Child Autism

Dealing with child autism issues can be very difficult, especially considering the conflicting information, theories and emotional responses about the condition. Many heated debates can cause much distress for parents of autistic children. The child with autism is deeply affected as well.

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Among the most heated debates is whether a cure for autism is necessary. If we look at the condition from the child's point of view, we may be able to determine a balance.

Many therapies for autistic children have been developed over the years and while some find approaches like applied behavioral analysis to be extremely effective, many kids on the spectrum dislike these approaches. Some advocates for people on the autism spectrum suggest using this type of approach is unnatural for the autistic brain.

The differently wired brain is of particular concern as a major child autism issue. However, training the brain to function differently does not change the child's core personality. Every time we learn something new, the structure of the brain changes. Comparing the approach to learning a new language may be able to help clarify the point.

An adult who speaks a different language than those around him may dislike learning the new language. The process is extremely difficult because this individual has passed the ideal time to acquire language naturally. However, if he wants to communicate with those around him, he must learn their way of communication.

This can be a very frustrating, almost painful process for the learner. His mind does not work that way, but creating a new way of communicating that helps him to navigate his surroundings and to interact with others makes his life better in the end. Learning how to communicate with others may also involve nonverbal communication as well.

This process goes both ways. Those around the adult struggling to learn the new, unnatural language can help by learning how he communicates as well. In the end, no core personality traits have been changed in this process.

Ideally, this is what behavioral can communication interventions for autism seek to do. They facilitate mutual learning and understanding.

Another analogy that may be used to describe child autism social issues is the soundproof room. Someone who works with a child on the spectrum may be tempted to "force" responses that are unnatural for the child. This is counterproductive because there is no guidance, and no mutual understanding.

It is like banging on the door of a soundproof room. The child is unable to respond appropriately because she is unable to process the request. If the parent or therapist takes time to enter the room (the autistic child's world), there is a greater chance that a meaningful connection can be made.

Encourage connection by:

Encourage imitation by imitating

• Imitating the child autism characteristics
  • Self-stimulatory behaviors
  • Routines
  • Vocal sounds
• Using interests as tools
  • Make therapy rewarding
  • Include favorite objects in activities
  • Engage in sensory integration activities frequently
• Guide behaviors
  • Set clear expectations
  • Model desired behavior
  • Prompt the child to vocalize or communicate understanding

Serving as a guide rather than an instructor is a wonderful approach to creating a learning environment that works with the child's interests and strengths. Empathy for the individual's needs, sensory processing problems, and need for routine is of great benefit.

Another child autism issue involves self-perception and esteem. Fundamentally, some individuals on the spectrum may not like autism while others embrace the differences as aspects of their personality. It is important to discuss the condition in a way that does not affect the child's self-esteem.

Communicating that you dislike autism may be interpreted by some kids that you dislike them personally, especially those who see the condition as part of who they are. This leads to a critical point with child autism issues. How far should interventions go?

A shy person may dislike being shy. If this is the case, she may work toward developing ways to behave more openly when dealing with others. This may go against her natural way of responding in social situations.

However, if the shy individual likes this aspect of her personality and she embraces this personality trait, no behavioral changes are necessary. Those around her should be accepting enough to allow her to be quiet and reserved. This tolerance can be extended to children on the spectrum.

The goal in therapies for children on the spectrum is not to change personality traits. Tolerance and acceptance are critical aspects of the children's esteem as well as their ability to make meaningful connections with neurotypical people. The children benefit from learning how neurotypical people communicate, behave and interact. However, neurotypical people can benefit from learning how people on the spectrum function as well.

• Preschool Activities for Autistic Children
• Possible Causes of Autism
• Tips for Raising Kids with Autism
• What Is Your Autism Empathy Rating?

• Lesson Plans for Autistic Children
• Adult Autism Symptoms
• Social Skills Activities for Kids with Autism
• Speech Therapy Ideas for Autistic Children
• Famous Autistic People

• Main Page
• Death of Parent of Autistic Child
• How to Know if Child Is Autistic
• Homeschooling an Autistic Child
• Parenting an Autistic Child