What you need to know
People with Kabuki syndrome have a higher incidence of anxiety, attention problems, obsessive-compulsive traits, and autistic behaviors. However, although they may have autistic like behaviors and/or sensory processing disorder, many will not be officially diagnosed with autism.
- Language delays
- Difficulty waiting their turn
- Interruptions
- Self-talk
- Repetition of questions
- Poor eye contact
- Understanding social cues
- Abstract thinking
- Short attention span
- Extra sensitive to touch and/or visual stimuli
- May dislike loud noises, smells, food tastes, and textures
- Self-stimulation behaviors
- Hand flapping
- Head shaking
- Rocking
- Repeating phrases
- Self-injurious behaviors
- Head banging
- Biting self
- Very oral (biting on non food items)
- Music
- Many enjoy music and rhythm
- Play
- Like to play or do the same thing over and over
- Enjoy playing with younger kids
What you can do
- Many children with KS will sometimes exhibit some autistic-like behaviors
- Whether or not they have an autism diagnosis, the types of interventions and therapies may be the same
- Structure, routine, and preparation for change are all helpful
- Calming activities
- Clear concrete plans and visual cues (i.e. visual sign for quiet)
- Proactive behavioral plans that include goals, rewards, and consequences for appropriate behavior
- Seating in back section of room and/or allow seating near exit.
- Structure and predictability
- Reduced level of environmental noise/sound, natural lightening, and avoidance of crowded areas.
- Predictable transitions and signal with visual cues
- Non-verbal cues and feedback
- Role playing the behavioral consequences
- Alternative to stressful events
- Breaks and downtime if needed
- Work on conversational skills and friendships