As a parent, what can you possibly do when you learn that your child has autism? The immediate response could be a shock – likely followed by a deep, sinking feeling. (And that’s okay).
Every question from “how did this happen?” to “what happens next?” will suck you into a whirlwind of emotions.
However, autism can be treated, and it doesn’t mean the end of the World for your kid.
Children with autism don’t have the same level of socializing skills as other children. So, they tend to be left behind or bullied, which leads to feelings of sadness, loneliness & frustration for such children and their parents.
We have shared four lesser-known facts about autistic children that will help you better understand your kid’s situation and deal with it accordingly.
Have a look:
Autism Can’t Be Seen or Realized Using Eyes
People usually think that autism is a visible disorder with typical physical appearances and visible body language. But that’s not true.
Autism affects cognitive development and a person’s ability to communicate and engage in reciprocal social behaviors. The symptoms of autism may be subtle, and sometimes it may be hard to spot.
People (thinking autism can be seen) believe such beliefs make them treat autistic children without special care. Unfortunately, this affects the behavior of such children, often leading to taking drastic preventive measures.
So, it is important as a Parent to ensure your autistic child is around people who understand their situation and deal with the child with utmost care.
The Silence of An Autistic Kid Speaks
Even nonverbal autistic children have an internal voice, which they may not express on the outside. So, parents and other caregivers should assume that autistic children think just like any other person. They may be very aware of their surroundings and how others perceive them.
The point: They may think like normal people; they are not always good at communicating with them. However, many autistic children communicate through sign language. Others use specific tools to convey what’s in their mind.
Autistic Children ARE Intelligent
Many people assume that autistic kids can’t be intelligent as they don’t speak or socialize on the same level as normal children.
Sadly, this is a common stereotype, leading to so many young individuals being ignored by society. While it is true that autism does affect how an individual communicates and interacts, there is so much more to them than a label.
Sir Isaac Newton, Albert Einstein, Mozart, and Bill Gates – these are just a few great personalities who possessed autistic tendencies.
The point? There are still many autistic kids in the World with amazing abilities. Yes, they deserve to be treated, but the World is still a better place with these amazing autistic kids in it. So maybe we should do more to help get such intelligent kids a chance for a better life.
Autistic Kids Work Hard Like Other Children
The everyday life struggles of an autistic child are unbelievable. It can be challenging, as anyone who has met or interacted with an autistic kid will understand.
This means that they have to put in many times the work and effort necessary for neurotypical children to accomplish the same thing. This includes doing their homework, reading hilo books, playing games, and making friends.
The symptoms of autism are more likely to be found in social behavior, communication skills, interests, and the way a child functions socially. The important thing is determining the child’s behavior and how it should be treated.
For example, most people with autism are unable to read facial emotions or use gestures correctly. They simply don’t get many things that most people do almost naturally because they were born with a certain abnormality in their brain. This is sometimes caused by Fragile X Syndrome which results in intellectual disability.
There are therapies (like ABA) and headphones for autistic children to help them stay away from loud noises that can affect their behavior. Above that, make sure your autistic kid is with the right people and is dealt with special love and care.
Consider sharing the above-stated autism facts in your community to spread more awareness about autism!
*Photos by Agung Pandit Wiguna
