Helping Children Meet Their Full Potential Faster
For parents who have had a recent diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder; it can be a very overwhelming time with many racing thoughts. This can leave parents with many questions on where to begin; while simultaneously going through the grieving process. To ease the stress, simple tips help as you gear up for the journey of autism.
Here are some tips for new autism parents:
Prepare yourself for the journey ahead. Take time to process the news at your own speed. Everyone deals with situations in their own way, in their own time. It's fine. You don't have to jump onto a moving rollercoaster right away.
Pencil in "me time" or "down time" for yourself on a daily basis. Continue doing the things that make you happy, healthy or content. It could the morning jog or workout at the neighborhood gym, pursuing your hobbies, read etc. Meet loved ones and feed off their energy and come home revitalized.
Step away from the search engines. Do yourself and the family a big favor - don't spend too much time on the electronic device studying / researching ASD. It can be overwhelming and can trigger anxiety. Less time on the internet means peace of mind.
Be ready to receive a lot of advice and at times unsolicited. You just need to listen and absorb what you feel is important / valid to your family and disregard the rest. Be a sponge only when you wish to be one.
Take advice from family members or people with ASD. Connect with such support groups and learn from their experiences. It may assist you when certain behaviors and/or situations arise.
Accept that all the things you will do may not work, that is okay. Every child on the spectrum is unique & special, so what works for one child and family, may not work for another. Be prepared for it. You will find a perfect balance of support and community, it may just take some time.
Take your child out to experience all aspects of life. Teach them life skills by getting them to accompany you on short trips such as a convenience store, pharmacy, bank, park, or a farmer's market. Slow and steady with baby steps. Prepare them in advance and be organized. The more exposure the better.
Have an open mind. Don't shut down suggestions or things before trying them out. It could be sensory toys, medicines, food items and so on. If it works, great! Buy one in each color! if it doesn't, don’t give up, you can always come back to it, or work on it. All moments are teachable moments.
Don't keep things bottled up. Be honest to your feelings. Talking is a good medicine when juggling life as a parent of a child with ASD. Find your support group and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your support book can be friends, family, therapist, coaches, clinicians, and teachers.
