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Going to the park, the grocery, or out to eat?  All of these community outings can be challenging for your child with autism spectrum disorder.  Although these outings might be challenging, they expose your child as well as yourself to many experiences.  The following are tips on how you can prepare for such outings:

1. Make a schedule for that day or for the specific outing.  This can be done by pictures or a written list.
2. Give your child appropriate tasks to do throughout the outing.  For example, if you are at the grocery store have your child help with checking off items on the grocery list or picking out items.
3. Make sure to start off with short trips and gradually increase the time as your child gets familiar with the environment.
4. Bring along toys or other preferred items for your child.  These can be used for car rides or for when your child needs a break.
5. Go to familiar places, especially those that have been accommodating to the needs of the child and the family.

Other Resources:

• https://www.autismspeaks.org
• The Child with Autism at Home and in the Community: Over 600 Must-have Tips for Making Home Life and Outings Easier Kathy Labosh, LaNita Miller; Future Horizons.
• Everyday Activities to Help Your Young Child with Autism Live Life to the Fullest Debra C. Jacobs; Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
• Get Out, Explore, and Have Fun!: How Families of Children With Autism or Asperger Syndrome Can Get the Most Out of Community Activities Lisa Jo Rudy; Jessica Kingsley Publishers.