If you have learnt about the autism of your child, your next question may be about what comes next. No parent could ever prepare themselves for a frightening diagnosis of autism. Autism is a lifelong condition, which leaves many parents concerned that no matter what you do, there will be little to no difference for your child.
Helping your child with Autism Spectrum Disorder can be a challenging task for a parent, yes, however it is not completely impossible. With developing studies and the latest technology, there are many different ways you can help autistic kids. Here are some good beneficial tips and treatment options for your child, which may help you get through autism challenges.
Depending on the degree of autism, a child may not simply grow out of their nature, yet they can acquire new skills and help themselves through developmental stages. Autism has more recognition and awareness than before, therefore reaching out for help has become easier than ever.
Get a thorough Diagnosis without any Delays
Understand the degree of autism your child has. This is important with later therapies during the delayed development stages of your child. Do not wait, fi you feel your child will outgrow the problem, instead start a diagnosis right away. The earlier the diagnosis and treatment initiates, the earlier things become better for your child.
Learn more about Autism
This includes learning everything by heart. Take autism as your subject and then learn everything you possibly can on the subject. The more you know about autism spectrum disorder, the better it becomes for you to handle your child with autism. This will also include learning about the following reaps
- What frightens your child? What calms your child down? When were the earliest signs of autism in your child? This will help you with understanding the troubleshooting problems easily. Differentiating between good behavior and bad behavior will help your child later in the development stages.
- Be accepting of everything your child comes with. Do not exert your own opinions and understanding, rather observe your child and figure out what triggers your child in the first place. Enjoy the quirks and uniqueness of your child. An autistic child does reciprocate the unconditional warmth and love given to them.
- The causes of autism are impossible to predict. Therefore do not jump to any conclusions. Assure yourself that people with autism have a lifetime to grow and develop their abilities.
Provide safety
This is the number one thumb rule when dealing with an autistic child. The following tips will make life easier for you and your child;
- Be consistent
- Create a schedule that works best for your child and keep working towards it.
- Reward any small good behavior.
- Make sure your home is safe, sound and secure for your child.
Find Non-verbal ways for connecting with your child
This happens to be one of the most challenging aspects of parenting an autistic child. Usually an autistic child will prefer non-verbal and non-physical ways of connecting with you as a parent. Even if your child hardly communicates with you, he/she can connect with you by simply looking at you. Look for non-verbal cues, understand their tantrums, and make time for fun. This way you will be able to effectively connect with your child. The most important thing to learn during all this process is sensory triggers. An autistic child is often most sensitive o sounds, smells, and colors. Anything can trigger them. However, based on stimuli around them, they can also be ‘under-sensitive’, meaning some of their gestures may affect others around them, but they may not be able to understand the sensitivity of such experiences.
Draft a personalized plan and get your family involved
Take this as a fun activity you are doing with your child. The more support you have, the best results your child will be able to yield. There are many treatments available and therefore it can be tough to figure out which treatment seems best for your child. We recommend you to take on the approach which suits your child, you, and your family the best. Different people have different experiences, and therefore things that may work for you may not work for someone else and vice versa. Here are some of the options to consider for a good treatment plan.
- How does my child learn?
- Do I need speech therapy for my child?
- What are my child’s strengths?
- What does my child really enjoy?
Treatment of Autism includes
- AD support groups- this is important if you have just begun your journey on learning about autism.
- Counseling- to help you with your stress, anxiety, and depression as handling your child can be stressful.
- Special education requirements.
- Seeking government set organizations for special care.
No matter whatever the case may be, please ensure that the earliest intervention on your child’s behalf can help ease autism. We have a good panel of pediatrics and specialists who can provide online consultation. Feel free to reach Healthwire.pk and book your appointments now.