New Parents of Children with Autism
Consultative Services, New Parents of Children with Autism, Uncategorized Comments (0)
For new parents of children with Autism, where to begin? www.autismspeaks.org has an excellent new parent kit to help new parents quickly become aware of important information, resources, etc. in the world of autism.
In the home too, there are important things “to do” on a new parents list. As a parent of a newly diagnosed child with autism begin networking and seeking out other parents. Parents who have traveled the road before you can be an enormous resource and support to new parents.
Some things to consider…
1) Consider developing a systematic communication system in your home. Work with a knowledgeable speech pathologist to identify appropriate communication objectives and interventions for your child. Work with your speech pathologist on developing a home environment that stimulates and promotes language development in your child. For children who do have language continue working with your speech and language therapists to develop descriptive, and eventually conversational language in your child.
2) Develop a behavior management system for your home. Having a disability is not an excuse for “bad” behavior. Effective behavior management systems are important teaching tools that can be used to assist not only in decreasing problematic behaviors, but also teaching appropriate replacement behaviors.
3) Identify and support your child’s sensory needs. Begin gathering information on sensory integration disorders and understanding your child’s individual sensory needs. Provide appropriate sensory supports throughout your child’s day to assist in regulating your child’s sensory needs. “The Out of Sync Child” can be a useful tool for parents just learning about sensory processing disorders.
4) Remember your needs! Our kids need us to be happy, healthy, moms and dads. Take time to take care of you and your relationships. Develop support systems and relationships, healthy eating, sleeping patterns.
AmyShymansky @ October 6, 2009
