When he gets like that, wrap him snugly in a blanket. Autistic kids like the sensation of being squeezed (it's not abuse...just be sure he can breathe and get out of it if he wants). Also, if he's agitated when he's doing it...try to see if you've moved stuff around...they like familiarity and anything that breaks from routine can set them off. They like repitition so give him something he can do instead of head banging...a plastic plate he can spin around, a ball he can bounce, etc.
Oh...the helmet is certainly a good temporary solution but he might get attached to it so I'd try alternatives before resorting to the helmet.
You should really talk to a specialist on Autistic kids. Their needs are very different from other kids and it's easy to misunderstand what they want and need.
2006-08-28 06:15:53
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answer #1
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answered by spindoccc 4
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I also have a 9 year old autistic boy but luckily he's not into headbanging. As others have mentioned, something is triggering this behaviour. You really nead to observe him closely to establish the reason. Like many parents of autistic children, you learn to predict imminent behaviour so what works for me is to divert his attention from the cause before he can react. Also when he does do it, just hold him tight until he calms down so he can't harm himself, without saying anything. Ok so the helmet is for safety reasons but I don't think it's the answer. Good luck anyway!
2006-08-29 07:36:14
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answer #2
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answered by Kathleen 2
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This is common with autistic children and some children with learning difficulties. You can get a special helmet for him.
You should seek out a local parents' support group, as having an autistic child can be very trying as well as wonderful in its own way.
2006-08-28 13:16:11
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answer #3
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answered by Trish D 5
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Head banging is quite common with this condition and without being rude, a helmet may help in the short term. There are thousands of sites out there to help you with your childs condition and your GP should help too. Don't rely on a site like this to help you, get professional help. Autistic children are often very gifted too. Try and channel your child's energy elsewhere rather than becoming overwraught by this stage.
2006-08-28 13:17:28
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answer #4
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answered by helen p 4
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Autism is not such a rare phenomenon. There are groups that will offer you and your spouse/other guardian alternatives and options to help you deal with the situation. Search around for a support group. The benefits are many.
Your child is probably making an effort to communicate, and is unable to... can you imagine how frustrating it must be for him?
Until such time as the child is able to communicate, get a helmet, as suggested, to prevent injuries. That's all you can do now. Good luck and best wishes.
2006-08-28 13:20:24
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answer #5
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answered by Anonymous
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I agree with Glass get him a helmet fast. And something is definately upsetting him. Elliminate things in his enviroment slowely till you can pinpoint the cause of the stimulis. Could it be the birds are making an unusual amount of racket? Excess traffic where you live? This could also be a phase talk to his Dr. and definately get that helmet.
2006-08-28 13:18:32
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answer #6
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answered by Coyote 4
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First off, a support group would probably be a great advantage to you and your son. Second, it would be a good idea to discuss this with your Dr., but until then, find out what is frustrating him to this point if you can, and try to alleviate it! I know its hard, but try to keep him in something that settles him, something you know he enjoys. It may come to the point that he needs to wear some type of protection, and until then, all you can do is the best you can. You know him better than anyone! Good luck and well wishes!
2006-08-28 13:18:10
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answer #7
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answered by sultrylilmomma 2
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It would probebly be a good idea to get him a helmet and see a doctor about what else you can do. you could try to redirect him and get him to do somthing more preductive, or less harfull. perhaps keep a pillow handy and when he tryes to head bang the pavment hand him the pillow or slip it between his head and the pavment. I wish i could help you more. good luck.
2006-08-28 13:21:33
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answer #8
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answered by midesweet 3
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Sorry to hear about that,but I don't think you will find the help you need in answers. You need to contact a specialist about the condition of your son.
Good luck,mate
2006-08-28 13:17:33
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answer #9
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answered by Anonymous
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Go the doctor and see if there is a local group for Autism where you can share your feelings.
2006-08-28 13:10:04
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answer #10
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answered by brogdenuk 7
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