VIDEO: Autism Action Partnership (AAP) has made efforts to give law enforcement agencies all the resources they need to interact the right way with people diagnosed with autism.
From things like a stress ball to sensory toys, the sensory kits are designed to be a tool in first responders’ vehicles. The items in them can help reduce stimulus sensory response of those with autism.
“We also have headphones in there so if the noise of the event that is happening or whatever is happening is too much, they can give them headphones, we have sunglasses, we also have laminated communication cards that has pictures of different scenarios, there’s a clock, the alphabet,” said AAP Education & Outreach Manager, Wendy Andersen.
If the individuals are non-verbal, or if they are not speaking due to the event that’s happening, they can communicate through some of the items on the kit.