Doing stuff "childish" is okay and even good actually
- If using plates and silverware meant for kids means you will eat more often and/or find more joy out of eating, good! *
- If using a divided plate means you are going to feel more comfortable eating, good!
- If having a water bottle with your favorite character/show on it means you are going to drink more water, good!
- If having children's toothbrushes and toothpaste means you are going to brush your teeth more often, good!
- If watching tooth brushing videos aimed at kids makes brushing more enjoyable/helps prompt you to brush correctly, good!
- If taking a stuffed animal or other toy out with you means you are going to feel a little safer, good!
- If using a nightlight (esp one with characters on it) makes you feel safer and helps you sleep better, good!
- If you find coloring in books made for children/simpler pictures more enjoyable, good!
- If decorating your living space with "childish" things with characters or bright colors is going to make your space more enjoyable/usable, good!
- If using organization systems and prompts aimed at children is going to help you actually use them, good!
- If you enjoy media aimed at children, and it brings you joy and makes your days a little easier, good!
No matter what your age is, you are allowed to use the things that bring joy into your life or make your life easier to manage. You do not need to "grow up" or "do it like an adult". You can do it in whatever way works best for you. There should be no shame in it. I think some of us want to beat the allegations that autism makes us more "childlike" thinking it makes us more palatable, when having "age-inappropriate interests" are a commonly known trait. It is normal to have autistic traits when you have autism. You don't need to hide it or pretend you don't. Yes I know not all autistics are interested in this stuff either but that's not my focus
* also there have been studies done that people tend to absorb more nutrition from foods they enjoy, so you are doing yourself a huge favor by making eating fun!
