Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders have a special connection with animals, especially dogs. Autism Assistance Dogs can be a tremendous helper and friend for children in the following ways:
- Social skills - An Assistance Dog has a very calming effect on the child and is a'social bridge' which makes communicating with others much easier. Their dog gives the child something familiar and comfortable to communicate about with others. The child enjoys showing off their dog and is motivated to communicate to others about their special friend.
- Reduced anxiety levels - The dog is a calming presence, helping the child to cope with the pressures and stresses of their environment. This results in less frustration and anxiety and helps to minimise anger and aggression. Children with autism spectrum disorders are often highly sensitive to sensory input, in particular, sound, light, smell, and close physical contact with strangers, which can make being in public places highly stressful. A dog provides the child with more physical space and a comforting distraction from these environmental stressors.
- Better sleep - Children with autism spectrum disorders commonly have sleeping difficulties.With their dog on or beside their bed, the child feels more secure and calm and sleeps more peacefully.
- Obsessive repetitive behaviours - The dog can detect processes leading to repetitive behaviours and will nudge the child to gently break their focus.
- Diffuses meltdowns - The dog knows when the child is becoming upset and will provide the child with the comforting snuggles and kisses that are often all that is needed to diffuse a meltdown.
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