Parenting tips for Autistic child

What do I know about autism?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) describes a wide range of neuro-developmental disorders that affect significant social, behavioral and communication skill. People with ASD often have

Difficulty with communication and interaction with people
Restricted interests and repetitive behaviors
Symptoms that affect their ability to function in school, work and other area of life.

Autism may identify at age of 3yrs. Parents should know about common features, so that they can identify and seek early help

Difficulty with social interactions
Limited or poor eye contact
Appearing not to look at or listen to people who are talking
Poor emotional response( not smiling at parents)
Not responding their name when calling
Delay speech pattern
Limited use of non verbal communication
Repetitive speech or body movement
Difficulties sharing in imaginative play or making friends
Difficulties adjusting behavior to new situation
Repeating certain unusual behaviors or repetition of word/ phrases.

What are the strong point to notice about autism?

People on autism spectrum also may have many strengths including

Being able to learn things in detail and memorize for long time
Strong visual and auditory learner
Excellent in math, science, music or art
Honest and loyal
Punctual and restricted to time schedule.

When to seek help from professionals?

It is important to seek an evaluation as soon as possible if they noticed above mention behavior. The earlier autism is diagnosed, the sooner treatment and services can begin.

What treatment option available for autism?

Medication: People need medication when having problem with irritability, aggression, hyperactivity, poor attention, anxiety etc.
Speech Therapy: These programs help to learn social, communication and language skills.
Behavioral and psychological intervention: These programs are well structured and intensive and may involve caregivers, sibling and other family members.

What parents should do other than treatment?

Accept your child- Stop comparing your child to others. Rather enjoy their special quirks, celebrate small successes acceptance will help your child more than anything else.
Reward good behavior- Positive reinforcement can help in long way. Praise them when they learn new skill, be specific about what behavior they are being praised for.
Stick to a schedule- Autistic children tend to do best when they have well structured time schedule. Set up a schedule with regular times for meal, therapy, school and bedtime.
Be patient with yourself and your child- Accept that you both have plenty of time to grow and learn. You might experience some setbacks. Offer yur child praise and celebrate your personal success as well.
Become an expert on your child- Keep in mind that you are the person who know your child better. Try to find the strength and weakness of your child, find the trigger causes irritability, activities that keep them engaged/ interested.
Look for respite care- Every parent needs a short break. Another family member takes over temporarily giving you a short break for a while. Join support group for parents of autistic child.
Take care yourself- Caring for a child can be challenging if you are the sole responsible person to take care the child. You have to protect your own sense of well being by adopting coping skill to reduced stress.