Leaving the house checklist (neurodiverse families)
Transitions are hard. This checklist reduces friction by making the next step obvious and the sensory load lighter.
Pack “regulation first”
- Water + safe snack
- Comfort item / fidget
- Headphones (if helpful)
- Wipes + spare top
The exit script
“First car, then (place). Shoes on I’ll help.”
- 2 choices only
- One instruction at a time
- Celebrate micro‑wins
If it is falling apart at the door
- Reduce demands: “We can pause.”
- Offer regulation: deep pressure, movement, sip of water.
- Try again with one tiny step: “Stand up.”
Next gentle step
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