What should I do now that my child has been diagnosed with autism?
As parents, the health and well-being of our children naturally take precedence in our lives. We often quickly pick up on sudden changes in their communication, behavior, or interaction with others. Unique characteristics that deviate from the average can also trigger our concern. Frequently, these shifts could be indicative of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). An autism diagnosis can undoubtedly come as a surprise, leaving us grappling with the question, “What should I do now that my child has been diagnosed with autism?”
It is essential to understand that although there is no cure for autism, there are treatments, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, to manage it. The autism spectrum also manifests itself in many ways; this means that your child may live independently or may also need help performing basic tasks.
Navigating neurodivergence can be challenging for any parent. Understanding the unique mind of a neurodivergent person can be particularly daunting. The good news is that you don’t have to face this journey alone. At ABA Centers of Georgia, we offer a helping hand to those who are just starting to understand the spectrum.
In this blog post, we will discuss the essential steps to take after receiving an autism diagnosis. So, keep reading to get the needed knowledge and help your child thrive.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in social interaction, communication, and behavior. The term “spectrum” underscores the wide range of abilities and challenges individuals with autism may experience. Each person with ASD is unique, and recognizing this diversity is essential for tailoring interventions and support to meet individual needs effectively.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Autism typically emerges before the age of 3 and can persist throughout an individual’s life, though symptomatology may ease with time. While some children exhibit ASD indicators within their initial 12 months, in others, symptoms may not manifest until 24 months or later. Other individuals with ASD acquire new abilities and reach developmental milestones up to approximately 18 to 24 months, after which they may plateau or experience regression, losing skills they had previously acquired.
The term “spectrum” in autism diagnosis, as its name suggests, encompasses a wide range of symptoms. These vary from articulate children labeled as “high functioning” to those with no language skills, categorized as “lower functioning.” According to the DMS-5 Diagnostic Criteria, your child’s symptoms and abilities fall into one of three diagnostic levels, which indicate the severity of their condition and their position on the spectrum:
Level 1: Children in this category have higher functioning, suggesting that they generally do not face significant obstacles in their verbal or cognitive abilities.
Level 2: This level includes children with some verbal or cognitive deficits. Their social challenges become apparent even when they have support.
Level 3: The most severe symptoms are at this level. Children in this category, referred to as “lower functioning,” typically display significant impairments in verbal or cognitive abilities, making them unable to live independently.
Some symptoms people on the spectrum may exhibit are:
- Difficulty with social interactions
- Lack of eye contact
- Struggle to understand social cues
- Delayed speech and language development
- Echolalia (repeating words or phrases)
- Repetitive movements like hand flapping
- Strong attachment to routines
- Hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli such as light, sounds, or textures
- Resistance to engaging in new activities
- Difficulty with coordination and fine motor skills
A recent study published in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report reveals that the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder among 8-year-old children is higher than previously estimated, now at 2.8%, or 1 in 36, compared to the 2018 estimate of 2.3%, or 1 in 44.
What is the Next Step After Being Diagnosed with Autism?
If you’ve arrived at this step, you already have a basic understanding of autism. Yet, we recognize that receiving an autism diagnosis for your child can bring a whirlwind of emotions. There’s no need to fret — with the proper support, resources, and helpful strategies, your child can successfully navigate the world of neurodivergence.
ABA Centers of Georgia recommend the following strategies:
1. Education and Understanding
Begin by educating yourself about autism. Understanding the intricacies of ASD, its strengths, and its challenges is a foundation for informed decision-making.
2. Build a Support Network
Connect with individuals with autism, their families, caregivers, and professionals online or through support groups in Georgia. Sharing experiences with others who have walked similar paths can provide valuable insights, advice, and emotional support.
3. Seek Professional Guidance
Schedule appointments with healthcare professionals, including developmental pediatricians, psychologists, and behavioral therapists such as ABA professionals, to discuss the diagnosis and explore available interventions.
4. Create a Personalized Treatment Plan
Collaborate with professionals to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses the specific needs and strengths of the individual diagnosed with autism. This plan may include behavioral interventions, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and more.
5. Explore Early Intervention Services
Early intervention is crucial for maximizing positive outcomes. Explore and enroll in early intervention services designed to address developmental delays and provide tailored support for the unique challenges associated with autism.
6. Advocate for Educational Support
Work with educators and school administrators to develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a 504 Plan that addresses the individual’s academic and social needs in a school setting.
7. Integrate Therapeutic Activities
Incorporate therapeutic activities into daily routines. These may include sensory activities, communication exercises, and social skill-building exercises that align with the individual’s preferences and comfort levels.
8. Foster Communication
Develop effective communication strategies, considering the individual’s communication style. Involve visual aids, assistive technology, or other communication tools to enhance understanding and expression.
9. Prioritize Self-Care
As a caregiver or family member, prioritize self-care. The journey following an autism diagnosis can be demanding, and maintaining your well-being ensures you can provide the best support for your loved one and avoid burnout.
10. Celebrate Achievements
Acknowledge and celebrate every milestone and achievement, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement is a powerful motivator and helps build confidence in the individual with autism.
Everyone’s journey is distinct, so it’s crucial to customize strategies based on their needs, strengths, and preferences. By doing so, we can empower individuals on the spectrum to achieve their goals and maximize their potential. A personalized approach can make all the difference in education, career, or personal development.
What is ABA Therapy for Autism?
ABA therapy is a well-established therapeutic methodology that has demonstrated its effectiveness in fostering improved social behaviors and communication skills while also mitigating challenging behaviors in individuals with autism. This approach is based on positive reinforcement and systematic intervention, emphasizing nurturing and supporting desired behaviors.
The study “The Effectiveness of Applied Behavior Analytic Interventions for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder” underscored the efficacy of ABA programs, showcasing substantial benefits for children across various domains. Notably, these programs exhibited a high degree of influence in boosting intellectual abilities and demonstrated moderate effectiveness in enhancing communication, expressive, and receptive skills. Furthermore, they displayed moderate efficacy in improving IQ, as assessed through non-verbal tests, overall adaptive behavior, and socialization.
ABA Centers of Georgia and Autism Diagnosis
To conclude, the journey following an autism diagnosis is one filled with opportunities for growth, understanding, and support. By embracing the uniqueness of each neurodiverse individual and utilizing evidence-based interventions such as ABA therapy, families can confidently navigate this path.
At ABA Centers of Georgia, we support you every step of the way. Together, we can unlock the full potential of every individual on the autism spectrum.
If you’re looking for help with an official autism diagnosis, early intervention, or personalized interventions, our expert ABA therapists are here to assist you. Contact us at (855) 929-5058 or visit one of our Atlanta, Alpharetta, or Decatur centers. We believe every child deserves the best care possible and are committed to providing just that.
