When taking the autistic child to the movies, don’t forget these essential items:
1. A blanket. Not just any blanket. One big enough for him to curl up under and one heavy enough to give him tactile input.
2. A bribe, so he sits through the entire movie. Item #1 might negate the need for item #2.
3. A blanket. Yes, this is important enough to bear mentioning twice. Perhaps more than twice. Also, make sure it can be easily washed. Movie theatres are notoriously dirty.
4. Snacks, preferable a variety.
On the other hand, the eldest did very well. Covered his eyes during the Terminator previews (he is petrified that a terminator is coming to get him) but otherwise no incidents. He wanted to see a different movie, but we think he liked Star Trek – he just don’t admit it. Left Eshiva home with my dad where she got the special treat of watching Harry Potter (#2 – the one with the Phoenix, as she said lol) and taking a bath in Zaide’s giant bath tub. Special girl!
I had to fix the tub before we left, and clean it out. No one has used it in like, four years. I had to reset the faucet and tighten the screw. That’s it. Who knew? I also wrapped some PTFE tape around just to be safe (just below the o-ring, not over it). Good as new!
Yah, some people say don’t leave home without a towel. I say don’t leave home without a blanket. Preferably a weighted one… I may have to look into buying/making one specifically for things like this.
