Practical strategies to make life easier for a child with autism

Children living with autism face challenges in social interaction and learning. This is a neuro developmental disorder that affects their overall emotional well-being too. Although there’s no real cure for autism till date, there are multiple ways to help your child cope with the condition. Here are some practical strategies for parents and teachers to help kids live with autism in a much better way.  

Inform the school authorities  
Life can be different for parents who have a special child at home, especially one with autism. They have to take special efforts to iron out the difficulties that their kids face either in their interactions, expressions or learning. Talk to the school authorities about your child’s condition and share with them the specific classroom challenges that he faces. Also, discuss with the teachers in detail about his special needs and share the solutions advised by your child’s doctor. This will go a long way in making life easier for him at school.   

Resort to visual aids 
Make sure your child has access to visual aids such as timetables, chart-papers and photographs. Maintain a trial-and-error method while following this strategy. Figure out which method suits your child the best and let him work with it. If he relies on visual timetables, that help him remember his daily routine, get it attached to his bag or desk. This will help him remember how and when to eat a lunch at school or even how to thank someone for a favour.  

Observe and note down specific challenges 
This strategy will allow you to help your child more efficiently. An autistic child may have troubles with harsh light, strong odour, and certain noises. All these can make it difficult for her to concentrate. If your child is sensitive to the sound of the school bell, let his teacher know about the same and discuss what can be done to help her. Being in a calm and relaxing ambience can make things a lot smoother for a child living with autism. 

Inculcate communication skills  
Children living with autism have speech and communication difficulties, so much so, that they are unable to express themselves and read through others’ expressions. This has a direct impact on their social and behavioural skills. Guide them by inculcating appropriate communication skills and explain how his behaviour can make others feel. Regular social thinking with the help of picture books and peer interaction can also be beneficial. Carefully consider all the words you use and how you structure your sentences. Avoid using complicated words and rhetorical questions. What you ask should be simple and direct.