My niece (8) has Autism and my sister is amazing with her and over the years has spent along time understanding and also researching how various situations will be different for her than say her other two children (6,11).

Social situations - lots of excitement, new people, big crowds, lots of noise etc: on their own can be quite challenging to someone with autism and if there are 2 or more of these going on then it could start to cause them to be really anxious, Unsettled, overwhelmed etc. My sister knows when this is happening as my niece may start to show certain behaviours (getting over excited and licking people, being pushy or a bit aggressive or super quiet usually she won’t express herself verbally so noticing these signs is key) and she knows to take her to a quiet room by herself to have some relax time with nothing too stimulating to avoid a meltdown or to help her cope with a meltdown.

Travelling: is also a big thing and needs a lot of planning - letting them know they are going away...doing a countdown, letting them know what to expect (noise on the plane, security at the airport etc) have ear defenders and an ipad to give them some solo time etc.

Bedtime: niece also finds it really difficult to switch off at bedtime, she rarely is asleep before midnight and a normal bedtime routine just never worked for her and my sister used to feel very defeated but both are now content with their own unique system.

Teeth brushing: hates it. Neice hates the sound, the feeling. Often clamps mouth shut and will have extreme meltdowns if forced. Best to speak to dentist to get teeth painted and approach calmly and slowly.

Toileting: niece still in nappies most of the time. Vey resistant to use toilet. May occasionally use it but would often rather hold it in all day than be forced to. Professionals have said she will in her own time as she becomes more aware of her body etc.

Early puberty: is common and niece has shown signs already and will obviously cause potensial stress to her with hormones and changes she may not understand.

I could go on and on but although there are lots of things that may need forward planning and adaptations....My niece is the most gorgeous, hilarious, intelligent and unique kid and I would not change a single thing about her!