Autism can rob a child of their childhood. The happy outgoing child now must deal with the effects of this developmental disorder that appears in the first 3 years of life, and affects the brain's normal development of social and communication skills. As a parent there are great challenges for you as well. This is a guide about parenting an autistic child.
Celebrate each milestone. Holding a cup at 18 months may not have been a big deal to others, but it was for me. Clapping his hands for the first time at 3 years old was a celebration. A much bigger milestone was not having to change a diaper when he was ten years old.
Going out in public was a great place to educate others. Especially hearing rude comments about your child who was having a meltdown in Walmart because of noises, lights, etc. As I held my then 6 year old in my arms sitting on the floor, it was a great time to pass out 'business' cards I had made with "I'm Not Naughty...I Have Autism" on the front of them. The back of them went like this "If you are alarmed because of my child's behavior, it is not because of lack of discipline."
Autism affects one's ability to understand their environment, and usually they are oversensitive to everything that affects their senses such as sounds, touches and smell. My child has an inability to cope with any changes in his routine. Because of an inability to communicate, my child has frustration and pain. Please be patient while I teach my child to be social.
To learn more about Autism, go to: http://www.autismsociety.org or call 1-800-3AutisM.
Not all autistic children are alike. There are so many different tips out there and not everything will work. Educating yourself and others is a great start to a solution.
By Sarah from Shelton, WA
I am so thankful to Dr. Benard Rimland, God rest his soul.
By Robyn Fed from Hampton TN
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http://www.autism.com/
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There are other files in the files section, and there are lots of things to look into - for example, the use of epsom salt baths for ADHD and other disabilities due to their need for magnesium and ability to get it transdermally. Thyroid issues, anesthesia problems, toxic problems with food and other issues are all discussed.
By Robyn Fed from Hampton, TN
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http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/ARIsupport/
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I've learned to be realistic; progress is slow. I've learned to fight like a rabid pitbull for him and to trust my gut. I've learned to laugh at whatever I can, because tears don't help. He is stronger than I thought, and he can handle change better than I thought. I'm working on not underestimating him but it's tough since he can't talk to tell me what he wants, needs, likes, hates, can do, can't do and so on.
Don't be afraid to ask for help. Just be specific in what help. Most of all learn to rejoice in the good times and try to forget the bad moments. And on the worst days remember - "This too shall pass".
By Jeanne K. from Marilla, NY
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www.autismfile.com/what-is-autism-facts/autism-spectrum-facts/help-child-with-autism-facts
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I have a daughter who is 10 years old and the light of my life. She also was diagnosed with autism at age 2. I am looking to see if there are any parents I could talk with out there who have an autistic child. I really have no one to talk to and share my thoughts with. I am basically looking for a sympathetic ear, someone who understands what I am going through. Thanks.
Rosemarie from Lynn, Mass.
By dietvanilla
01/25/2009
Honey just look in the phone book and try Easter seals in your neck of the woods. Also ask at school if there are parents of special needs. I have a beautiful 6 yr old little girl who is autistic and non verbal and means the world to me. So good luck, we are here and not too far away.
My elementary aged kids have learning disabilities including dyslexia and autism. The school is not able to provide textbooks on MP3 or other audio files that I can download. They are quite behind in school and I am transitioning to home schooling after many years of watching them fall further behind. I am looking for resources to educate my kids. We do not qualify for waived fees thru books on tape organizations or Assistive Technology, but cannot afford any of the fees involved.
This is broad, but I am starting with audio materials that can accompany text books. We can get audio story books easily, but cannot access grade leveled text materials. I am open to all suggestions! Thank you.
By SAN
By Lilac
12/02/2011
Rather than try to teach them at home I suggest you search for alternative schooling. Your state is obligated to provide education for your children. There must be a different school, even a private one that can help them.
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Help Parenting an Autistic Child