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A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭

My son has none (no iPad and no tablet and no iPhone)! and only little bit of tv

March 27
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A MyAutismTeam Member

Me and Ash both do a lot screen time as it's soothing for us. iPad/ phones

April 4
A MyAutismTeam Member

I am the Adult child (no kids) but here is what I read Artpower

https://www.marcus.org/autism-resources/autism-...

https://childmind.org/article/screens-and-neuro...

Key Impacts of Screen Time on Autism:
Sensory Processing: High screen exposure is associated with increased sensory issues, with some children experiencing overstimulation or, conversely, using screens to manage under-stimulation.
Emotional Regulation: Excessive, unregulated screen time can cause increased stress, heightened emotional dysregulation, and tantrums.
Social Interaction: While some digital tools can help with communication, too much screen time often leads to social isolation, hindering the development of real-world social skills.
Sleep Patterns: Screen time, especially near bedtime, suppresses melatonin and causes significantly more sleep disruption for children with autism.

Management Recommendations:
Gradual Reduction: Gradually reduce screen time, starting by eliminating it during specific times like meals or 30–60 minutes before bed.
Prioritize Quality: Focus on educational or skill-building content over passive viewing, and co-view with the child when possible.
Structured Activities: Replace screen time with structured play, physical activity, or hobbies, which can help manage behaviors and reduce dependency, say experts at the Marcus Autism Center.
Be Consistent: Create a consistent daily schedule for screen use rather than allowing unlimited access, according to researchers at the National Institutes of Health.

Managing Screen Time | Marcus Autism Center
Managing Screen Time | Marcus Autism Center
https://childmind.org/article/screens-and-neurodivergent-kids/
March 27
MyAutismTeam

How much screen time does your child or adult child have?

It sounds like you're keeping screen time very minimal for your son, which is a personal choice many families make. Every family approaches technology differently based on what works best for their child.

Some MyAutismTeam members have found that certain devices Show Full Answer

How much screen time does your child or adult child have?

It sounds like you're keeping screen time very minimal for your son, which is a personal choice many families make. Every family approaches technology differently based on what works best for their child.

Some MyAutismTeam members have found that certain devices can be helpful tools for communication and learning. For example, some families use iPads with communication apps to help nonverbal children express themselves, or to assist with homework when handwriting is challenging.

Other families use technology for specific therapeutic purposes:
- AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) devices for nonverbal children
- iPads with apps like Proloquo2Go for communication support
- Typing homework instead of handwriting when fine motor skills are difficult
- Calendar apps to help with organization and scheduling

The key is finding what works for your family and your son's specific needs. There's no one-size-fits-all approach to screen time with autism. Some children benefit from technology as a learning or communication tool, while others do better with minimal screens.

What matters most is that you're making intentional choices that support your son's development and well-being.

March 27

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A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Irvine, CA