My son spends a lot of time on the same activity. What can I do to help him maintain a regular shower or meal schedule?
People with autism spectrum disorder can dedicate many hours to activities that interest them. These activities may be more or less complex, but they are certainly relaxing and enjoyable. This dedication, along with difficulty orienting themselves in time, can cause them to lose track of time and forget to perform basic tasks such as eating or showering. To help prevent this, it is important to have visual and auditory supports that orient them in time , such as calendars, schedules with pictograms, planners, etc. Fixed routines will help them vary their activities, anticipating the transition from one to another.
We must remember that each person with ASD has a specific level of functioning, and support will need to be adapted to that level. It's important that you discuss this with their therapists so you can work on it together.