The academic performance of a child may be affected by his background or health challenges. One of such challenges is Autism. Note that Autism is not a disease. It is a developmental disability that affects the behavior, communication, and social life of a kid/student.

Kids with autism find it hard to understand how other people feel. They may not be comfortable around bright light, and they get uneasy in unfamiliar situations and social events. Furthermore, autistic kids take longer to understand information, and they do the same things repeatedly. The uncomfortable thing about it is that other kids may not accept them and may tag them as odd or abnormal kids. However, with or without autism, they are still kids with a gift, talent, intelligence, and most importantly, they have a great future.

WAYS OF HANDLING A KID WITH AUTISM

Understanding that autistic kids may not behave and act as other kids do necessitates special attention and care. Hence, it is important to:

1) ACCEPT THEM TOTALLY
The first temptation is to segregate, however, we must not fall for that trap.
One of the biggest support we can offer a kid who has been diagnosed with autistic behavior is our acceptance. We must accept them as one with the other kids. Do not stare at them, don’t shout at them. Accept them and afford them certain privileges because of their disorder.

2) OFFER QUALITY SUPPORT TO THEM
A powerful way of supporting them is, learning all you can about the subject (Autism) on your own. As a parent or a teacher, you will connect with them better when you understand the autistic disorder.

3) CREATE A POSITIVE ENVIRONMENT FOR THEM
Create a conducive environment that keeps them settled. It’s a fact that not all autistic cases are the same. However, if your kid is the one who is greatly affected by bright lights (which may be observed from closing his eyes with his hands) and sounds, you can create the perfect atmosphere for the child by removing such things.

4) GIVE THEM TIME
Kids with autistic disorders can often withdraw and not speak. They can also take a lengthier amount of time to process information. Allowing them more time can be a great way of supporting and empathizing with them.

5) BE SENSITIVE TO THEIR SENSORY ACTIONS & REACTIONS
Being sensitive to the emotional state and your kid’s response to different situations will make you his best friend and confidant because you understand him. With your support and encouragement, he can reach his full potential.

Have you met an autistic kid before? How did you relate to him or her?