Going to the movies can be a challenge with a child on the autism spectrum because of all of the sensory input and the need to have 'quiet hands and feet.' To have a successful experience the two most important aspects most parents already know to have are practice and patience.
This is easier said than done most of the time, but nothing ventured, nothing gained.
Practice at free movies
United Artists and AMC theaters have free movies throughout the summer, and occasionally during other times of the year, or they will have discounted $1.00-1.50 movies. This is an excellent way to practice since the high price of movie tickets is not a factor.
Check with your local movie theaters, or suggest that they offer these types of events.
Bring a therapist or second set of hands
If your child is receiving behavior or occupational therapy in the home, request some community outing days to have the help. Even a patient, understanding friend or relative would be of use to help take some of the "abuse" sometimes given by the child, which helps keep the parent stay in control and at peace.
Bring snacks to the movie
Snacks can be used as reinforcers and for keeping blood sugar stabilized. Most movie theaters do not have appropriate snacks for children that have to watch their diet or have food allergies. Even though it is frowned upon by the theater, having a small bag of something the child can actually eat is useful. You can always buy your own drink or snack, and perhaps suggest to the theater to have snacks everyone can enjoy.
Bring a fidget toy and/or sensory tools
Fidget toys are a great addition to your autism arsenal. Bring a quiet toy that the child can fidget with if he or she is getting anxious to help keep stress at bay. One of the reasons why movies can be so troublesome is because it is an anxiety-provoking situation that the child has to sit still through. Movies are usually dark, crowded and very loud.
Some children respond to ear plugs or ear muffs, others cannot tolerate anything on their ears. At least having a koosh ball, putty or another sensory based fidget toy to relieve some stress.
Bring a great, adventurous attitude
Autism is one big adventure and journey. Many parents feel the pain of not being able to do many activities with their child. It can be very sad and frustrating--trying, though, is the only way to ever make any progress.
The work load maybe much greater than with a typical child adjusting to being in a theater but if this one thing can be conquered, it can be added to the list of possible activities. That list at some point may have been small, as all lists are when we begin them, but eventually with patience and persistence it will get longer.
Christina Dagnelli - non-fiction writer with 200+ published articles. Little Squares with Colors: A Different way to Look at Autism is a memoir about her ...
