If your child has developmental delays in social or communication skills, he may have an autism spectrum disorder. Each child with an autism diagnosis has unique delays. Some children function well in terms of communication skills, but struggle in social situations -- while others have opposite challenges. Some children have severe communication and social developmental delays. Treating the symptoms early gives your child his best chance at overcoming obstacles.
Early Intervention
If you have a child under age 3 on the autism spectrum, she may qualify for an Early Intervention Program. This is a free program tailored to your child's specific needs. Treatment providers first test your child to determine if she qualifies for the program and, if so, what services would best suit her. A specialist or a team of specialists then creates an Individualized Family Service Plan. This is a detailed report of your child's needs and a plan to help her. For an autistic child, the plan most likely involves a combination of speech, behavior, physical and play therapies conducted in your home or at your child's preschool.
Special Education Services
For children over age 3 on the autism spectrum, special education services are available. To qualify for a special education program, your local school district will evaluate your child. A specialist in your school district will create an Individualized Education Plan based on the results of the evaluation. Although the plan is created to address your child's unique needs, he will most likely be placed with other developmentally-delayed kids who have similar needs for at least a part of his day. In this environment he will receive specialized instruction and personalized attention.
Animal Therapy Groups
Riding and caring for horses or swimming alongside dolphins are two examples of animal-based therapeutic approaches to helping autistic children. These programs help kids overcome physical obstacles such as fine and gross motor skills. They also boost self-confidence in insecure children. Working with animals helps children on the autism spectrum develop social skills, a sense of responsibility and a respect for other creatures and the world around them.
Autism Support Groups
Since you are the person responsible for finding the right services for your child, it is beneficial to talk to other families who are in a similar situation. An autism support group is a way to meet other parents who are navigating the same experience as you. Autism support groups meet at libraries, community centers or schools. At the meetings you talk to other parents about local resources, techniques to help your children and any other questions or problems you might have. Parents find support and comfort in these groups.
