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Real members of MyAutismTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

How much should I encourage my son's desire to collect things?

A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Ellenton, FL

My son is a collector. Recently he's become borderline obsessed with getting all of the Bear books that Chic Fil A is giving in the kid's meals. Today we went to get a kid's meal, and even though they are still advertising the bear books, they had a different toy. This, of course, caused a meltdown. The manager very kindly found another Bear book for Ben, but my mom thinks I should have put my foot down and said no more, and that sometimes in life we don't get the whole set. I see her point… read more

July 24, 2014
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Answer Summary

Members shared thoughtful perspectives on how much to encourage collecting habits in children with autism, agreeing that the original... Read more

Members shared thoughtful perspectives on how much to encourage collecting habits in children with autism, agreeing that the original situation was handled well since the book was advertised and the trade happened calmly. Several members described their own children's collections, from rocks and sticks to wrappers and vintage items, and noted that ABA and OT therapists often encourage collections when they bring joy and cause no harm. A recurring theme was finding balance, validating feelings while teaching flexibility, and watching whether the obsession brings more anxiety than happiness.

A MyAutismTeam Member

I would encourage it. I was told my our OT and ABA therapists to encourage his collections and obsessions (ABC's, numbers and planets for my guy). I was also told, if it makes him happy and does not hurt anyone else, by all means encourage what he enjoys!

July 25, 2014
A MyAutismTeam Member

This is such a tough situation. My son has similar obsessive interests - especially with specific items or routines. What helped us was validating his feelings while gently setting boundaries. We created a visual schedule so he knew when he could get his special items, and we celebrated when he handled changes well. It's about finding balance between supporting his passions and teaching flexibility. The meltdown over the missing book was probably more about the unexpected change than the book itself.

April 23
A MyAutismTeam Member

I would not have given in to the meltdown, but if my DD had calmed down and asked the manager nicely for the book, I would've allowed him to give it to her. Our ABA therapists are working on trying to nip tantrums in the bud, so DD is used to being told, "you can say that better." She knows the drill by now and it really does work to calm her down.

July 24, 2014
A MyAutismTeam Member

...and I'm just realizing the OP was from 2014! I wonder why so many older posts keep popping up like they were just posted. I don't mind commenting, but I feel silly now because who knows if this is even relevant to the OP anymore, lol?

April 23
A MyAutismTeam Member

@A MyAutismTeam Member that's too sweet! ❤️

April 23

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