasol, or a personal fan for outings. A smart thermostat in the home can help to keep your home at the ideal temperature at all times.
As always, understanding that temperature regulation is a challenge for many Autistic individuals helps us to avoid becoming irritated by resultant behavior and helps us to support and assist when someone is struggling. Stay cool (both physically and psychologically) this summer!
| | Kathi J. Machle, President | | |
Did you know that the Ohio Department of Developmental Disability has a variety of downloadable communication boards available to assist those with verbal challenges? There is a weather one which could help with the temperature regulation issues discussed above.
Of particular interest for summer travel is DODD's Airport Communication Board. If you are flying with someone with Autism this summer, you can notify TSA ahead of time by calling 1-855-787-2227 (call 72 hours ahead of time to request assistance).
In addition, at John Glenn Airport in Columbus or at Akron Canton Airport Visitor Information Centers, you can pick up a Sunflower Hidden Disabilities Kit which includes a sunflower lanyard, bracelet or pin – a discreet means of identifying those with a hidden disability that might require extra assistance, time or patience. The sunflower symbol is recognized at many airports around the world. You can email info@akroncantonairport.com two weeks ahead of travel and they will email you a Sunflower item.
| | Run With Me Cincy has just completed its spring session. ASO grant money helps to fund this family activity. For information about how to join the summer session, visit runwithmecincy.com. For information about other events happening in the Cincinnati area, check out the Autism Connections website. | | |
The Autism Society relies upon the tremendous work of our local organizations to help individuals and families throughout Ohio. If you don’t see your county listed below, please contact the Autism Society of Ohio so we can connect you with support and services in your area. For more information, call 614-495-7551 or
via email at info@autismohio.org
For information about events and support groups sponsored by other local Autism Society Affiliates, click HERE. The page identifies counties covered by a local affiliate and provides contact information.
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Other Local Affiliates and Events
June 5 is National Doughnut Day – a trip to the doughnut shop and a stop at the park might be fun!
| | NOW is a great time to order ASO merch for yourself or give as a gift. Find your new favorite hat, T-shirt, and more on our website! | | |
Looking for a fun and impactful way to support those with Autism in your community or throughout the state? Consider hosting a third-party fundraising event! Whether you're an individual, business, or organization, there's something for everyone to get involved in. These events raise vital funds, spread awareness, promote inclusivity, and can significantly impact families living with Autism.
Let's make a difference together!
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Examples of third-party events:
- Sip and paint
- Car washes, craft shows, or bake sales
- Casual Fridays and holiday parties
- Grand openings and store promotions
- Art shows/art auctions
- Bike-a-thon, walk-a-thon, bowl-a-thon
- Golf tournaments
- Black-tie events
- 5k races and marathons
| | STATE AND NATIONAL ADVOCACY | | |
The Supporting Blue Envelopes Programs Act would provide federal funding for Blue Envelope Programs throughout the nation. Blue Envelope programs provide individuals with Autism and other developmental disorders with identifiable envelopes that hold information necessary for traffic stops and other interactions with law enforcement. This program aims to ensure that communication with law enforcement is both positive and safe. For assistance in sending a message to your representatives in Washington on this issue, visit votervoice.net.
Information on other initiatives supported by the Autism Society of America can be found at votervoice.net. Your voice matters!
House Bill 453 is waiting for a second hearing. This bill is designed to modernize and clarify insurance coverage for Autism treatment. More information is available at asdohio.com. To express your support for a second hearing on this bill, contact the committee chair, Rep. Brian Lampton via email or by phone.
Autism Society of America continues to monitor what is happening in Washington. For updates on national legislation, you can subscribe to The Capitol Connection.
ASO has continued its advocacy statewide. Please reach out to us with comments or concerns. Your voice is important.
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