My ASD Child

"Any tips for dealing with a high functioning autistic child who flips into a rage at the most inopportune times for no apparent reason whatsoever? This erratic behavior occurs at school as well." Advice for Parents— All of us exhibit some "signs" just as we begin to act-out our anger in the form of rage. Thus, it is possible to identify the rage signs in a child with ASD level 1, High-Functioning Autism (HFA). For example, you may detect a certain look in the eye, the tone of voice, or the tightness in the body. Parents need to help their youngster observe these signs right at the onset of rage. Once the child can identify the early signs, he or she can also learn to diffuse it by such methods as walking away or taking deep, vigorous breaths. Teach your child to respond to your "signal" (e.g., your hand motion) to stay calm. Give that signal as soon as he or she starts "stewing" about something. If your child is too young for suc...

"We've been getting complaints from our high functioning autistic daughter's teacher that she doses off during 'study time'. It's becoming a real problem. She seems wide awake and full of energy at home though. What would you suggest?" According to studies on sleeplessness in children with ASD level 1, or High-Functioning Autism (HFA): • 50% feel un-refreshed when waking up in the morning • 50% are disinclined to go to bed • 75% fall asleep sweating • 75% have a need for a light or television in the bedroom • 87% feel sleepy during the day • 87% have difficulty getting to sleep at night • 87% have difficulty waking up in the morning The incidence of sleep difficulties in this population seems to be extremely high. Many parents of kids with HFA complain that this problem is one of the most serious they face. Unfortunately, when these young people are unable to sleep, they do not usually remain quietly in bed. They are often up and ou...

==> How to Prevent Meltdowns and Tantrums in Children with Aspergers and HFA <==

If you’re the parent of a child with Aspergers (AS) or High-Functioning Autism (HFA), you know it can be a struggle from time to time. Your child may be experiencing obsessive routines, problems coping in social situations, intense tantrums called "meltdowns," and over-sensitivity to sounds, tastes, smells and sights.  Then there are the pressures you face (e.g., the awkwardness you feel in social situations, the desperate desire to try anything, and the pressure it puts on your relationships with your partner and other children). It can be very frustrating having a child with AS or HFA. The hardest part is you feel like you’ll never actually get to know your child and how he or she views the world. Click here for personal one-on-one parent coaching...

“I have a very lonely and depressed 17 year old son with high functioning autism that spends all of his time (except for going to school) in his bedroom playing video games. I don’t totally understand why he is always so down in the dumps. I wish there was something I could do to help him find some friends and start enjoying life. Any suggestions?” Adolescence is probably the most miserable and complicated years for many young people with ASD level 1, or High-Functioning Autism (HFA). This is not true of everyone – some do extremely well. Their indifference to what peers think makes them indifferent to the intense peer pressure of adolescence. They can flourish within their specialty and become accomplished in their area of interest (e.g., music, history, etc.). Unfortunately, many HFA adolescents become more socially isolated during a period when they crave friendships and inclusion more than ever. In the rough-and-tough world of middle and high school, these adolescents of...