Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a psychiatric diagnosis that addresses individuals with special needs. Autism diagnoses normally happen very early on for a family and can be life-altering. There are various levels of ASD, and the levels of support that individuals need varies with each one. However, there are a few general tips that can help you learn how to work with an autistic child. The most important thing to remember is that autistic, or not, this is still a child and what they really need is love and nurturing just like any other child. In addition to those two elements, here at 5 tips to help with success when working with an autistic child.

1. Early intervention as soon as possible

Autism has some early features that will clue someone in as to whether or not their child has autism. Some of these symptoms or signs include:

• lack of eye contact
• delayed speaking
• repetitive motions
• aggressive behaviors
• conduct disorder
• flat affect
• loss of control of body parts
• resists physical touch
• sensitive to light and sound
• self-harm behaviors such as banging head

If you notice any of these symptoms, then there is no reason to delay finding a physician to begin working with the child. However, until you are able to get the child to the professional, it would be useful to begin interventions as early as possible, even without the official diagnosis. There is nothing wrong with the child, and although it can be a very emotional experience, ignoring signs and symptoms in hopes that it will “just go away” is problematic as well. Begin doing research about autism and how to best help the child as soon as you suspect they may indeed have ASD.

2. Learn more about autism and personalize to the child

The best way to help a child with autism is to know what the disorder is. There are so many misconceptions, that stereotypes and misinformation can actually hurt the child and delay treatment. There are plenty of websites, including Autism.org that have information about what autism is and how to work with a child that has ASD. ASD is a neurocognitive disorder where certain regions of the brain are not as developed as they are in non-autistic children. This can lead to behavioral and functional disorders that can be very mild, or very debilitating. Some children with ASD lead a pretty normal life, and are considered “high functioning”on the spectrum. However, others require a lot more assistance and may have severe motor, speech, and emotional setbacks.

The important thing to remember about ASD is that all children are different, therefore they must all receive different treatment plans. One shoe does not fit all, and it’s essential to work with psychiatrists, therapists, behavioral interventionists, and school officials to come up with a custom plan that works best for each individual child. It’s also important to really pay attention to the child and their likes and dislikes, triggers, and nonverbal communication such as facial expressions and other signs that they are becoming agitated. This may help avoid explosive situations and de-escalate a situation before it does erupt.

3. Create structure and stability for the child

Autistic children do great when there is structure and stability. Part of ASD is this repetitive behavior that is soothing for autistic children. Adults can use this to their advantage when trying to help a child with ASD by creating repetitive patterns and predictability. This stability will really help the child get into a routine which can help in the development of habits toward greater functioning. Children must feel safe and feel like their boundaries are being respected, so creating a stable environment can definitely assist in the child feeling safe and trusting the adults around them enough to follow the treatment plan.

Another aspect of building towards healthy habits is setting boundaries and sticking to them. If children learn that they can misbehave and not follow rules set by the adults, then they are conditioned to continue that behavior. In order to work towards higher functioning and more autonomous or independent living, children with autism have to learn how to follow rules. Even when it’s really tough and parents are overwhelmed, it’s better to stick to established rules, than to give up and allow the children to run the show..

4. Encourage individual expression and fun

As important as structure and stability are for children with autism, expression and fun are also very important components. Often autistic children take interest in certain hobbies or information, and can create really creative information. It’s a stereotype that autistic individuals are super geniuses or socially awkward like Sheldon on “The Big Bang Theory” however it is true that autistic children have a tendency to take great interest in something and be really good at that one activity.

Find out what the interests of the child are, or expose them to new opportunities to try and help build interest towards a few hobbies or experiences. When children need a break from structure and rigidity, it’s a good idea to have some fun activities and hobbies on deck for them to engage in to provide their minds with a break. This way you can build a system of working towards a reward.

5. Ask for outside help when you need it

Finally, when working with a child with autism, don’t be afraid to ask for help. It is a taxing experience and can be a lot of extra attention and responsibility for another person for well beyond what a normal supportive timeline may be for a non-autistic individual. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed and as if you need a break because it can be a lot. So don’t hesitate to ask for help. It’s better to get help and take a break than to get burnt out and potentially harm the child or escalate a situation.

If you need additional services, either full-time or parttime, DHS offers help for families who have a special needs child. Please take a look at the services that we offer and give us a call so we can tailor our services to your needs. We pride ourselves in individual care, and truly want to help your family in the ways that you need.