5 Tips for Raising a Child With Autism

URL: https://pixabay.com/photos/happy-boy-autism-kid-childhood-3404807/

Raising a child with autism is difficult. The costly treatments, special education needs, therapy, and autistic kids’ assisted devices can strain the family finances, especially those not covered by insurance. Since each autistic child is unique, caring for them can be a full-time job for particular families. Some children may have difficulties with verbal communication. This communication challenge may compound you, the parent, with anxiety and stress.

Parenting an autistic child requires support from family, paid caregivers, and others. The lack of support leaves the parents with little to no time for socialization, hobbies, exercise, rest, and more. However, implementing the right strategies can help you and your family cope. This article discusses five tips for raising a child with autism.

1.   Start treatment immediately

Once you feel that something is wrong with your kid, don't wait to see if they'll outgrow the issue or assume they'll catch up later. Children with ASD have greater chances of treatment success if they start early. Seek immediate medical assistance. If your child shows any signs of autism spectrum disorder, you’ll likely be referred to a specialist who treats children with autism disorder, such as a child psychiatrist or psychologist, pediatric neurologist, or developmental pediatrician, for an evaluation. With the help of platforms like Encuadrado, you can find the right specialist for your autistic child.

2.   Learn more about autism

Learning more about autistic spectrum disorder equips you with the knowledge you need to make informed choices that make your child’s life easier. Learn everything you can about this disorder through online research or enroll in a short autism course and educate yourself on available treatment options. Consult non-profit and governmental organizations about autism, stay updated on recent research findings, and ensure the information sources you’re looking at are reputable.

3.   Join support ASD support groups

Raising an autistic child comes with many challenges. As such, most parents may feel isolated. Joining autism support groups can significantly help you as a parent. Through these groups, participants share information, including details about new programs or therapies, advice on engaging with various autism professionals, and experiences and stories of living with autistic kids.

The support groups are a safe platform for parents to let out their frustrations because of their emotions and be validated and understood. You can join different types of groups, including professionally-led, peer-led, educational, and family autism support groups.

4.   Focus on your child’s strengths

As a parent, you might focus more on your child's deficit areas. Nonetheless, recognizing their strengths and talents and building on them is essential. So, identify your autistic child’s abilities and strengths and use them to enhance their development. Tools such as a developmental assessment and an IQ test can help you know more about your young one’s learning and thinking skills.

5.   Take time for self-care

Parenting an autistic child can be stressful and overwhelming. Your child could be sensitive to your anxieties and stresses, intensifying their reactions. Prioritizing self-care and practicing mindfulness can help you reset and build self-compassion in high-stress times. You can exercise, go out with friends, sleep early, or go to the spa. This prevents burnout and enables you to take better care of your child.

Endnote

Taking care of an autistic child is challenging. However, implementing these tips for raising a child with autism can help make the journey easier.

ASD Level 1: Quick Facts for Teachers

"Would you have a simple summary, kind of a snapshot, that describes the most relevant aspects of ASD Level 1 that I can give my son's teacher so that she can get a basic understanding of this disorder without having to read a book on it?"

Sure! Just copy and paste the quick facts below, and give it to the teacher...

ASD Level 1:

• is a developmental disorder, not a disease or a form of genius
• affects language less, but does present with difficulties in appropriate speech and communicative development
• affects the way a child relates to others
• is a highly functional form of autism
• leads to difficulties in reading non-verbal cues
• is characterized by social interaction difficulties and impairments related to a restricted, repetitive, stereotype behavior
• is not the result of "bad parenting"
• is often confused with ADD and ADHD
• is not classified as a learning disability, but it is a disorder that impacts learning
   

Treatment:

• can help children learn how to interact more successfully with their peers
• 
  focuses on the three main symptoms: poor communication skills, obsessive or repetitive routines, and physical clumsiness
• involves medication for co-existing conditions, cognitive behavioral therapy, and social skills training
• is geared toward improving communication, social skills, and behavior management
• is not a cure, but there are a number of different interventions that have been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms associated with ASD
• mainly helps to build on the child’s interests, teaches the task as a series of simple steps, and offers a predictable schedule
• requires an interdisciplinary approach (i.e., speech pathologists, social workers, psychologists and developmental pediatricians all may be involved in treatment)
• should be tailored to meet individual needs
• strives to improve the child's abilities to interact with other people and thus to function effectively in society and be self-sufficient
• is a complex process that involves spending time with the child, gathering background information from parents and teachers, directly testing the child, and integrating information into a comprehensive picture

Facts as reported by children with ASD Level 1:

• To talk to a person with ASD may be like talking to a college professor.
• Having ASD is like being on a different planet. 
• Sometimes having ASD is really annoying because, for example, at school, I get special treatment or other people pick on me because I'm weird or different.

Resources for parents of children and teens on the autism spectrum:
 

==> How to Prevent Meltdowns and Tantrums in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

==> Parenting System that Reduces Defiant Behavior in Teens with Autism Spectrum Disorder

==> Launching Adult Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Guide for Parents Who Want to Promote Self-Reliance

==> Teaching Social-Skills and Emotion-Management to Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

==> Parenting Children and Teens with High-Functioning Autism: Parents' Comprehensive Handbook

==> Unraveling the Mystery Behind High-Functioning Autism: Audio Book

==> Crucial Research-Based Parenting Strategies for Children and Teens with High-Functioning Autism

==> Videos for Parents of Children and Teens with ASD

 

----------

 

 COMMENTS:

•    Anonymous said... I agree my 8 year old son has ASD and we just stayed in constant communication. With the teacher, principal and assistant principal. They all were wonderful with my son. We take each day as it comes. The one problem we have is what sets him off today May not set him off tomorrow
•    Anonymous said... I would create a snapshot on YOUR child. The problem with a book or a checklist is that it may or may not apply to your son. That is who the teacher should be concerned with. Any prior experience with or knowledge of children with autism should be thrown out the window because every child is so unique.
•    Anonymous said... They are sensitive, they can't read facial expressions so they cannot predict what may happen so any changes need earliest notification to reduce stress, fear and the urge to run.
•    Anonymous said... They understand express their thoughts and emotions but will not necessarily notice, be bothered by or understand yours / others. This is a skill that is not innate to them but can be learned. Oh yes and they are amazing.

Post your comment below…

When and How to Tell Children They Have Asperger's

Image Source: Pixabay

 

Discovering that your child has Asperger’s is a challenging situation for any parent. You may feel worried or overwhelmed, unsure of how to tell your child about their diagnosis. While it’s natural to feel anxious, it’s essential to have a conversation with your child. Your child has the right to know and understand why they might be different from their peers. As a parent, it's your responsibility to ensure your child receives the support they need. In this post, we’ll explore when and how to tell your child about their Asperger’s diagnosis.

Age and Maturity

While there is no right time, experts suggest that it’s best to have the conversation before your child enters adolescence. Children are aware of their differences early on, and if you delay the conversation for too long, they may develop feelings of confusion and isolation.

Children with Asperger's may already be aware of their difficulties in certain areas, like social interactions, making friends, or coping with sensory processing issues. By talking openly with your child, you can help them understand their particular needs and how to get the right support at school, home, and in other areas of their lives.

Respect Your Child’s Processing Style

A child's processing style should always be respected, especially when it comes to communicating that they have Asperger's. It's essential to approach this topic with sensitivity, compassion, and understanding. It’s important to offer simple explanations that cater to their developmental level and individual needs. You should even consider getting advice from a family nurse practitioner on how to handle this.

 

Take the time to listen and observe their reactions. Explain things as best you can in a reassuring tone, so your child feels comforted and supported while they process this new information. As adults, we play an important role in helping our children adjust to life with Asperger’s, and respecting their processing style is a crucial part of this journey.

How to Explain to Your Child

You need to prepare yourself first. Take some time to learn about Asperger’s, its symptoms, and how it affects your child. You may want to seek support from a therapist, counselor or support group. Gather your thoughts, practice what you’re going to say, and choose a time when you and your child are relaxed. Try to avoid distractions and create an atmosphere that is calm and focused.

 

When having the Asperger’s talk, avoid using complex medical jargon, instead, use simple language that your child can understand. You could start by explaining what Asperger's is: "Some people’s brains work differently, and that’s okay." Then you could share more specific examples of your child’s difficulties and differences, and how they make your child unique. You can also mention that many successful people, like Albert Einstein, have been diagnosed with Asperger's.

 

It’s also essential to emphasize that the diagnosis does not change who your child is or their worth. Explain that the diagnosis is just a label that can help people understand them better, and it opens up more resources and support available to them. End the conversation with an opportunity for your child to ask questions or share their thoughts and feelings. Listen to your child without judgment, and reassure them that you will continue to support them as they navigate their journey with Asperger’s.

Endnote

Telling your child about their Asperger’s diagnosis is a genuine expression of love and acceptance. While the conversation may feel challenging, it’s an essential step towards helping your child feel seen, heard, and supported. Remember to approach the conversation with an open mind, create a safe and relaxed environment, use simple language, and most importantly, listen to your child. By doing so, you can help your child navigate their Asperger’s journey with confidence and self-love.