Choose a dry, windless day to prime and paint your mailbox. If it is too damp or humid, the paint may not cure properly. If it is too windy, dust and debris can get caught in the paint. Paint will dry the fastest on a hot day but don't choose a day that's too hot. Then, the paint twill dry too quickly and you'll end up with a bad finish. The best place to work would be outside. If you cannot work outdoors, then be sure to leave a window open so that you do not get a headache. If you get a headache while painting at any time, step away from your project and take a back. Return to your project once the headache goes away. Choose an outdoor quality spray paint primer that is intended for metal. It does not matter what color your use, but a medium grey seems to give you the most neutral base to work on. Hold the can 6 to 8 inches (c to c centimeters) away from the surface, and apply the paint using light, even strokes. Spray using a side-to-side motion. Over lap each stroke by a little bit; this will help prevent any gaps. If you are planning on painting something that is currently covered up (like the flag) wait until you are completely done priming and painting the mailbox. Paint the entire mailbox first, then open the flap and paint the rim that's normally covered up by the flap. Wait until the paint dries before you close the flap, or it will get glued shut. If you weren't able to remove the flag, you will have to paint around the flag. Do this by painting the mailbox, then moving the flag, and painting the bare patch that was underneath. It is better to apply multiple thin coats than one thick coat. Not only does this give you a smoother finish, but it prevents any drips and puddles. Choose an outdoor quality spray paint that is meant for metal. Hold the can 6 to 8 inches (c to c centimeters) away from the surface, apply a light, even coat using a side-to-side motion. Overlap each stroke by a little to prevent any gaps. As before, paint the mail box once with the flap closed, and once with the flap open. Never close the flap while the paint is wet, or it will get stuck. If you left the flag on, remember to move the flag up and down as you paint, so that you get the areas under it. Allow each coat to dry before applying a second or third one. If you don't wait for the paint to dry, it may not cure properly, and result in a sticky, tacky finish. Spray them with your primer first. Once the primer dries, apply your outdoor spray paint. You can match the color to your mailbox, of you can experiment with different colors. For example, if you painted your mailbox white, try painting the latches and hooks black, and the flag a bright red. If the parts are loose, simply set them down onto a plastic tablecloth or masking paper. Be sure to flip them over so that you can get the back too. If the parts are still on the mailbox, then pull off any painters tape and plastic bags. Make sure that the paint on the mailbox is dry, then wrap the mailbox in masking paper or plastic, but leave the hooks, latches, and flag exposed. Wait until the paint dries before removing the paper/plastic from your mailbox. Just because a paint is dry to the touch does not necessarily mean that it is fully cured and dry underneath. Refer to the label on your paint can for specific drying times. Some paints require only 2 to 4 hours to dry and cure, while others may need anywhere from 6 to 72 hours. Keep in mind that both temperature and humidity levels will affect drying times. Paint will dry faster when the air is dry, and it will dry slower when the air is humid. Get out the screws from before, and screw everything back on tightly. Make sure that it is facing the right way and hanging straight.
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One-sentence summary -- Check the weather conditions. Work outside or in a well-ventilated area. Apply spray paint primer to the mailbox. Wait for the primer to dry before applying a second coat. Apply the first coat of spray paint once the primer driers. Allow the paint to dry before applying a second and third coat. Prime and paint the flag, hooks, and latches. Let the paint on all parts dry completely before moving on. Attach the flag, hooks, and latches back onto the mailbox. Screw the mailbox back onto the wall or post.

It's normal for autistic people to stim or attach themselves to certain objects or subject matters. Don't teach your child that it's wrong to stim or enjoy special interests, because it stunts their emotional growth and makes them feel ashamed and afraid to show their true selves. Special interests can help build confidence and expertise. They may even turn into a great career someday. Many autistic children thrive when they have a regular, predictable routine. Knowing when they will eat, play, learn, and sleep makes the day less frightening, overwhelming, and unpredictable. This helps relieve anxiety and the meltdowns that can follow it. Implementing a new routine can be difficult, so be patient. It will take some time for your child to understand the routine and realize that it will remain the same or similar every day. Explain the routine to your child, and use a picture schedule to help them predict events. Your persistence will pay off once the routine feels natural and internalized, your child will feel better. Keep this play relaxed and child-directed, and let your child play as they want to play even if this play is somewhat unusual or repetitive. For example, if your child likes buttons, give them a handful of them to play with, and join in if possible. Older autistic children may enjoy setting up their toys in scenes. Toys such as Legos can be good choices for an autistic child. Some autistic children respond very well to music. If you notice a lot of anxious behavior, try playing something soft and pleasant. Doing so may help your child relax. Incorporating a brief massage into your child's daily routine may help promote relaxation. This massage doesn't have to be professional you can perform it yourself! Recognize that your child is doing their best with the limited resources they have. If your child feels chastised or attacked, he or she will likely retreat to a solitary world. Therefore, it's best to stay warm, kind, and positive, even if you feel frustrated. When chiding your child, remain compassionate and reassuring, giving your child time to calm down afterwards. Assume that your child is struggling, not intentionally misbehaving. For example, instead of "my child won't tell me what's wrong," think "my child can't tell me what's wrong." This attitude can help you focus on helping, instead of punishing. Tell your child that they are just as important as other members of the family, and follow through on your words by treating your child with love, respect, and generosity. When children feel secure, they are less likely to need the rigid and repetitive habits. Make sure your child knows that you love them, autism and all.
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One-sentence summary --
Accept their repetitive behaviors and desire for routine and consistency. Stick to a routine. Play with your child often. Try music. Consider massage therapy. Keep a positive attitude. Make sure your child feels valued.