Autism-World

I am the mom of a 5 year old boy with autism and he has never gotten violent with anyone. I also work in early intervention with children with all sorts of disabilities. I have to say that one of the things that I try to teach parents is to stop overaccomodating these children so that having a tantrum gets them something. What they need to do is get some real help for their children. Most states have preschool programs for children with autism and most, if not all health insurances, will pay for services for the kids including psychological, occupational therapy, speech pathology, and sometimes a behavioral therapist. In my area, there is a center for autism and related disorders that offers a lot of support.

I think the bottom line is that the director needs to set a behavior plan in place for the children and ask that the parents offer input to it, through their own experience or that of professionals that they choose to seek out. Many times, parents drag their feet in getting help because they are enabled by “helpful” people who accomodate for them, rather than try to help them achieve the most basic levels of behavior. Maybe you can go to the director of the center and let him or her know that they are not just a danger to others, but a danger to themselves. Having standards set for every child is a way to show not only that you believe that they can live up to the standards, but a way to show respect for that child.

Also remember that a lot of children who’s language skills are low get very frustrated in not being able to communicate wants and needs effectively. If the children have or are going to see a speech pathologist, maybe that person can help set up an effective communication system for the children.

Regardless of cognitive level, four year olds should not be with two year olds. The kids need good models of behavior and, in general, a two year old aint it!

I would also ask the director if he or she can help you to be effective while maintaining the health of you and your child. If you frame it in such a way that makes it appear that your main concern is helping the children, then you are more likely to get a positive response.

By the way, Mind B, your idea of giving them a prize to calm down just rewards the tantrum in the first place.

This entry was posted on Sunday, September 23rd, 2007 at 8:44 pm and is filed under Autism Stories.