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The autism diagnosis and family stress:
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| Fifteen years ago, the incidence of autism was 1 in 5,000, compared to today's rate of 1 in 166, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis can alter parents' dreams for their children, they should not lose hope, Pratt says.
Below are tips that might help parents and families.
Set priorities and make a plan. Identify the top few issues and needs for your family, and then develop a plan and enlist others in achieving the plan's priorities.
Intensive and ongoing interventions can have a positive long-term impact on your child. In addition to pursuing structured programming/educational options, realize that your child is learning continually. Be prepared to continually teach, coach and guide your child in simple and complex learning and social situations.
You will serve as your child's case manager and lifelong advocate, so organizing information about your child is crucial. IRCA has a Record Book for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders, which can help.
Learn to be consistent with praise and positive information. Minimize negative comments and punishment. Children will not learn by being told what not to do -- instead, they need continual and direct guidance on expected behavior.
Work on establishing positive relationships with professionals. You will need to work together closely to resolve difficult issues. Focus your efforts on attacking problems -- not each other.
Celebrate and build upon your child's interests and accomplishments. Be creative. Realize that these interests and strengths could lead to a career.
Small steps may be major accomplishments for your child. Acknowledge these and celebrate.
Find leisure and recreational activities that the family can enjoy together. Work with the school to teach skills that will facilitate your child's involvement in these activities.
Kids grow up, so start early to encourage and enhance behaviors that will help your child become more successful as an adult. Do not encourage behaviors that will minimize opportunities.
Take care of yourself and your health. You need exercise, rest, laughter and time with friends and others. Families comment that having a child with autism is not a death sentence; it is a life sentence. Maintain your stamina. Practice staying calm and finding humor each day.
Simplify your and your child's life. Establish routines and structure, although your child's should not be too rigid. Use visual supports in your home to clarify expectations and routines.
You can't do it alone, so ask for -- and accept -- help from others.
Much has been learned about Autism Spectrum Disorders in the last 15 years, and, Pratt says, research into causes and interventions continues to grow at an amazing rate.
Your job as a parent is to help your child reach his or her potential -- whatever that may turn out to be. While you shouldn't expect the world, don't limit your hopes, either. Truly remarkable things are being achieved every single day by children with autism.
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