Helping Parents Help Children with Autism

       THERE'S MORE TO AUTISM THAN MOST THINK

     Most people think autism is a disorder that is stuck with your child for life. But I have to say that there is research that states that you could be doing more than you think to help your child with their autism. Foremost I believe kids with autism have a big heart. There are more the parents can be doing and I know that is a fact because my very own cousin is autistic and he gives me the biggest hugs out of any children I have ever met! Even though research conducted says that usually they are inapt to smiles and laughter, this is not a true statement for everyone. I believe it is easier to make a child with autism laugh and giggle more than a  regular child who gets bored of you! This is not stating that one is better than the other but I think there needs to be more blogs with expressions of hope, inspiration, and joy towards autism.

     Watching my aunt take care of her child with autism has been incredible. She has read every page there is to know on the topic of this neurological disorder. She’s even tampered with his food to see which types of food makes his behavior better or worse. She’s done foot therapy for him which scientists would argue is just a regular foot massage. But believe me when I say this, her child is one of the most disciplined, loving, caring, and outgoing children I have ever met!

Here are three steps to help you and your child:

1 .    It’s not about you, its about them.

I’ve read numerous articles about parenting and steps to help you with your child’s disorder but I believe that you should give your child, disorder or not, all the love and all of the attention they deserve. Listen to them, talk with them immensely, and lastly love them unfathomably. I realize it’s hard for parents, but it can’t be harder than what they are going through. Here is a great book that helps you understand your child’s disorder and helps you through it: http://www.honorrollsupply.com/products/teaching-young-children-w-autism

2 .    Watch your child’s diet.

Gluten- free products, wheat free products, low carbs, low sugars, natural and organic foods will help create a stable behavior in your child. Every kid is different so you need to pay close attention to exactly what they are eating. For example my aunt realized that a certain color dye was affecting her child’s behavior and increased crankiness and tiresome characteristics. If you would like to know more information on this here is a great article: http://www.sheknows.com/parenting/articles/807819/calming-foods-for-hyperactive-kids

3.      Learn with them while loving them!

One of the main things that autistic children lack is attention from others. Since their attention span is usually slim, parents may interpret that this means they are not following along and therefore spend less time with their child. But I encourage everyone to keep trying even when they are not looking at you because you never know when your hard work and determination is actually going to show in your child’s education. Check out these great games and helpful guides: Photo Conversation Cards,

Language Building Cards, and Mastering Basic Living.

I hope that all of this information will help you and your child throughout your journey in life! Just remember don’t give up and that there are people out there just like you! I encourage you to even find a support group with people just like you who can help you in any way that you might need it.