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Types of Books For Autistic Children - Click Here
When you know someone with an autistic child, you may be wondering what are safe presents, and which ones you might want to skip. This will depend on the child, and a parent can probably tell you what is good and what is not. Many times clothes and loud toys are not a good idea, as you don’t know how they will respond to the textures or the noises associated with them. There are many times when books for autistic children are just the ticket, but you should remember that there are some that are better than others, and the reasons for this are quite simple.
One of the first things to consider when you want to buy books for autistic children is the material the book is made from. This might be something that would not be a consideration for a child without autism, but it is a matter of importance. Some children with autism love to tear paper. They will do this repeatedly. If you get them a book made with paper pages, they will probably rip it to shreds. Instead, find the large block books that are made from cardboard. They will not be able to rip these nearly as easily, though it is possible. If they chew on things, you might want to skip the cardboard as well and go for the types that are made of pliable plastic. Be careful not to choose the ones with squeaky inserts, as they might be sensitive to those noises.
When choosing a type of book, you may want to ask the parent what the child prefers. If the child loves to sit and hear stories, they would probably love to get books that are about children and animals. They may simply enjoy something that is full of pictures. These pictures can be about anything, but for most young children, pictures of other children, babies, or animals are popular. There are some that have a theme, such as space or farm, that can be used to teach association. When it comes to older children, you should ask the parent what to get. They know better than anyone what their child likes, and they also know the level of intellect. Some autistic children are highly intelligent, and they will need something to stimulate their mind.
There are also some books that are meant to help with socialization and language skills. Because many children have problems socializing, and often have communication problems (despite that fact that they might have an extensive vocabulary), these books can really help. There are books written and developed just for children with autism. These books for autistic children can help them understand their world a little better, and will also help them to understand others These books are also made for children who might have a sibling with autism, or if they have someone in their class with this condition. Understanding and knowledge go a long way towards helping these children adjust, and if siblings and classmates understand, they are less likely to pick on them and make them feel like they are different.
By Rachel Evans. Sign up for a free newsletter for more information on choosing books for autistic children. In the newsletter you’ll also find out more about the signs and symptoms of autism.
15 Autism Strategies For Managing Autistic Children
Managing an autistic child can be difficult at times, which is why having autism strategies in place can make the difference between coping and feeling overwhelmed. The strategies don’t have to be difficult or complex, it’s really simply a matter of ensuring that your child feels secure, comfortable, and calm, so that they can grow and develop in a positive environment.
It’s important to remember that a number of the behaviors autistics display are those that they have developed in order to provide security and certainty to the world that surrounds them. Some of the behaviors that an autistic child naturally develops are designed to shut out situations they find too difficult to cope with. Thus applying the right approach can help a parent reach their autistic child instead of being shut out.
The following is a list of 15 different autism strategy suggestions parents can utilize to help them manage their children with autism spectrum disorders:
1. Provide a predictable environment and daily routine
2. Prepare your child in advance for any changes that need to occur to the routine, don’t spring surprises on them. Keep in mind changes should only be made when absolutely necessary.
3. Activities should have structure.
4. Distractions should be kept to a minimum, especially when communicating, so don’t try competing with the TV or lots of background noise when giving instructions.
5. Ensure you have your child’s full attention when trying to communicate with them.
6. When giving instructions they should be simple and direct so there is no room for misunderstandings.
7. When instructions are given, you need to allow enough time for your child to process them. Autism strategies require patience – don’t rush your child.
8. Try using visual aids like flash cards or picture books when communicating as these can help get your message across and cement understanding.
9. Try to be as consistent as possible with everything you do involving your autistic child. This includes punishments.
10. If an autistic individual is not coping, he/she requires a “safe” place where they can retreat in order to calm down and de-stress.
11. If your child is not coping with a situation, consider if underlying causes (I.E. confusion, stress, fear, pain or over-stimulation) could be a factor and try to remove that cause.
12. When the stress levels of an autistic have reduced, encourage them to return to group activities or situations.
13. Speak to the school to see if a buddy system could be introduced to help provide academic and social support. This involves pairing autistic kids with non-autistic peers.
14. Before attempting to alter or discourage a behavior that you think is inappropriate, carefully consider if this is necessary, as the behavior you are trying to diminish may be replaced by something worse.
15. Don’t take autism behaviors personally, find ways to de-stress yourself and remember that laughter is often the best medicine when you’re at your wits end.
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In addition, parents need to keep in mind that education is one of the best autism strategies they can apply in their efforts to manage their child’s autism. The more information one knows about autism, the easier it will be to cope, understand the needs of autistics, and help provide them with the best environment to grow up in.
By Rachel Evans. Sign up for a free newsletter for more information on autism. In the newsletter you’ll find out more about the signs and symptoms of autism.
