Early childhood with an ASD diagnosis can be overwhelming for parents. A parent’s plans for their child’s early years and future can shift instantly with the diagnosis. Parents may feel lost among various autism treatment programs, therapists, and their own feelings. The varied symptoms and needs of a child with ASD can leave parents in need of autism support. For instance, they may require parent training programs and a reminder that parents across the globe meet with the daily strengths and challenges of supporting children on the autism spectrum.
At EMIT, we offer in-home telehealth ABA therapy programs to support parents and children between the ages of 18 months to 18 years old. Learn more about our programs for ASD support by calling us today at 844.983.0240.
Seeking Parent Support for ASD
One of the first things a parent can do to support their child’s ASD diagnosis is to seek a parent support group. Knowing you are not the only parent facing the challenges of your child’s diagnosis can allow a rejuvenating peace of mind. It also widens your support community. Simultaneously, try to educate friends and family on your child’s autism diagnosis to strengthen communication and understanding. Ask your community for help and support when you and your child need it. Remembering to support yourself and ask for help can often be as challenging as embarking on your child’s journey with ASD. Here are a few things to remember:
- Care for your own health, not just your child’s. Make sure to keep up with your own doctor’s appointments, exercise, and self-care. This allows you to better support your child and model holistic life skills for your child to emulate as they grow.
- Look for parent support and training programs through the local community to build connections, support, and educate yourself.
- Develop relationships with your child’s teachers and administrators to help advocate for your child’s needs.
Seeking support from your community to help your child learn and grow can feel overwhelming. However, developing a network of caring and understanding people to help your child’s journey is an invaluable step to parenting a child with ASD.
Daily Support For Parents And Children With ASD
Every day as a parent brings new challenges and joy as your child learns and grows. Perspective can be vital in maintaining your own health and modeling positive behavior for your child. Here are tips for maintaining a healthy home environment:
- Focus on the positive. ABA therapy rewards children for good behavior. Keep this mindset when focusing on your child’s development by embracing positive growth and change every day.
- Create and maintain a schedule. Autism therapy and training require daily schedules which help children and their parents thrive. Keep and schedule and make sure it involves time for play!
- Take your child with you. The outside world can be overwhelming and confusing to children with ASD. By taking them to the store, library, or on other errands, you can strengthen your communication bonds and safely introduce them to the world.
Parenting a child with ASD is a marathon, not a sprint. One of the greatest ways to support your child is remembering that learning takes time. Autism therapy varies from child to child and changes as a child grows. Know that it’s completely normal to try many different types of therapy. Some may work for a while or not at all. That’s okay. When you reach out to EMIT, know that we’re here to help you.
Contact EMIT for More Information
At EMIT, we believe in holistic, individualized support for ASD to support parents as children develop into strong, independent adults. Our therapy programs focus on each child and family’s specific needs and concerns. Our resources provide support for parents at any stage of their child’s ASD treatment. If you’re ready to begin telehealth therapy to best support your child from the comfort of your own home, contact us online today or at 844.983.0240.
