Good Health & Fitness

You have just received the news that your child has been diagnosed with autism. You may not even know what that means and you will have to inquire your physician to clarify it to you. He will inform you that it is a neurological disorder that strikes children between the ages of one and 3. Even though some kids seem to develop normally up to a specific age, they frequently regress to the earlier years of development.

Kids with autistic tendencies are frequently withdraw from any types of social interactions involving kids their own age, siblings, and parents. They appear to prefer their own company, and see no need for communication. They will be content to stare at an object for hours on end, and usually become rather fixated on that object. They’ve no desire to talk, even if the language was developed normally at a younger age.

They may very well not react when you call them by name or try to interact with them. It’s as if you’re invisible to them. They’ve no empathy for other people, and in fact may see other individuals as objects. You will discover that the autistic kid refuses to make eye contact with you or others. They may be inclined to making repetitive movements over and over, such as rocking back and forth. Certain phrases will seem to get caught in their memory and you may end up hearing the same set of words the entire day, if the child does speak.

Autistic kids also have no notion of what may put them at risk or in danger. Something like fire will do nothing to frighten them or make them aware that it can injure them. In fact, they are usually inclined to self injury, and seem to draw pleasure from hurting themselves. Hitting one’s head consistently against the wall or the rails of the crib may have no effect on them. It is simply another symptoms of the disease. Parents are devastated at seeing their child act this way and are confused as to what to do.

Your child may be completely passive one minute, and erupt into a shrieking temper tantrum the next. You’ll not know what caused it, and in reality, it may have been nothing in particular. This is just the way autism strikes some kids. They can’t handle their behavior and are not doing this on purpose. It is frightening to you, being a parent, and can leave you feeling helpless. Medical intervention is often required.

If you notice that your child isn’t behaving or developing at a normal rate, see a professional. The sooner autism is treated the greater the possibility is of your child being able to function normally. Physical therapy, speech and occupational programs have had positive results in the continuing treatment of autistic children. Help is available if you do not try to drive the issue away.

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In children younger than 3 years, appropriate interventions usually take place in the home or a child care center.

Specific deficits in learning, language, imitation, attention, motivation, compliance, and initiative of interaction are targeted by these interventions. Included are behavioral methods, communication, occupational and physical therapy along with social play interventions.

The day will often begin with a physical activity like children string beads, piece puzzles together, paint, and participate in other motor skills activities: to help develop coordination and body awareness. Social interaction and models how to use language to ask for more juice are encouraged at snack time by teachers.

Read more about Autism Developmental Disorders at Autism Developmental Disorders

The children learn by doing. Students, behavioral therapists, and parents who have received extensive training are working with the children. In teaching the children, positive reinforcement is used. Children older than 3 years usually have school-based, individualized, special education.

The child may be in a segregated class with other autistic children or in an integrated class with children without disabilities for at least part of the day.

Different localities may use differing methods but all should provide a structure that will help the children learn social skills and functional communication. In these programs, teachers often involve the parents, giving useful advice in how to help their child use the skills or behaviors learned at school when they are at home.

Read more about Autism Guide The Essential Guide To Autism at A Comprehensive Resource Revealing the Latest Autistic Discoveries

In elementary school, the child should receive help in any skill area that is delayed and, at the same time, be encouraged to grow in his or her strengths. Ideally, the curriculum should be adapted to the individual child’s needs. Many schools today have an inclusion program in which the child is in a regular classroom for most of the day, with special instruction for a part of the day.

Skills such as learning how to act in social situations and in making friends should be included in these instructions.

Read more about Aspergers Characteristics at Autism Checklist

Higher-functioning children too need help to organize tasks and avoid distractions although they may be able to handle academic work.

During middle and high school years, instruction will begin to address such practical matters as work, community living, and recreational activities. This should include work experience, using public transportation, and learning skills that will be important in community living. You will want to be an active participant in his or her education program, all through your child’s school years,. Collaboration between parents and educators is essential in evaluating your child’s progress.

Summary:
There is no single best treatment for all children with ASD. Early intervention is important, and most individuals with ASD respond well to highly structured, specialized programs. Beginning with communication and social skills, working through strengths and abilities, and progressing to practical matters such as work and community living. Adolescence may be an especially difficult time for teenagers with autism.
So always be sure to give your fullest attention to this important aspect of your child’s life.