(prHWY.com) April 25, 2012 - Zhengzhou, China -- There are many things parents can do to help children with autism overcome their challenges and get the most of life. From learning all you can about autism spectrum disorders to getting your child into treatment right away, you can make a big difference.
It's also important to make sure you get the support you need. When you're looking after a child with autism, taking care of yourself is not an act of selfishness-it's a necessity. Being emotionally strong allows you to be the best parent you can be to your child in need. Read on to learn how to choose effective treatments for your child, and where to look for support. Plus, you'll also find parenting tips to help make daily home life with an autistic kid easier.
If you've recently learned that your child has or might have an autism spectrum disorder, you're probably wondering and worrying about what comes next. No parent is ever prepared to hear that a child is anything other than happy and healthy, and a diagnosis of autism can be particularly frightening. You may be unsure about how to best help your child or confused by conflicting treatment advice. While it is true that autism is not something a person simply 'grows out of,' there are many treatments that can help children learn new skills and overcome a wide variety of developmental challenges. From free government services to in-home behavioral therapy and school-based programs, assistance is available to meet your child's special needs. With the right treatment plan, and a lot of love and support, your child can learn, grow, and thrive.
As the parent of a child with autism or related developmental delays, the best thing you can do is to start treatment right away. Seek help as soon as you suspect something's wrong. Don't wait to see if your child will catch up later or outgrow the problem.
1. Learn about autism. The more you know about autism spectrum disorders, the better equipped you'll be to make informed decisions for your child. Educate yourself about the treatment options, ask questions, and participate in all treatment decisions.
2. Become an expert on your child. Figure out what triggers your kid's "bad" or disruptive behaviors and what elicits a positive response. What does your autistic child find stressful? Calming? Uncomfortable? Enjoyable? If you understand what affects your child, you'll be better at troubleshooting problems and preventing situations that cause difficulties.
3. Accept your child, quirks and all. Rather than focusing on how your autistic child is different from other children and what he or she is "missing," practice acceptance. Enjoy your kid's special quirks, celebrate small successes, and stop comparing your child to others
sand maker. Feeling unconditionally loved and accepted will help your child more than anything else.
4. Don't give up. It's impossible to predict the course of an autism spectrum disorder. Don't jump to conclusions about what life is going to be like for your child
impact crusher. Like everyone else, people with autism have an entire lifetime to grow and develop their abilities.
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