Tips for Parenting a Child With Autism
In this article
- 1. Learn All You Can About Autism
- 2. Get a Strong Social Network
- 3. Teach Your Family About Autism
- 4. Review the Recommended Autism Treatment Options
- 5. Learn More About Behavioral Training
- 6. Assess Your Child's Need for Medication
- 7. Learn More About Diet Changes
- 8. Use Caution With Unproven Therapies for Autism
- 9. Plan Time for Breaks
8. Use Caution With Unproven Therapies for Autism continued...
Examples of nonstandard, unproven therapies for autism that are receiving attention include:
- Immune globulin therapy. An intravenous (IV) injection of immune globulin is based on the assumption that autism is caused by an autoimmune abnormality.
- Secretin. This treatment uses an IV injection of secretin (a hormone that stimulates the pancreas and liver) to manage autistic behavior. Anecdotal reports have shown improvement in autism symptoms, including sleep patterns, eye contact, language skills, and alertness. Several clinical trials conducted in the last few years have found no significant improvements in symptoms between children with autism who received secretin and those who received a placebo.
- Chelationtherapy. Mercury exposure as a cause of autism is the basis for this therapy, which uses medications to help the body eliminate the toxins. Children with autism often have a craving for nonfood items or unusual diets that may result in mercury exposure; therefore, mercury exposure may be more of an effect of autism than a cause. Chelation therapy has caused several deaths in the U.S.
- Auditory integration training (AIT). Based upon a theory that autism is caused by hearing problems that result in distorted sounds or oversensitivity to noises, this treatment delivers music through special devices.
- Facilitated communication. This method uses a keyboard to assist communication. It has not been found to be helpful, and in some cases has been harmful.
9. Plan Time for Breaks
Many parents of children with autism feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and sometimes defeated. They talk about difficulties in their marriage and other relationships. While there is no quick fix for resolving detrimental emotions, you can take measures to protect yourself so your child's condition does not get in the way of your physical or emotional health.
Review your calendar weekly. In the midst of the many appointments your child might have with speech or occupational therapists or other health care professionals, write in "appointments" for yourself and your relationships. Schedule regular dates with your partner, other children in the family, and close friends.
Exercise regularly. Keep up with the physical activities you enjoy. Eat a balanced diet and stay at a normal weight. Staying fit and healthy is essential to your physical and emotional wellness -- and to caring for a child with special needs.