★★★★★ 5
Engaging & Effective for toddlers w/Autism!
Format: Paperback, Format: Paperback
My almost 3 year old was recently diagnosed with Autism. He struggles with transitions and also has a speech delay, which often contributes to big meltdowns when he doesn’t get his way. He’s been a “hitter” since about 18M… and it’s so hard! I know he has big emotions and can’t regulate them easily. This book is FANTASTIC! It’s easy to read and has cute and relatable illustrations.
It can be a little repetitive, but that’s what helps get the point across. Let’s face it, my son is also very repetitive, so it seems to resonate with him. It talks about different feelings and emotions, how it’s ok to feel that way, and how to handle them without hitting. For example, you can use your words to ask a grownup for help; you can draw an angry picture; you can squeeze your hands into a ball and release them, etc. There’s different options for different scenarios, and each one is described in a way that toddlers can figure out how to do it themselves. His favorite is to squeeze his hands into a fist, or give his body a big “squeeze hug.” I’ve already caught him doing that a few times instead of slapping me!
It’ll take practice (like the book mentions) but I think he’ll be able to self-regulate better with some of these ideas!! I also have some new phrases to use and picked up some sign language. I love the tips for caregivers in the back!
If you have a hitter (especially one on the spectrum), you need this! I actually like it better than our other book, Hands Are Not for Hitting. Similar story line, but this one is more detailed and better suited for older toddlers. I highly recommend it!!
Hope this helps ☺️
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Reviewed in the United States on March 14, 2022
