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My child has been diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder You are not alone, it is estimated that Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) occur in as many as 2 to 6 in 1,000 individuals, and it is 4 times more prevalent in males than females. The most important thing to remember is that your child is a child first. He is NOT autistic, he has autism or an autism spectrum disorder. Don't let the disorder define who your child is. He is a son, a brother, a nephew, a grandson, he is funny, playful, curious, excited, athletic, creative and by the way he has autism. The second most important thing to remember is that since autism is a disorder and not a disease it has no cure but it is definitely something you can live and thrive with. I have met parents who were told by doctors or therapists that there will be a cure for autism shortly and their child will be cured within a year or two, so those parents put hope and energy into waiting for the cure instead of putting energy into managing the situation and learning to work with autism. Parents often blame themselves and place blame on doctors and get lost in guilt. There are a variety of disorders on the autism spectrum, click on the links for more information about each specific disorder. Different disorders
There are many services available to your child. They are there to give your child support to help them mature and reach their potential but this is a very difficult life change for the entire family. It is important that you also find a support system. If your child is in an autistic support program, talk to the parents of his classmates. It will be comforting to know that other people are having the same feelings as you, such as, guilt, resentment, and frustration. Easter Seals also has an Autism program and autistic family support if you are having trouble finding one in your area.
Working With Autism Behavior Management Reward Systems | |
