How to Support an Autism Family: Thoughts from a Special Needs Mom BY AMANDA CIANI PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM
With the Autism rate being 1:36, chances are that most neurotypical families know someone with an autistic family member. Whether a family member’s child has been newly diagnosed or a new friend has a child on the spectrum, the question may be looming in your mind…how can I support my friend or family member who has an autistic child? Kelly Jones, LPCC, MS of Blume Counseling notes, “You need zero special training or skills to be a good friend to a person with a disability. You should not feel unequipped. Ask yourself if previously you have needed skills to be kind to another human. This friendship is no different.” Along with simply exhibiting general human kindness, here are some additional tips on supporting a family with an autistic child: INVITE Everyone wants to feel included! An autism diagnosis can make a family feel othered—different from the rest. Combat
that by accepting those differences and remembering to include the whole family in invitations. Jones suggests that intentions matter, “Let your actions speak positively about your love and care for others.” Depending on a myriad of factors, they may or may not be able to attend a given gathering, but simply being invited can mean the world. A get-together can be stressful for a family that has a member on the spectrum. Asking “Is it easier for us to meet somewhere, you to come to us, or us to come to you?” may be helpful in the planning stages! With the Autism Spectrum Disorder affecting how senses are perceived and felt, bright lights, loud sounds, and pungent smells could be triggering for ASD individuals. Making modifications, even making sure there is a quiet, dim space for the child if they become overstimulated, will allow everyone to enjoy themselves. Also understand your loved ones’ family may need to take breaks or even need to leave
early. Life is unpredictable, and while optimism and hoping for the best are beautiful mindsets, being ready to accept alternatives is good preparation for reality. If life is handing your friend a particularly difficult phase where spending time together in person is temporarily out of the question, don’t be a stranger! Keep the friendship alive through phone calls and texts. Just like all parents deserve some time in the world as adults (not just parents)…special needs caregivers also need respite; be sure to invite your loved one out for some quality one-on-one time too! EMBRACE Unfortunately, having an autistic child can come with a lot of unfair judgement. Strangers staring at innocent stims, gawking at meltdowns, offering snide comments about what they’d do if their own child did X, Y, or Z. This can be disheartening and absolutely exhausting to the family of a newly diagnosed individual.
40 APRIL2025 | BRPARENTS.COM
Made with FlippingBook Digital Proposal Creator