I don’t think I would experience a problem with the “pack a snack” request because I have one bag I know where the snack cupboard is, but I still have a problem with “I’m going to change your work shifts” or “Go left at this road”
Oh yeah, that was just an example. When I’m trying to explain something I try to use a simple example to highlight the point I’m trying to make.
Having your work shifts changed isn’t the same as lack of specificity in directions, it’s a change to your routine. While a different thing, changes to routine are a source of huge stress for most autistics. IF there is going to be a change to my routine, I need to know about it about a week in advance or longer, otherwise I will FREAK OUT, and most likely cancel on The Thing, whatever it is.
I’ve had to work jobs in the past where my schedule was different every week, like given to you on Friday for the following week, and that was okay, but once I had the schedule, if you tried to change it, I would Freak. Out. I mean, anyone would if they had made plans around that schedule but for me that didn’t matter, even if I had no plans at all, DO NOT CHANGE THE THING, IT WAS WRITTEN IN INK, IT IS PERMANENT NOW.
As far as directions when I’m driving, I tell the person “Give me the next direction” immediately after completing the first one, so I have as much time as possible to prepare for it. And I tell them “If you tell me too late, then I will miss the turn.” And I do. And then they learn to tell me sooner, lol.
