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Autism is described as a neurological and developmental disorder that makes children behave and act in specific ways different from others. The symptoms of autism may appear in the first two years of life and continue during adolescence and adulthood.
The reason behind why some children develop autism is still unclear. However, proper treatment and kind gestures from family and friends can help improve a lot. This is why knowing how to communicate with a child who has autism is so important.
Common behaviours of autistic children
Stimulating behaviours such as repetitive body movements and making loud noises occur every day in autistic children. They tend to have meltdowns and lose control over their action.
Aggressive behaviour, such as harming others by hitting, throwing stuff, and breaking things, can be another characteristic trait of these special children.
Autistic children may face eating difficulties like overeating or eating insufficiently and wanting to eat foods of a specific colour. They ignore anyone who tries to communicate with them and sometimes refuse to eat, bathe or get ready.
Children with autism often suffer from anxiety and hyperactivity, which disturbs their sleep. As a result, they might become unable to get a sound sleep.
Why do these behaviours happen?
Understanding the reasons behind the specific behavioural patterns of children with autism is essential. It will guide you in responding better to them.
Autistic kids are sensitive to lights, noises, or touch. It makes them overwhelmed and angry. Having to do something out of their routine gives them major anxiety attacks. Being out of the comfort of home into a new place also makes them anxious.
They find it difficult to express themselves adequately whenever they feel unwell or ill, which frustrates them. These children also have trouble learning and making friends in the classroom.
How to deal with these behaviours
Dealing with an autistic child is not an easy job. However, with patience and love, one can overcome challenges.
Seek medical help
The moment you identify or sense that your child has autism symptoms, go for a medical checkup. Many therapy patterns are available, such as behaviour therapy, speech therapy, and play-based therapy. Consult with the doctor and suggest the treatment needed for your child.
Identify key issues
Detect the behavioural issues and identify when and where they occur repetitively. Figure out how they react to hunger, fear, or illness. Identifying these will help you parenting them in the long run.
Observe their body language
Autistic children are not good at expressing their feelings. Being a curious parent, you must learn to read their body language to cater to their needs.
Stimulating behaviours
Children with autism syndrome have sensitivity issues to light, sound, touch, taste, and smell. Figure out what triggers them and makes them stressful. This will help you better care for them.
Connecting in nonverbal ways
Communicating with an autistic child can be difficult as they cannot express themselves adequately. Practising sign language and nonverbal communication can help improve communication with them.
Stick to a schedule
Autistic children perform better in routine activities and feel more comfortable in known environments. So, it is better to maintain a well-planned routine for your child, including meals, therapy, recreation, and bedtime.
Arrange recreational activities
An autistic child loves fun and games as much as any other child. However, because of their sensitive traits, they might need them more. A refreshed mind will be calmer and more peaceful.
Reward system
Rewarding an autistic child for positive behaviour with the things they like will encourage them subconsciously. It will help the child feel safe and relaxed, as they will be recognized and understood.
Setting up rules
Teaching your child about strict rules and consequences is equally necessary to show them kindness. Setting up a boundary between recreation and consequences is essential for healthy development.
Create a safe home
Make your home a safe place where your child feels secure and relaxed. If your child exhibits self-harmful behaviour, you must be extra careful about hazardous items in your house.
Interacting with a child who has autism in the family
Parents are not the only ones who are to act responsibly and sensitively with their children. It takes a whole environment, including friends and family, to grow an autistic child for a better, improved life.
It is a heart-wrenching feeling not to be able to connect with your siblings or grandchild. However, there are many ways to improve communication with them as a family member.
Autistic children often take longer to understand a conversation. So, family members need to be patient while dealing with them. Be kind to them, and do not take anything personally.
Talk to them slowly and gently. Let them know they are understood well so they do not have to shout out of frustration. Tell them what a great child they are. Advise the other kids of the family and friend groups to treat their special friends gently and warn them not to irritate or bully them.
It would be best not to make them feel guilty or treat them as burdens. A child with autism will soon become a growing person with many unknown possibilities. Have faith in your child and provide the best you can for them.
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