Communication is a common challenge with raising a child on the autism spectrum. Of course, no two children are alike, and this certainly rings true for the variety of communication strengths among children with autism. Yet no matter where your child falls on this spectrum, Path 2 Potential explains that every person with autism can benefit from speech therapy.
Handling Anxiety
Jumping into speech therapy is an exciting step that can open up a whole new world to you both, but anything that’s new can be scary to a child on the autism spectrum, especially when they’re confronted with new challenges. The first thing you want to consider is how your child may react in this new situation and what you can do to ease their anxieties. One way to mitigate this anxiety is to introduce them to the speech therapy setting gradually.
If your child still feels anxious about starting speech therapy, you may want to talk to your doctor about CBD. According to Psychology Today, research continues to show that CBD can be highly effective at reducing symptoms of anxiety. Besides helping with anxiety in general, some studies have also shown CBD oil to be helpful for children on the autism spectrum who struggle with speech and language development. As long as your doctor agrees, consider looking into CBD gummy supplements, because some children don’t do as well taking oil supplements.
Another way you can help is to be prepared with calming techniques when you go to appointments. You may want to bring sensory toys, like soft balls or clay, or a weighted blanket. Also, consider purchasing a laptop or tablet that can play sensory-friendly games (though be sure to research devices before buying). If these ideas are new to you, try introducing them to your child beforehand to get a sense for what may make them feel more calm.
What Can You Expect From Speech Therapy?
Along with being prepared to handle anxiety, you and your child will both be more at ease if you have an idea of what to expect from therapy. Before beginning, be sure to communicate with the therapist about your overall goals. Some of the general principles of speech therapy for kids on the autism spectrum include being able to communicate their needs spontaneously and being able to understand social communication.
You will also want to get an idea of what kind of methods the therapist will use and how therapy will be conducted. Will they be working with your child one-on-one or in a group setting? Speech therapists use a variety of methods to help with verbal, nonverbal, and social communication. The therapist will begin with an evaluation of your child’s speech and use that to create a treatment plan based on their unique needs.
Some speech therapists will use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) methods when working with children on the autism spectrum. AAC can include sign language, gestures, pictures, written words, or electronic devices. If your child’s speech therapist uses these, they will work with you on how to continue this type of communication at home.
Helping Your Child at Home
As a parent, we know how much it means to be able to communicate with your child. As with most aspects of their life, this starts at home, where you spend most of your time. Ensure that your home environment is conducive to learning and that sources of negativity and stress – such as clutter – are either removed or mitigated. This helps to create a positive living space, which goes a long way toward encouraging your child to be the best they can be.
Keep in mind that, as much as you want to see progress, speech therapy is something that takes time. It takes continuous practice, and that includes your involvement and what you do at home. Your speech therapist will talk with you about ways you can reinforce what they work on with your child.
You can also help by finding new ways to communicate with your child while they’re working on speech therapy. For example, the Applied Behavioral Analysis Programs Guide recommends being careful to avoid sarcasm or idioms because children with autism are often very literal.
Also, look for ways to convert your child’s self-criticism into self-confidence. ZenBusiness notes that it’s “estimated that you make between 300 to 400 self-evaluations per day. Unfortunately, for the majority of us, those evaluations are far from kind. Most major in self-criticism. Research suggests that for the average person 80 percent of their self-evaluations are negative; only 20 percent are positive.” Explain to your child that everyone makes mistakes and that they are able to put their best foot forward.
Finding good solutions and strategies to implement can be challenging, but parents don’t have to go it alone. Your speech therapist will often have suggestions, and there are freelance wellness services you can connect with for holistic recommendations.
We know that parenting a child on the autism spectrum has its challenges, and communication can be one that’s frustrating to you both. Even if it causes some anxiety at first, speech therapy can help you reduce the frustration level. As long as you go into it prepared, speech therapy is a new beginning that will have a major impact on your child’s life and your relationship.
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Path 2 Potential is a leading autism treatment provider that assists children with autism spectrum disorder, social deficits and other conditions to reach their full potential. Contact us for more information! 1-833-AUTISM-2