The Broach School Blog

Why is it important to support Autism and it’s research?

One in 68 children are diagnosed with this disorder and affects all races, ages, and socioeconomic groups of people.  In fact, you probably know at least one or two families who are raising a child with Autism.  Families that have one child on the spectrum have a 2-18% chance of having another child on the spectrum.  

When most families find out their child is diagnosed with a developmental disorder, they have a fear of the unknown.  A fear that their child will not grow up with the same opportunities as other children, a fear they will never learn the life skills necessary to live on their own, a fear they will never make friends.  While the initial diagnosis can be scary, learning more about this spectrum disorder can be encouraging for any family.  Education is key and we are here to help.

What About Me?

Something is not right, even though friends and family tell you, “Don’t worry, he will grow out of it…it’s just a stage.” You are not so sure. You don’t sleep because you know in your heart something is different about him. You are glued to the internet to find out everything and anything that will help you help your child. You try so hard but nothing seems to help and so you call the doctor. You pray that the doctor will tell you that there is nothing to worry about and that you just have “new parent nerves”, but that voice inside tells you there is something different about your child.  

You have just been told that your child has a “special need”. What does that mean and how will that affect him. So much new information that your brain can’t keep up with your racing heart, but then a calm sense of relief comes over you. Relief that a least you have a diagnosis and have a direction on how to help your child. And then the life long journey begins.

Most people are less familiar with the "other side" of the autism spectrum.  The stigma attached to the word autism typically leaves people believing a child is severely disabled and will never fully function on their own in society.

High Functioning Autism is here to prove that stigma wrong.  Here are a few of your biggest questions answered:

When do the signs of autism begin to be noticeable?

Is your child on the autism spectrum?  Do you frequently get overwhelmed with others not understanding their actions?

Taking a child experiencing disabilities to new, unfamiliar places can be a difficult task.  You never know how they might react and more importantly, you never know how others will react if they have a meltdown.

We have found some "autism cards" that give others a heads up on why your child might have a sudden meltdown.  Movie theatres, public buses or even airplanes might be an appropraite place to give those around you a heads up so they are more understanding.

Here are somethings you should know about meltdowns in children on the autism spectrum:

• they are frequently to gain attention
• can result in self harm
• can occur anywhere 
• will typically wind down on their own
• the child typically feels out of control

For more information on meltdowns, visit EmaxHealth.