It can be frustrating to parent an autistic child and support their education. Being that they function differently than neurotypicals,ASD children’s educational needs are easily misunderstood. But this frustration is not necessary. In this article,we explore how children and teenagers on the spectrum learn,and actions you can take today to quickly advance their education – and WHY they are worth the effort and commitment.
Autism is not just a series of traits set in stone. Autism is a spectrum. In many cases,it’s brilliance. Other cases are fun-loving children deeply engaged in special interests. Autistic children grow up perceiving the world differently than neurotypicals,especially in their sensory reactions. That’s why you see things like social awkwardness,or even children who communicate best without eye contact.
In many cases,leaning is stifled because children on the spectrum try to navigate a world not designed for them without the appropriate guidance. While ASD has only been discovered and observed within the last century,the past decade has seen a surge in autism awareness & understanding. More resources,like schools for children with autism,have sprung out of the blue. They strike the much-needed balance for parents: tap into the greatest strengths of these truly gifted children,and avoid the consequences of triggering their weaknesses.
Proper autism education can bring out the best in your child. It allows them to avoid burnout,frustration,and meltdowns. While these emotions can initially seem like simple tantrums,the consequences are far more serious than one thinks.
Of course,a healthy anger is necessary and should not be repressed. However,negative emotions in excess can be damaging to an ASD child’s mental health as they grow up; especially as they experience and feel emotions far more intensely than neurotypicals. This in turn puts a greater strain on their nervous system. Don’t get me started on the chain reaction that causes.
Another reason for the emotional support: people with autism are necessary to a functioning society. Scientists,engineers and inventors on the spectrum have given us brilliant technological innovations and advanced the human race. Sir Isaac Newton,Albert Einstein and Elon Musk were/are all traits of the spectrum. Whether it’s answering questions like a walking computer,or solving mathematical problems with seeming effortlessness,autism gives us the gift of our future societal progress. Now is the most critical time to get your child on the right track. Who knows what great things they’ll do in adulthood,and the legacy they’ll leave.
School programs and IEPs for education should consist of: autism-friendly emotional support; individualized coursework & teaching; sensory environments conducive to the child’s learning,growth & development; friendliness to special interests; and,provided it benefits the child,social support.
Private schools for autism are typically hybrid day schools and boarding school in Canada. A boarding environment has a residency component,which can help an autistic child’s social connections and ability to interact with others if that’s a priority.
Homeschooling? Different ways of learning? Tried them all? Consider the help of a FutureBright Independent Education Consultant,who has worked with autistic children and their parents and understands the difficulties families face. With the personalized assistance of matching an ASD child to a best-fit educational environment,you’ll sleep well knowing your child is not alone in their journey,with an abundance of opportunities and support systems.