Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication, behavior, and social interactions.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 54 children in the United States is diagnosed with ASD, and the numbers are increasing each year. As a parent, it can be a tough challenge to understand and deal with the diagnosis of autism in your child. Here are three key features that you need to know about, to help you provide the best support and care to your child with autism.

One of the hallmark features of autism is difficulty with social interactions. Children with autism may struggle to interact with others, including difficulty making eye contact or responding appropriately in social situations.

They may have difficulty understanding social cues, facial expressions, and body language that are essential for social communication. As a result, children with autism may appear withdrawn, unfriendly, or unresponsive, which can lead to social isolation and loneliness.

Parents can help their children with autism in social interaction challenges by providing ongoing social skills training, individualized therapy, and creating opportunities to interact with other children in a safe and supportive environment.

One way to do this is by arranging playdates with other children who have similar social difficulties or who understand and accept differences. Parents can also teach their children social skills by role-playing social situations and providing feedback on appropriate social behaviors.

Key Feature 2: Communication Difficulties

Another common feature of autism is difficulty with communication skills.

Children with autism may have difficulty with verbal and nonverbal communication, including challenges in expressing their thoughts and feelings, using and understanding language, and making eye contact. Some children with autism may never learn to talk, while others may develop language skills more slowly or in an unusual way.

Parents can help their children with autism in communication challenges by working with speech-language pathologists who specialize in autism, providing an alternative mode of communication such as sign language or picture exchange communication systems (PECS). Additionally, parents can use visual aids, such as picture cards, to support language development and teach their children to communicate their needs and wants.

Key Feature 3: Repetitive or Stereotyped Behaviors and Interests

Children with autism may show repetitive or stereotyped behaviors and interests. They may have difficulty with changes in routine and may be obsessed with specific topics or objects.

For example, they may repeatedly stack objects or line them up, or they may only want to talk about a specific topic such as trains.

Parents can help their children in managing these challenges by creating a structured routine and environment that minimizes sensory overload.

Providing opportunities for the child to engage in their stereotyped behaviors in a safe and constructive way can be helpful, such as providing a designated area for train sets, or finding ways to incorporate these interests into learning activities. Additionally, parents can work with behavior therapists to develop strategies for managing repetitive or stereotyped behaviors, including techniques such as redirection and reinforcement of positive behaviors.

Conclusion

Autism can present unique challenges for parents, but understanding the features of autism can enable parents to provide the best support and care for their children.

Social interaction challenges, communication difficulties, and repetitive or stereotyped behaviors and interests are three key features of autism that parents should be aware of and prepare to manage. With early intervention, appropriate therapies, and effective support, children with autism can lead a fulfilling and successful life.