If your child has been diagnosed with autism, you know very well the myriad of emotions that one goes through. This is irrespective of whether you’ve had experience with autism before or not. I worried and still worry about the life my son will have, and how society will treat him. I used to even worry about what people will say. I’ve learned a few things I think you probably need to know.

1. Your Autistic Child is Still a Child

I obsessed and sometimes still obsess so much about helping my son that I forget he’s still a kid. I’ve learned that even though my son is different and needs extra attention, he is still a child. Your child wants to connect and play with you as well as sometimes on their own..

Try to have playtime that is not always goal-oriented with them. Relax, have fun with your child, and you might be surprised to find that it’s through play you get to learn their interests.

2. Your Child Will Always Be Autistic

When I learnt that autism is a lifelong condition with no cure, I was shocked. I spent a lot of time and money looking for treatments for my son. Despite the many supposed cures peddled, autism has no cure because it is not a disease.

Work towards understanding and appreciating your child instead. Listen to your child, love them as they are, and cultivate their interests.

3. Always Remember, It’s About Your Child

It’s natural to mourn the life that you could have had with our child. I did. Your life may be changing in ways you never expected, but try to remember that you have a child who is navigating life as an autistic individual. They need your support, understanding, and appreciation.

Although it was hard, I’ve accepted that I need to get rid of my expectations of who I think my son should be and help him be who he’s meant to and wants to be.

4. You Are Your Child’s Number One Advocate

When your child gets an autism diagnosis, the fight for services and supports they need begins. Autistic people face a lot of stigmas due to ignorance, lack of understanding, and myths and beliefs. Many also need more attention and individualized care.

Spending a lot of time looking for good schools where my son can be accepted and supported has made me realize how draining but necessary the fight is. If I don’t speak up for him, who will?

5. Look for The Best Therapist for Your Child

Since Autism is a spectrum, there is no one-shoe-fits-all therapy and intervention for autistic individuals. Some therapists, however, insist on using the same interventions they used for one child to help another. They may even ignore your input.

Look for a professional who is willing to work with you, listen to you, and consider your child’s needs and wants. Refuse to settle for just any therapist.

6. Autistic Voices Are Important

Figuring out what your child is going through or needs, especially if they are non-verbal can be difficult. Autistic people, even though different from one another, have common experiences on what life is like from an autistic perspective.

They can help you understand your child better, and know how to connect with them. I seek them out if I need help with play activities, meltdowns, and sensory issues.  

7. Self-care is Crucial

For you to be the parent that your child needs, you have to take care of yourself. Yes, your child may need you more than a typical child would, but you need to take some time for yourself. I go to the movies, shopping, dancing or just hanging out with my girls.

You might be pleasantly surprised to find out that taking a break is good for both you and your child. 

Conclusion

Autism changes many families, and it may be for better or for worse depending on how you approach it. Think about this, wouldn’t you want your child to look back on their childhood and say they had a great one?