Help for People Parenting and Teaching Autistic Kids

[Guest guest]

Help for parents & teaching autistic children

Teaching an autistic child can be a very challanging experience

leaving parents confused and frustrated. However, with the proper

education and support systems, families can learn to thrive.

Autism is a brain-based developmental disorder that affects 1 in 500

people in the U.S. People with the disorder usually lack typical

language ability and do not do well in most social settings. Males

make up 80 percent of the autistic population, though scientific

reasons for this gender distinction still remain unknown.

What is also unknown is the cause of this condition. Everything from

genetic mutations to chemical imbalances to even side effects from

childhood immunizations has been blamed for autism. While none of

these can be completely ruled out, there is definitely one that can

be: Autism is NOT a result of bad parenting, despite what

many " experts " said decades ago.

While parents may be relieved to learn that their child's diagnosis

was not caused by anything that they did, many still feel guilty for

being unable to communicate with their children. If this is your

problem, rest assured that there are resources out there to help you

and you your child.

The school system is a great resource for helping your child. There

are many teachers out there who have experience and training in

dealing with children with special needs, particularly autistic

children. These educators can often help these children build on

their skills and interests. This is very important because one out

of ten autistic children show enormous talent in music, art, memory,

and mathematics. There are many special schools available to

autistic children that have qualified and trained personnel. If this

type of schooling fails to fit into your budget, don't be

discouraged. Public schools are also responding to the challenge of

educating autistic children. Many are incorporating programs

specifically for these children in their exceptional education

departments.

Another resource is alternative treatments. While methods such as

special diets and facilitated communication have not been

scientifically proven to help combat autism, many families say that

they are effective. The best advice for parents is to talk to other

parents and ask what methods work for their children. While the same

treatments won't work for everybody, some may work for your child.

Always, however, consult a physician before using a new or

alternative treatment with your children.

Additional Tips for Parents:

1. See a doctor. If you suspect that your child may be autistic, go

to an experienced physician and get a diagnosis.

2. Read up on disability rights. Know your child's rights as far as

education, government assistance, and other benefits are concerned.

Know the Americans With Disabilities Act.

3. Get your child treatment. Speech therapy at an early age can

greatly help autistic children develop their language and social

skills. If speech therapy does not work, look into other methods

such as sign language and facilitated communication.

4. Become familiar with Non-Profit Organizations that focus on

Autism.

5. Be patient with your children. Behavior management with autistic

children is a large problem for many families. Remember that your

child isn't willfully misbehaving, just trying to make sense out of

their surroundings.

6. Don't repeatedly drill a task into the child. Autistic people in

general strongly resist any transitions or changes in routine.

Forcing the child into doing something can prove to be traumatic for

them. Instead, give them choice and let them know what task follows

the next. This will give them a sense of control and stability.