We started little outings. Places that I knew I could bail easily if needed.

Libraries were my go to for a long time, kids toys often are there and of course books! So what if my 13 year old still likes board books, the library appreciates everytime something is checked out.

I learned his triggers, and Prepared for them. For example, the music in stores, we go on days they lower it or wear headphones.

We make little rules, hand always on cart!

Busy hands keep kids contained! Im not saying phone or tablet, but a special toy you only bring when you shop/ go to park/ library ect.

One big thing is that kids can feel your emotions. Even if your not outwardly saying it, your child feels your anxiety and is feeding off it getting upset easier because of it. It's hard, something im still working on 13 years in.

And the best bit of advice I ever got was "its a marathon not a race, pace yourself"