Understanding AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

It's the duty of all parents to lead by example and also teach their children to communicate with autistic children with sensitivity and empathy

- RITU JAIN

Does your child have a sibling, neighbour, classmate, or play buddy who is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)? If yes, your child may be reporting difficulty in communicating with her. Before you educate and teach her about communicating with children with ASD, you need to understand this disorder. Herein is a short guide to ASD.

Autism spectrum disorder is a development disability which affects an individual’s social and interpersonal interactions. Some common signs and symptoms are:

• Children with ASD don’t like to participate in group activities and/or show disinterest. They are also unable to decode non-verbal signals. For instance, if you smile or grimace, they will not respond.

• Sensory issues also pose problems as many autistic children cannot tolerate high noise levels. 

• Children with ASD perform repetitive movements such as flapping their hands or spinning and become irritated or frustrated by minor changes in their daily routine.