Caring for children with Autism can oftentimes be extremely frustrating based on the fact that they require constant attention that is intense and multifaceted. The following pointers will give you a better idea of how to help children with Autism:
Children with Autism need to be a part of the family, not the center of attention and the focal point of it - in the long run, no child suffering with Autism actually benefits from the total attention of their parents, especially when they are not the only child in the family.
Consistency is always the key - you should establish a constant routine that the child knows is going to happen day in and day out. Being disorganized with this and trying to juggle too many things at once will only confuse the child. As a result, they respond by acting out and engaging in bizarre behaviors.
The same words should always be used when you reprimand or reward the child - remember that children with Autism do not learn easily from their experiences. Even if the exact same activity has taken place yesterday, they will see this as a brand new experience the very next day.
If you want to correct behavior that is unacceptable or undesirable, use behavior modification to do so - always remember that tangible rewards will increase the child's motivation. A good rule of thumb is to provide 10 different praise or reward statements for every corrective one.
Children with Autism will provide cues that improper behavior is about to happen - they may start to avoid eye contact or start to whine about something.
Always pay attention to the warning signs - children with Autism need basic instruction so you need to guide them through the activity or task and then reward them for their efforts when it is completed.
Describe what you are about to do with your Autistic child ahead of time - they are easily confused when you make changes in their routine so this will help to an extent.
Find the best special education courses possible to facilitate your child's needs - most of the early intervention programs out there offer special education courses designed specifically for children with Autism that have not reached school age yet, so you can start them on the right path early on.
Contact your local health department and school district - these organizations as well as your pediatrician will have knowledge of all-day and preschool programs that are available in your local vicinity. You may want to search the internet for more information.
3 tips to consider
Maximizing the potential of children with Autism by being consistent with everything you do and say is critical.
The needs of an autistic child are best served by special education classes in public or private school once they reach 5 years of age.
Having time to your own self is very important. Frustration drains a parent of the emotional energy that is required to help the Autistic child. Ask for assistance from friends and family, if needed.
For the latest videos and training information on child development as well as books and curricula on Autism please visit childdevelopmentmedia.com.
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