Frequently Asked Questions

What is autism?

Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how a person communicates, interacts, and process information.  Individuals with autism may have difficulties with social skills, communication, and repetitive behaviours.

Autism is diagnosed through a comprehensive assessment that includes observations, interviews with parents and caregivers, and evaluations conducted by healthcare professionals, such as psychologists, developmental pediatricians, and speech therapists.  These assessments may include standardized tests, questionnaires, and observations of the child’s behavior.

Early signs and symptoms of autism may vary from one child to another, but they can include delayed speech and language development, difficulty with social interactions, repetitive behaviors, difficulty adjusting to changes in routine, sensory sensitivities, sensory seeking, stimming and intense interests in specific topics.

There are various therapies and interventions available for children with autism, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), social emotional learning, speech therapy, occupational therapy, social skills training, and sensory integration therapy.  These therapies aim to address specific challenges and support the overall development of the child.

To support your child’s communication skills, you can engage in activities that promote language development, such as reading books together, encouraging conversation, and using visual aids like pictures or gestures.  Speech therapy can also be beneficial in enhancing communication abilities.  Slow phrases and using the child’s name in place of “you” and “your” or “yours” act.

Creating a calm and organized environment, using sensory tools and techniques (e.g., weighted blankets, headphones, or fidget toys), be mindful of lighting – natural light gradually introducing new sensory experiences, and providing breaks when needed.

To promote social skills development, you can encourage your child to engage in social activities, such as play-dates, joining clubs or groups tailored for children with autism, and practicing social skills through role – playing or social stories.

While individual responses to dietary changes may vary, some studies suggest that certain dietary changes, such as a gluten-free, may be beneficial for some children with autism.  It is recommend to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice.

At Little Explorers, we have opted for a whole school gluten-free diet.

Local autism organizations, online communities, support groups, and parent networks can provide valuable information, guidance, and emotional support.  Additionally, websites like Autism Speaks, the National Autistic Society are reputable sources of information – Please contact the office and we provide parents/caretakers with a resource pack to use at home.

Encouraging independence and self-care skills can be done by breaking tasks into smaller steps, providing visual schedules or checklists, offering choices, and providing appropriate support and encouragement.  A great way is develop your patience, children with additional need tend to take longer to complete tasks.  Allow them the time, this create a safe environment to allow independence to flourish.  Occupational therapy may also help develop these skills.

Inclusive duccation ensures that children with autism have access to educational opportunities alongside their peers.  It involves providing appropriate supports, accommodations, and specialized instruction to meet the diverse needs of students with autism.  Collaborating with educators and advocating for your child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is important in ensuring an inclusive learning environment.

When addressing challenging behaviors in your child, it is crucial to understand the underlying reasons for those behaviors.  As all behavior is a form of communication.  Strategies such as using visual supports, implementing structured routines, teaching alternative coping strategies, and reinforcing positive behavior can be helpful.  Seeking guidance from behavior therapists or psychologists may be beneficial.

Yes, there are various assistive-technologies that can benefit children with autism.  These may include communication aids, visual supports, PECs, sensory tools, and apps specifically designed to support learning and social skills development.  Consulting with professionals who specialized in assistive technology can help identify the most suitable options for your child.

There are many books and websites that provide valuable information on autism.  Some recommended books for parents/carers include:

Creating a structured and supportive environment at home for your children involve establishing consistent daily routines, providing clear expectations and visual schedules, providing a quiet space for relaxation, and incorporating sensory – friendly elements.  Involving your child in organizing their belongings and personal space can also foster a sense of ownership and control.

There are support groups and parent networks specifically designed for families of children with autism.  These can provide a valuable platform for sharing experiences, obtaining support, and accessing information.  Local autism organizations or online communities often provide information about such support groups – parent/carer support sessions coming soon to Little Explorers.

To prepare your child for transitions and changes in routine, it can be helpful to create visual schedules, provide advance notice of any changes, use social stories or role-playing to explain transitions, and provide support and reassurance throughout the process.  Gradually exposing your child to new environments or situations can also aid in easing transition.

When choosing a school or educational setting for your child with autism, it is important to consider factors such as the available support services, the expertise of educators and staff in working with children with autism, the inclusion policies, the suitability of the learning environment, and the opportunities for social interactions and inclusive education.

If your child is experiencing anxiety or meltdowns, it may be helpful to identify triggers and implement strategies to minimize stress and provide support.  This can include creating a calm and predictable environment, offering visual supports, teaching relaxation techniques, and seeking guidance from professionals trained in managing anxiety and meltdown.

Developing a collaborative partnership with your child’s teacher and other professionals is essential for your child’s overall development.  Regular communication, attending parent-teacher meetings, sharing insights about your child’s strengths and challenges, and actively participating in the development of theirIndividualized Education Plan (IEP) can help foster a strong partnership and ensure your child’s educational needs are met effectively.