A preference for repetition, predictability and routine may present as a barrier to learning in the following ways:
- difficulties predicting and processing change
- difficulties thinking of and using alternatives to situations or problems
- a need to feel 'in control' of activities and interactions which may be interpreted as bullying, controlling or demanding behaviour
- literal and visual interpretation of language and information
- repetitive questioning and repetitive topics of conversation and play themes
- avoidance of new or different activities or interactions
- perseveration or difficulties changing tasks, topics or themes
- poor generalisation skills or the ability to apply knowledge or information to different activities, situations or interactions
- difficulties with regulation of self including managing emotions
- a preoccupation with specific information or themes
- attending to insignificant details that result in difficulties attending to the main source of information in the learning environment.