Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Parenting a Child with Autism

• Parents should begin with making a list of how autism is manifested in their child.
• Parents should strengthen their understanding of Preventive Teaching and Correcting Behaviors. Both skills require the foundation of Role-Playing as a critical component.
• Children with ASD may have a difficult time dealing with new situations. Using the skill of Preventive Teaching helps prepare your child beforehand and that preparation can lead to fewer meltdowns and blowups.
• Be patient; with yourself and with your child.
• Break down tasks into smaller steps if your child becomes frustrated.
• More frequent practicing will make the new behavior more and more likely to repeat.
• Be consistent. Keep practicing it until the new behavior is mastered.
• In describing the behavior you want your child to do, it is important to focus on what you DO want and avoid demonstrating what you DON’T want them to do.
• If your child is nonverbal, you can still use this skill, but will focus on demonstration.
• Each time you feel the need to correct a behavior or provide a consequence, Role-Play what should have been done to ensure your child is learning and experiencing the desired behavior.