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Receiving a autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis for your child can trigger many emotions.
Fear, stress, anxiety, and worry are all normal.
As a parent, you want what is best for your child. If you have recently learned that your child has
autism, you might be looking for some tips and tricks on how to support them.
Here are five pieces of advice for parents with kids with autism:
#1 Stick to a routine
Structure, consistency, and predictable routine can do wonders for your child. Set up a schedule
that accommodates your lifestyle with regular times for meals, school, homework, and bedtime.
You should stick to that schedule as much as possible as children with autism do best when they
follow a highly-structure routine.
Sometimes, life gets in the way, and there will be days when you cannot follow your regular
schedule. If you must change your child's routine, prepare them in advance. They should not
learn that their schedule will not be the same as usual on the day of because they may find it very
distressing.
#2 Work on non-verbal communication
Bonding and communicating with a child with ASD can be challenging. Some children are non-
verbal, and others do not want you to touch them. For those reasons, finding other non-verbal
ways to communicate can strengthen the relationship with your child.
Pay attention to their nonverbal cues, like sounds, gestures, and facial expressions. For example,
your child may always make the same sound when hungry or uncomfortable. Recognizing those
can make it easier for you to understand their wants and needs.
Every parent loves to hug their child, so it is normal to feel sad if your child does not want you to
touch them. However, know there are other ways to bond and connect with them. You can
communicate your love by the way you look at or speak to them.
#3 Teach emotional regulation strategies
Emotional dysregulation is normal for all young children but causes more anxiety for those with
autism. Therefore, you can help your child by teaching them emotional regulation strategies.
Validate their emotions and offer the comfort they need. If you see the tantrum coming, try
redirecting them with a calming activity, like breathing exercises, or offer them choices to make
them feel more in control.
#4 Establish good sleep hygiene
Many children with autism have problems sleeping which is why it is essential to establish good sleep hygiene. Their bedtime should always be the same, and the routine should be predictable.
Avoid any caffeine, intense physical activity, or electronics right before bed. Finally, ensure the
sleeping environment is cool, dark, and quiet.
#5 Find a support network
Raising a child with ASD can be challenging and emotionally draining, so you should surround
yourself with a strong support system. Find other parents going through the same as you and
exchange advice.
Bright Achievements assists parents and their teenagers with autism (up to 21 years old). We
work on their communication skills and show them things like navigating social media so they
can live a more independent life. Contact us to learn more about our services and book your
consultation today.
