I think I would be taking meedee’s advice if your daughter is having problems with change. Most children I have known are very excited about a new car, new clothes, school, etc. Good luck.

I remember when we had to get a new card simply because we were having twins. My oldest was beside herself in tears until we told her the car was hers! She really thought it was her car and was so excited to get the car.

Awww! This is so sweet! I Definitely understand the difficult position you are in and I too remember feeling sad saying goodbye to our family cars. I think it’s perfectly normal for her to feel this way and you are obviously a very caring and supportive parent so she will be fine. Reassure her that it’s okay to be sad. Maybe you can take her for a visit to see/sit in the new car and get her excited for it. Take a photo of the old car for her to keep or find something small to remember it by. Your daughter sounds like a very sweet little girl and it’s sad that she has to feel this way but with you there to support her and reassure her that it’s okay to be sad and that you are sad to say goodbye to it aswell she won’t be alone and she will be learning valuable ways to cope and go through change. I find having something to look forward to can help with change, perhaps she can look forward to a drive in the new car to somewhere special. Goodluck and enjoy your new car

Kids may not be able to handle the big emotions that can come with transitions. And they might learn that by stalling, they get to avoid the change for a bit longer. Transitions are often especially hard for kids with emotional or developmental issues. It can help to visualise the upcoming change.

Change can indeed be quite difficult for children and good books and stories on change can help with dealing with and managing change. Maybe look for books and stories in libraries and bookshops. Maybe a small toy car as token car to keep and enjoy and have as a special memory.

She must love your old car or is she like this with all changes? It’d be a good idea to sit down and talk about change as there will be plenty more changes to come in the future whilst growing up

Im interested in the “not liking change” aspect. Is she very stuck in her ways with everything. Likes everything in its place, same routine daily, same foods, doesnt like going to new places, etc? This might be somethign you want to start noting down in a diary and discuss it with your Doc next time you are there. I work with special needs children and this is something that is a strong part of the makeup of many children with Autisum. Obviously its not just one thing that defines it but it might be worth keeping an eye on.

Maybe you could do a good bye ritual; like washing the car, making pictures from your daughter in the car and then giving them a place in her room. You could do the same with the new car; wash it together, place some favourite / personal items in the car and welcome the car into your family. Mkae plans to what lovely places this car would bring you along.

Maybe you could have a little goodbye send off for your old car, and talk about all the adventures you’ll have in the new car. Let her express her emotions, comfort and try to explain the positives.