what is the best way to deal with an autistic child?

Answer 1

First of all the parent of an autistic child needs to get as much support as possible. Joining a support group can be the best step a parent can make. O.A.S.I.S. (Online Asperger Syndrome Information and Support) is a great resource, go to http://www.udel.edu/bkirby/asperger/. They list local support groups as well as national support groups. The Autism Society of America also has a database of support groups, go to http://www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer. One thing is certain, this is a journey that is almost impossible to do alone.

Getting the child with autism in a program dedicated to teaching them appropriate behavior and coping skills is primary in helping the child succeed and should be done as early as possible. Depending on the degree of symptoms a child may need an intensive educational program with a 1:1 teacher to child ratio. Some autistic children do fine in the classroom with appropriate support from their teachers and parents.

Autistic children generally function better in a structured environment with a lot of predictability. Making and following a schedule can be helpful. If changes need to be made they should be explained clearly giving the child enough time to adjust. Saying exactly what and how things are going to change can help.

Modifying sensory stimuli, such as eliminating outside sounds then gradually reintroducing them, allowing the child to adjust, can help a child with sensory intigration problems. There are sensory diets available online, but it is advisable to get an occupational and/or physical therapist involved if this is a problem that interferes in everyday living.

No matter what it is very important to start treatment as soon as possible. Cultivating patience and making sure you have time away is also valuable. The parent of an autistic child cannot be a super hero.

Answer 2

You should definitely read up on this subject more than anyone on Yahoo answers could tell you. Go to books a million and look in the parenting section (right next to the kid books, with all the What to Expect When You're Expectings) and there are a few books on the subject. Talking to a doctor would also be helpful. Most of all, your child is an individual and cannot necessarily be "dealt with" the exact same way as any other autistic child. he or she is still an individual!

Answer 3

It's a hard road. What you need to do is get a good doctor that you trust that can hook you up with a patient advocate(case worker) who will be able to help you find resources such as therapy(speech, sensory, and even physical), support groups for the entire family and classes on what to expect. The short answer is that it's very hard to deal with an autistic child on your own. Parents are often overcome with guilt thinking if they hadn't done X then Y wouldn't have happened, but they aren't to blame. It takes love and patience and a great network of support and family to get through it. If you are going through that I highly reccomend you start with your pediatrician or the neuro-psych team that diagnosed him/her and work your way from there.

Answer 4

Join a support group!! You will get beter advice from parents who are in the same boat as you. Take adantage of all the state services you have coming to you, including ssi and medicaid. Patience and prayer. Don't compare your child to other autistic kids, they are all different.

Answer 5

lots and lots of love, and a whole lotta paitence. read up on every bit of info u can, realize that ur not alone as a parent and as a matter of fact it wouldnt hurt to join a social group for parents of autisic children for support because some days can be really trying on you. take advantage of every state resource thats available, from group therepy and teaching lifestyles for ur child to free schooling with teachers and counselers especially trained in that field. And it doesnt hurt to have a friend or two with an autisic child (like myself :) to lend a helping ear to so feel free!! Its not going to be easy, but believe me its worth it.

Answer 6

Lots of patience and knowlege of autistic children.

Answer 7

Gosh you will have to read up about that or take a course. Loaded question!

Answer 8

wow....that's really not a question for Y!A.


But short answer: with patience.

Answer 9

I found these sites, it might help you.
http://coco.essortment.com/teachingautisti_reho.htm
http://www.swedish.org/18923.cfm
http://www.autism.org/wereaparent.html