5 Tips for Parents and CareGivers Raising a Child with Autism

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Finding out that your child has autism is life-changing for most parents but it’s possible to still have a strong connection with your autistic child. Autism is a complex developmental disability which affects the development of a child’s communication skills, social skills and behavior. This disorder can disrupt every part of your life – relationships, emotional well- being and career aspirations. There is however help and hope out there.

Tips for parents and care-givers:

1. Learn as much as you can about Autism

Ask questions and educate yourself about the treatment options and participate in all treatment discussions with your healthcare provider. The more you know about it, the better equipped you will be to make informed decisions.

Autism is in most cases detected in a child’s developmental years so early diagnosis and treatment are key to helping young children with autism develop to their full potential.

2. Have a good support system

Don’t try to do everything on your own. There are a number of places that parents of autistic kids can turn to for a helping hand and support, such as autism support groups. This is a great way to meet other families dealing with similar challenges which you are. Parents are able to get advice, share information and lean on each other for emotional support.

3. Provide structure and safety

Be consistent, stick to a schedule, reward good behaviour and create a home safety zone for your child. Children with autism tend to do best when they have a good structure or routine in place.

4. Create a personalised treatment plan

It can be tough to figure out which approach is suitable for your child. You may also hear conflicting or different recommendations from doctors and other parents. When putting together a treatment plan for your child, remember that there is no single treatment that will work for everyone. Each person with autism is unique and has different strengths and weaknesses.

Your child’s treatment plan should be tailored to meet his or her individual needs.

5. Make time for breaks

Parents of children with autism often feel overwhelmed and exhausted, which could in turn lead to difficulties in the marriage or other relationships even.

Keeping fit and healthy is essential to your emotional and physical wellness and to caring for your special needs child. In between the many appointments your child may have with therapists or other health care professionals make time for yourself and your relationships. Schedule regular dates with your partner, your other children and also friends – just a couple of hours a week will make the world of difference to your well- being.

Don’t give up!

Raising a child with autism is certainly a parenting challenge. However, with the necessary support and guidance, you and your family can learn to work together and help each other manage. Don’t jump to conclusions about what life is going to be like in the future. Just like everyone else, people with autism have an entire lifetime to grow and develop their abilities.

For helpful information visit: www.autism-society.org