Neighbor News
Making Hygienic Accommodations for Children with AS
Dr. Clatch offers some suggestions for accommodations to help children with AS develop comfortable hygiene routines.
As we have previously discussed, youth with Asperger’s and sensory processing issues may avoid hygienic practices due to sensory overload. In order to help these children and teens develop proper self-care skills, parents should consider making accommodations. One example that is useful in this area is the use of electric toothbrushes to address sensory issues related to teeth brushing. Electric toothbrushes can provide stimulation to the gums and teeth that is soothing for the child with AS. Other accommodations can include purchasing a “rainshower” shower head for a more gentle and spread-out water stream, using a baby washcloth instead of a loofah for a softer scrub, and purchasing hand soaps that foam when dispensed for a more sensory-engaging experience. The use of accommodations may make personal hygiene activities more enjoyable for children with AS.
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