Supporting Kids With Autism
By Caitlin Bootsma
Consultant to the VIRTUS® Programs
If there is anything that those familiar with autism know, it's that there as many varieties of autism as there are people who are diagnosed with it. Children who are on the Autism spectrum may exhibit almost all these common behaviors or only a few. What is for certain is that each child is very unique.
As a caring adult who may work with a child on the autism spectrum, it is ideal to have talked with the child's parents about any specific needs the child may have. In addition, however, there are a few ways that we can interact with children with autism that may be helpful as we seek to provide support and care.
- Be careful of expectations: Like any child, autistic children are still developing, maturing and figuring out their limits. It is important not to assume we know the ways in which autism may or may not limit them.
- Be concrete: For the most part, people with autism respond to more concrete language when being given guidance or instructions. Language such as idioms or sarcasm can be lost or misinterpreted.
- Pay attention to more than just words: Many children with autism may struggle with expressing feelings through words alone. Pay attention to body language or other signs something might be wrong.
- Teach in a variety of ways: It can be challenging for autistic children to learn just by listening. Try alternative forms of teaching, such as drawing pictures or teaching by example.
- Be supportive in social situations: Interacting with other children can be very difficult at times. Help guide kids on how to play with others, and encourage others to include everyone.
At the heart of helping a child with special needs is recognizing him or her as an individual, someone with their own way of understanding the world. Just because some lessons or interactions come easily for the majority of children, doesn't mean they do for everyone.
For more resources on supporting kids with autism, check out the Autism Speaks website or consult WebMD's Tips For Parenting A Child With Autism.
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