For many autistic children, routines are a foundation for feeling safe and secure in their environment. A daily routine offers predictability, lowers anxiety, and helps children develop independence. One simple but meaningful task that can be turned into a routine is making the bed.
It might seem like a small thing, but creating a bed-making routine can build important life skills while boosting a child’s confidence. With the right support and preparation, children with autism can learn to take pride in this daily habit.
Here, we’ll walk you through how to introduce and support a bed-making routine in a gentle, practical way.
Why Routines Matter for Autistic Children
Children with autism often thrive when there is a clear, predictable structure in place. A routine gives them something to count on. It removes the stress of uncertainty, helps with transitions, and makes daily life more manageable.
A bed-making routine fits naturally into the day. It teaches responsibility, encourages physical coordination, and offers a sense of accomplishment. It can also become a calming activity that starts or ends the day on a positive note.
More importantly, it gives the child a moment to take control of their space. In a world that often feels confusing or overwhelming, this can be incredibly empowering.
Here are just a few reasons why routines like this are especially helpful:
- Create a Sense of Security: Knowing what comes next in the day lowers anxiety.
- Support Skill Building: Step-by-step tasks help children practice focus and coordination.
- Encourage Independence: When children learn to complete tasks on their own, their self-esteem grows.
- Promote Emotional Stability: Familiar routines can offer comfort during stressful moments.
How to Prepare for a Bed-Making Routine
Before you begin the routine, it helps to make sure everything is in place to support success. Preparation can make a big difference, especially for children who are sensitive to sensory input or get distracted easily.
Start by looking at the environment where the routine will take place. Try to make it calm and inviting. You want the space to feel safe, simple, and clear of distractions.
Here are a few things you can do to set up the space:
- Make sure the area around the bed is tidy and free of clutter.
- Keep bedding and any tools like pillows or blankets within easy reach.
- Try to keep the room quiet or use soft background sounds that are calming.
- Adjust the temperature so the space feels comfortable.
Once the space feels ready, the next step is making sure the child understands what is going to happen. Communication is key. Use short, clear sentences. You can also add visual tools like picture cards, diagrams, or a step-by-step checklist to help explain what comes next.
That said, the best way to introduce bed making is to break the task into simple, repeatable steps. Keep it manageable and don’t rush the process. Some children may want to start with just one or two steps and build from there. That’s a great approach.
Here’s an example of how the routine might look:
- Take off any toys or extra items from the bed.
- Straighten the bottom sheet if it is messy.
- Pull the top sheet over the bed evenly.
- Place the pillows back in their spot.
- Add blankets or comforters if needed.
- Smooth out any wrinkles and do a final check.
You can show each step first, then invite the child to try. Use the same wording each time if possible, so it becomes familiar. For example, you might always say, “Now we smooth the sheet” or “Time to fluff the pillow.”
If the child feels comfortable, let them try one step at a time. At first, they might only want to hand you a pillow or help you pull the blanket. That’s okay. Each step they participate in is a win.
Gradually, you can increase their involvement. First, they watch you do it. Next, they help you do it. Eventually, they do it with less help.
Stay close and offer support as needed. This might be verbal encouragement, gentle guidance, or simply being nearby for reassurance—especially during times of developmental transition, like puberty, which we explore more deeply in our article Guide to Supporting Autism Through Puberty.
Working Through Challenges and Staying Flexible
Some days might be harder than others. That’s completely normal. If your child resists the routine or becomes upset, try to stay calm and gentle. Ask yourself what might be causing the resistance. Maybe they’re tired, distracted, or simply not in the mood.
If needed, adjust the routine. You can:
- Choose a different time of day
- Simplify the task by skipping a few steps
- Offer more help or redo the visual aids
- Give choices like “Do you want to start with pillows or blankets?”
Sometimes, bringing in something your child enjoys can make the routine feel more fun.
If challenges continue and you feel stuck, consider reaching out for help. An occupational therapist or behavioral specialist can offer tips that fit your child’s unique needs. They can help you create a custom routine and offer ways to teach skills more effectively.
Support groups for parents can also be a great place to learn from others going through similar experiences.
Final Thoughts
Creating a bed-making routine for a child with autism takes time, patience, and understanding. But with a calm environment, clear steps, and plenty of encouragement, it can become a meaningful part of the day.
Every small success matters, and over time, this simple routine can become a stepping stone toward bigger skills and greater self-esteem. At Jade ABA Therapy, we take pride in offering compassionate, individualized care that supports long-term growth for every child.
Our autism programs in Maryland are built on proven strategies and delivered by a team that truly cares. If you’re ready to see meaningful progress, contact us today so we can help your child thrive.
Sources:
