When embracing parenthood, you define self-less and unconditional love differently. You swear to bring the best for your little one no matter what. Today, when you see them not developing how they should, wondering and worrying comes naturally. Following an Autism diagnosis might leave you unsure of what to do next. 

While Autism Spectrum Disorder is a lifelong condition, your child can live a promising 

future with apt care. Autism can impact their behavioral, social, and communication skills. However, early intervention with Applied Behavior Analysis programs can help out, and there are many centers to assist you with that. Also, we have this blog to guide you further about dealing with your child's ASD. 

We understand that you want to do your best to create the best and most supportive space for your child. That’s why we will focus on providing you with a parent’s guide to offer support to their child with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Read here. 

Become Aware

The more you learn about the condition, the better you can decide and prepare to help your child. You reach out for the treatments and solutions earlier, thus helping your child further.  Along with the resources, look out for instances that prompt your child’s disruptive behavior, things that calm them, and more. This can help you provide safer environments for your child.

Here are some tips to become aware of:

• Read about the condition from reliable resources

• Participate in webinars and workshops

• Connect with your child’s doctors and behavior analysts

• Join support groups

Reward Good Behavior

Rewarding good behavior, or as they say, positive reinforcement is crucial. It helps the child develop better adaptive behaviors and be more motivated to behave a certain way. Also, it is a crucial part of applied behavior analysis programs, which means professionals do that, too. You can reward them with anything that keeps them motivated, such as an object or playtime. 

Here are some tips:

• Use meaningful reinforcers by identifying what they like

• You can use praise as a reward, too

• You can lower the reinforcement by seeing the child’s growth and improvement

• Use positive words or statements, such as ‘I loved’

Look for Non-Verbal Ways of Communication

Yes, it can be challenging to communicate verbally with your child many times. However, that is where you can look for non-verbal ways to connect. Be observant and find nonverbal signs. Focus on the signs and gestures they make when they want something. Emphasize behaviors causing them to throw a tantrum, as that is how they tell they are frustrated. You must also focus on their sensitivities, as they can be hypersensitive to smell, sound, etc. 

Here are some tips: 

• Look out for hand gestures, such as clapping and blinking

• Children often make squeaking sounds when they are happy

• Crying could be another way they can use to communicate

• Stay connected with your child’s behavior analyst to learn about their cues

Seek Early Intervention 

Start early intervention for specialized support and therapies. Your child’s brain can be easily trained at a young age, letting them adapt to better behavioral changes. They will build their strengths and gain new skills and confidence. They will have better communication, social, and behavioral skills. You can enroll your child for early intervention as soon as you can, possibly before the age of 3.

Here are some tips:

• Seek referrals from your healthcare providers

• You can look for therapies even before a diagnosis, but after seeing the signs

• You can connect with our team for ABA therapy in Denver and start soon. 

Be Consistent

It is important to be consistent, as individuals with Autism spectrum prefer routine. Ensure regular guidance and interaction to let them practice what they have learned. A routine can make them feel safe and can even assist in managing behavior better. That is how they can embrace new skills and function independently. 

Here are some tips:

• Set the schedule for meals, sleep, play, and even therapy

• Ensure minimal disruptions to the routine 

• Prepare your child for any unavoidable change

Stay Patient and Positive

Parenting a child with developmental delays like Autism can indeed be challenging. However, you need to be more patient. This can help you make better decisions and be more at peace. Additionally, you can provide a more positive learning environment for your little one, allowing them to make the best of their potential. Remember, children with Autism can have different needs and show unpredictable behavior, and you must be patient with them. 

Here are some tips: 

• Try to be more empathic and understanding in times you face frustration

• Use positive words and approach toward communication

• Feel free to seek professional help anytime you feel overwhelmed or depressed

Seek Help and Support

From a helping hand to relatability, support groups help provide it all. You can seek and join one and connect with other parents. Discuss the challenges, look for advice, and be there for each other with your emotional support. Realizing and relating with other parents can lower the emotion of isolation you may feel. 

Here are some tips:

• Look for local options of community centers and hospitals

• Check out online forums or directories

• Check out the options on Facebook

Take Your Kid Out

Whenever possible, you should take your kid out. Often, you may fear their unpredictable behavior when exposed to an area or situation they are unfamiliar with. However, taking them out for daily activities like grocery shopping can have a positive effect. The child can become more familiar with the outside world.  

Here are some tips: 

• Let the child soak the surroundings and settle down in their own time

• Carry some toys or snacks they love

• Carry headphones if they are insensitive or have trouble with sounds

• Speak to their behavior analyst and other professionals to learn about their expected conduct and adapt accordingly

You will likely make a lot of changes, mistakes, and techniques, and we are sure you will give your best. However, there can be times they do not respond the way you expect. That is where you must be positive and give things time. 

Conclusion

Parenting and guiding a child to the ins and outs of the world takes a lot of time. A child with Autism can demand understanding, patience, professional help, and a good deal of awareness of the condition. In this post, you learned about a list of tips and suggestions on responding to the condition and parenting your child in a better and more structured way. 

Initially, you should be more aware of the Autism and then learn about your child’s behavior. If they do not communicate verbally, look for other cues. You should reward good behavior with praise, objects, or intangible incentives. Be consistent with everything around them and form a schedule. You can take your child out to expose them to the real world. However, amidst managing it all, do not leave yourself behind. Seek professional help anytime you feel overwhelmed or depressed. You can also join support groups and connect with other parents. Do not forget to stay patient and positive, as things can take time. 

Remember, it is important to seek intervention early. At BehaviorSpan, we walk hand in hand with every child through their learning journey. With our applied behavior analysis in Denver, we offer one-to-one teaching and dedicate ourselves rigorously. You can connect with our team for early intervention for your child's Autism.