A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a child who has autism spectrum disorder. Which of the following intervention is recommended?

Children with autism spectrum disorder often engage in repetitive, stereotyped motor movements or vocalizations commonly referred to as "stimming" or tics. Current evidence-based guidance acknowledges that these self-stimulatory behaviors frequently serve a sensory-regulation function, and caregivers are advised not to forcibly stop them unless the behavior is harmful to the child or others. Interrupting these behaviors without understanding their purpose can increase anxiety and agitation in a child with ASD. Ensuring a large variety of caregivers is contraindicated; children with ASD thrive on consistency and familiar faces because novel people and interactions are major sources of stress and behavioral dysregulation. A flexible schedule is likewise incorrect — predictable, structured routines are essential for children with ASD to feel safe and to reduce anxiety. While imaginative play and peer interaction are goals of therapeutic intervention, placing a child with ASD in a large group setting without structured support typically overwhelms them, as difficulty with social reciprocity and sensory overload are core features of the disorder. Small, structured peer interactions with therapeutic guidance are appropriate, not large-group imaginative play. Therefore, allowing the child to continue their tics (unless harmful) is the intervention most consistent with evidence-based ASD care.