Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of conditions that affects a child’s social, communication, and behaviour skills. The impact of these symptoms range from mild to severe and is different in every child. These signs appear during early childhood stage and if not treated can continue into adulthood.
Parenting a child with autism can be a challenging task because they fail to understand their child’s needs. Frustration heightens when other people misjudge both the parents and the child unfairly. Being emotionally strong allows parents to assist the child’s special needs. It is important to remember that a child with autism can live a happy and fulfilled life if provided the right treatment.
What Must Parents Do?
As the parent, seeking the assistance of a physician as soon as the child exhibits symptoms of autism is essential. After an official diagnosis, it is advisable to start the treatment right away. If he/she is given the right treatment at the right time, greater are the chance of the child’s development and reduction of the autism symptoms.
An applied behaviour analysis therapy for autism is focused on reducing or eliminating specific behaviour deficits in children. The therapists help the learners to gain different skills for healthier lifestyles and for learning communication and social skills.
The Planning
Qualified and trained therapists make a detailed assessment of the child’s skills based on his/her age and ability level. They imply various tactics and strategies to bring improvement in:
- Communication
- Social skills
- Independent living skill
- Motor skills
- Academic skills
The therapists target these skills by dissecting them into small sets. They teach each step (from simple to more complex). They also reward the child for each accomplished task. The progress of the child is monitored regularly for progress.
The goal of applied behaviour analysis therapy for autism is to let each child work on skills which will help them grow into an independent and successful individuals.
Social Skills
Applied behaviour analysis therapy for autism teaches important skills like social interactions. The therapist enrolls him/her in a social skills group (drama therapy, music therapy). Here the child interacts with other participants in an environment created by the therapist. The therapist encourages them in initiating a conversation and hold hands.
Independent Living Skills
A child with autism needs support with independent living skills. This helps them to take care of themselves in the community, at home, school, and other settings. Applied behaviour analysis therapy focuses on honing the basic life skills that include dressing oneself, basic hygiene, toileting. feeding oneself, dressing oneself and basic hygiene. As the child masters this set, the therapist expanded the program to include meal preparation, cleaning up, and independent transitions, etc.
Helping Parents
Trained ABA therapists also conduct sessions for parents and caregivers. They guide them on how to work with the child to attain their goals in less time-space. When trained about how to manage the symptoms, parenting a child with autism is stress-free. When parents observe that the child has his/her emotional needs satisfied, and is apt in managing self-care activities, then they are pleased.
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