As caregivers, therapists, and educators, we often feel torn between compassion and setting firm boundaries when supporting autistic children. It’s natural to want children to feel validated and understood, but how do we balance that with helping them develop important social skills, including handling those tough "have-to" tasks?
In our latest video, Susan Golubock, an autistic retired occupational therapist, tackles this very question. Susan brings her unique perspective to this complex topic, sharing why holding children accountable while offering compassion is not only possible—it’s essential.
Susan eloquently puts it: "Everyone wants to feel understood and validated, but there are certain social rules that have to be learned. Compassion doesn't mean excusing aggression—it means helping children find better ways to handle tough situations." This quote gets to the heart of why accountability is so important: it helps children navigate social boundaries while also honoring their feelings.
In the video, Staci and Susan dive into strategies for:
Shifting from emotional responses to logical problem-solving
Finding alternatives to behaviors like aggression by uncovering the reasons behind the response
Supporting children’s needs while holding them accountable in safe, constructive ways
They emphasize that true compassion isn’t about letting things slide but about guiding children to learn healthier responses. This conversation offers practical advice for parents, therapists, and caregivers on how to help autistic children meet expectations without compromising their sense of understanding and connection.
If you're interested in learning how to balance empathy and accountability to create a more supportive environment for autistic children, this video is a must-watch. You'll walk away with a fresh perspective and actionable insights that you can apply right away.
Ready to dive in? Watch the full conversation below....
Get the FREEBIE on problem-solving that Susan talks about HERE
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