According to statistics reported by CDC in 2020, 1 in 54 children in the USA were diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in 2016. It is suggested that boys are 4 times more likely to get a diagnosis of autism than girls. Autism does not discriminate; it effects all ethnicities and socio-economic groups. Perhaps you have your suspicions. You may have seen some signs that are ringing bells and the first place you go to is the internet- we all do it! But when it comes to our children, it's easy to get swept away with so much information and the panic sets in. Many fear an autism diagnosis, worried about this label that their children will have to wear. But getting a diagnosis and early intervention is the best thing that could happen. Your concerns are validated and above all, you can access the help and services available. Here comes the big but! A diagnosis can take months, even years. And this can be detrimental to your child's well-being. Yet, there is an array of things you can start doing at home to better understand the needs of your child and support their development-without the need for qualifications and professional experience. In the first part of my guide to Autism, you will learn: How ASD is diagnosed and the necessary steps in the process 6 of the greatest challenges that come with autism and how your child might feel How to create routines that you and your child can easily manage What triggers ASD meltdowns and the sensory changes you can make to ease their suffering How to keep your ASD child safe at all times How to make mealtimes more enjoyable-even when they struggle with certain foods Simple ways to help your child develop their early interaction skills Tips and tricks to manage your child's anxiety How to avoid information overload and what to do with unsolicited advice Why adult self-care is essential when taking care of your little one 5 different types of speech/play therapy you can do at home
Everyone doubts their parenting skills but for a parent whose child is on the spectrum, these doubts are magnified. You are worried about everything from what you could be doing better to their future. Take all this energy, add it to the knowledge you are about to discover, and start making small changes that will have an amazing impact on your child's life as well as the entire family!