A short article on how to parent an autistic child from personal experience.

 

Parenting is hard, but if you have a child with autism, you might find that parenting is extra tricky. What works for your other kids won’t necessarily work for your autistic child, creating challenges you aren’t sure how to overcome. 

 

One thing you have probably noticed is your child thrives when there is a schedule involved. They like to know what is coming and what to expect. It is incredibly important to schedule your child’s day and stick to that schedule. You will notice they are much calmer and more relaxed during transitions.

 

Rewarding good behavior is another great way to parent your autistic child. This will create a lasting impact on them, and they will seek out this positive attention. Praise them when they learn something new or behave in different, positive way.

 

Children with autism can get overwhelmed very easily, even in their own home. A great way to relieve this is by giving them a safe space. It doesn’t need to be anything extravagant, just somewhere they can go to be by themselves, relax, and feel safe. This could potentially be a tent, a corner with comfy pillows and blankets, or a sensory swing. You might need to try a few things before your child learns what they like.

Connecting with a child that has autism isn’t going to look the same as connecting with a child without autism. For example, you don’t need to use words to communicate and bond with your autistic child. You can connect with them simply by how you look at them, how you touch them, and with your body language.

 

The most important thing you can do to connect with your child with autism is learn their nonverbal cues. Children with autism have a very difficult time expressing their needs verbally, so you need to learn how to communicate with them without words. Pay attention to sounds, facial expressions, or hand gestures they make. This will help you understand what they are trying to say and reduce frustration for both you and them.

 

While autistic children typically like to play alone, making time to play with them is important for connection. Find some activities that your child will think is fun and set them up to do together. Spend time making them laugh and smile. Getting in on their fun will create a strong bond.

It is difficult to parent an autistic child without proper support. Others with children that have autism are going to be the best support system you can find. Try to find an autism support group with parents like you to share information, seek advice, and lean on when things get hard.