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A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Lexington Fayette, KY

My sons teacher has been putting headphones on my son at school, it bothers me some. He does cover his eas when stressed. She says it helps him focus better. When I saw him in class it appeared to me it just made him look different than the others

April 4, 2013
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Answer Summary

Members overwhelmingly supported the use of headphones for children with autism, especially those with sensory sensitivities to sound, with... Read more

Members overwhelmingly supported the use of headphones for children with autism, especially those with sensory sensitivities to sound, with many sharing that headphones or earplugs have been transformative tools for helping their own children focus, stay calm, and participate more fully in school, church, and public events. Several members recommended meeting with the teacher and IEP team to understand when and why the headphones are being used, ensuring they serve as a helpful accommodation rather than a permanent crutch, and working toward a plan where the child can eventually decide when they need them. A recurring theme was prioritizing the child's comfort and well-being over concerns about appearing different, with parents emphasizing that most people are understanding and that helping a child feel safe and regulated is far more important than fitting in.

A MyAutismTeam Member

Headphones are appropriate for my son some of the time (when we go to concerts, Broadway plays, sporting events, etc,) but we try to keep it to a minimum.

April 13, 2013
A MyAutismTeam Member

My 15 year old son couldn't live without his noise canceling headphones.

April 6, 2013
A MyAutismTeam Member

@A MyAutismTeam Member I totally agree . . . you have to do what is bes for your child. If if makes them more comfortable and calm, it is worth it. Most people are understanding of the situation.

April 6, 2013 (edited)
A MyAutismTeam Member

My son who is 19, is very hyper and sensitive to sound and loud noises. When I came across headphones on another student I talked to the teacher about and thought maybe this may help him muffled the sounds in his ears. WOW! If the answer to Autism would be this easy! What a difference it made, his reactions to sound is very minimal, we now can even stay in church threw the whole service without having to leave like before. People understand, they just think he's listening to music. Sometimes you can't avoid keeping the attention off of you. So pick your battles.

April 6, 2013
A MyAutismTeam Member

If you don't want him to feel out of place, you could recommend ear plugs if he could tolerate them.

April 5, 2013

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