Congratulations! You just finished Module 1
This week, we have introduced you to LUNA, its goal and how to use it. We have also told you about anxiety and encouraged you to think with your child about which fears or anxieties they have that they would like to work on. You’ve also met with Sally and Neil who will accompany you and your child in this journey. Going through LUNA and working on anxiety is not an easy process. Team effort is the way to go! Help your child understand that LUNA will help them learn to manage their fears and let them enjoy the things they want to enjoy.
This week, we have also talked about anxiety in general, how autistic kids can experience anxiety in unique ways and how anxiety can interact with other emotional problems and behaviors. Below are some summary points to take away:
- Everyone experiences anxiety.
- Anxiety can be helpful, but too much anxiety can become a problem.
- It can be hard for kids to understand they are feeling anxious and let others know about it. LUNA teaches kids how to communicate their feelings as well.
- Setting goals is difficult, but it is also very important. Use the Setting Goals worksheet to keep track of your goals for your child.
- Goals should be specific, measurable and achievable.
- Autistic children can experience anxiety in different ways. Sometimes, they might have special fears like fear of beards or toilets. They can also have worries about following their schedules. They also might worry about social situations due to their past negative experiences or not understanding how to act in social situations.
Over the next week:
- Continue to think about your goals for your child and make sure they are specific, measurable and achievable. Keep track of them using the Setting Goals worksheet and be sure to refer to them often!
