Hi I’m new to this board and I am after some advice. My 7 yr old daughter has ASD and is taking Risperdel and Endep.

I had gotten her to a stage where she would wear clothes all the time but of late getting her to wear more than just her underwear at home has become a major battle, (which if it was only when she is inside wouldn’t be too bad, but it is also when she is out in the street playing with the other kids) her speech has also deteriorated, as well as her behaviour. Her need and want to be constantly in the bath is starting to worry me as well.

The problems started around the time of the last school holidays so I was thinking that it may have been just that her routine had been broken and that things might improve after returning to school, but they haven’t.

Is regression common or is this something that I should be concerned about?

Hi;

Regression is very common for our kids especially when there is a change in the routine. You will need to regain control of that situation regardless of what the tantruming will be like. You will need to force her to wear the clothes and use a lot of reinforcers and praise when it is happening. When she is refusing, you should not give a lot of attention but rather take charge with out saying much to her. Put the clothes back on her and if she tantrums, tell her it's okay to cry but remove yourself from the room. Do not give feedback to her for the negative behavior.

It's hard but does work. Lots of praise and reinforce the positive behavior and absolutely no attention to the negative behavior with the exception of putting her clothes back on her. It will seem slow, but does work.

Good Luck