Parenting An Autistic Child
Living with an autistic child can be demanding, but as parents, we can find a balance and ensure they live fulfilling lives.
As a sibling, growing up with an autistic child is difficult, and most parents are not knowledgeable about autism. It is easier if a parent is prepared for what’s to come, and in this guide, we will offer advice on how to make life with an autistic child easier for everyone involved.
Getting A Good Understanding Of Autism
Autism Spectrum Disorder, commonly called autism, is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. Characterized by challenges in social skills, nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors, autism affects one in 100 children. Although characteristics may be detected during early childhood, autism is often not diagnosed until much later in life.
Signs of autism can be detected at 18 months of age or younger, and at the age of 2, a diagnosis made by an experienced professional is considered reliable.
Being a spectrum disorder, every child’s symptoms and needs differ and can evolve over time. While some would have the ability to live independently, others would have severe disabilities and require lifelong support and care.
Early diagnosis and treatment greatly improve the ease of living both for the child and the people involved.
Being Prepared To Parent An Autistic Child.
As a parent of an autistic child, it is vital to be prepared for anything. The first step to preparing yourself is learning as much as you can about autism and what it means to have a child on the spectrum. While this may sound difficult or time-consuming, many online resources will provide all the necessary information.
It’s also beneficial to establish a support network of people who have gone through similar experiences and understand what it’s like having an autistic child. If possible, try connecting with other parents whose children are close in age, so they can help you through some of the difficulties they might have faced.
If you suspect that your child has autism, talk to your doctor or a therapist who specializes in treating children with autism. Ask them about the signs of autism and if they think it’s possible that they have it.
Please focus on the positive, stay consistent, give it time and get support from others.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and don’t be scared of being judged.
Know the early warning signs and triggers of meltdowns
Meltdowns could be an indication of autism (not always), and it is important to identify the early warning signs and triggers of meltdowns. If you can spot the signs of an impending meltdown, it will be easier to prevent one from occurring.
Children with ASD often have the following:
- Restricted interests and repetitive behaviors
- Difficulty in communication and interaction
- Impairment in their ability to function in school, work, or other areas of life
- Experience sleep problems and irritability
If your autistic child has a meltdown in public, don’t panic! Remember that this is not their fault, and they are not doing this on purpose.
Be aware of sensory overload.
Overwhelming emotions or situations can trigger sensory overload. Autistic children find difficulty in communicating their emotions, thereby exhibiting some of these signs;
- Avoidance — Your child stays away from certain areas or activities, such as a noisy restaurant or crowded store.
- Anxiety — Experiencing certain triggers, such as a change in routine, unfamiliar people in their home, or loud noises, can cause panic and distress.
- Irritability — They become frustrated and tend to lash out at others. They may also become aggressive toward themselves, and this can happen even when you’re comforting or trying to distract them from the initial trigger.
It’s important not to take these behaviors personally!
Please don’t assume that your child understands what’s expected of them.
Regarding social cues, it’s important to pay attention to your child’s body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice.
The most important thing is that you remain respectful of your child’s needs while striving towards maintaining some semblance of normalcy in their lives; everyone needs balance!
Know the signs of depression in autistic children
Depression is a mood disorder characterized by feelings of sadness, loss, or anger that interfere with a person’s everyday activities.
Autistic children may experience other mental health problems such as a feeling of unhappiness, irritability or hopelessness (depression), worry, and the feeling or need to keep doing specific actions (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or OCD).
Depression can co-occur with autism, and the signs are much more challenging to observe.
Symptoms of this form of mental illness include the following:
- Low energy and motivation
- Persistent sadness, irritability, or changes in appetite and sleep patterns
- Feelings of hopelessness or guilt
Suppose you suspect your child has developed depression for any reason; it’s vital to seek medical attention immediately. It is a severe condition that can be treated with medication or therapy, depending on its severity.
These signs may be accompanied by physical ailments such as headaches, stomachaches, frequent colds, and flu-like symptoms.
Getting Early Diagnosis
One of the hardest things about raising an autistic child is that many people are unfamiliar with the condition, making it difficult for parents to get help or even get a proper diagnosis.
There are also plenty of online and offline resources for parents who want help caring for their autistic kids.
If you suspect your child has autism, do not wait until they’re older before seeking treatment and getting professional assessments.
The earlier you can get a diagnosis and begin treatment, the easier your child’s life will be.
Creating A Balance
Balancing family time with treatment time can be challenging, especially when dealing with a child on the autism spectrum. If you struggle to find balance, do not hesitate to ask for help.
If your child is depressed or anxious, it may be necessary to seek medical assistance from a professional counselor or psychologist specializing in children’s mental health issues like depression and anxiety disorders.
Friends and family members who have been through similar situations can be of help through proper guidance — they might have some great tips!
