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health advisory Hospital Mental Health 2007-11-15 19:01:42

Teach your child self-help skills. Encouraging the learning of these skills will help your child achieve maximum independence.

Because it's not always obvious to others that your child has AS, alert others to the fact that your child has special needs. As a parent, you may have to take on the role of educator when dealing with teachers, medical personnel, and other caregivers.

When seeking a program for your child, try to find one that addresses your child's specific needs or areas of "deficiency." The Autism Society of America (ASA) encourages family members to talk to the program director to determine if the curriculum or program addresses their child's particular issues.

Choose special programs or treatments that focus on long-term outcomes and that take the developmental level of your child into consideration.

Remember that your child is part of a family unit and that your child's needs should be balanced with the needs of other family members.

Get support for yourself and other family members. You can't help your child if you are not meeting your own emotional and physical needs. Your community may offer support groups at a local hospital or mental health center. There is considerable state-to-state variation in the types of government-sponsored services and other programs available to children with autism spectrum disorders and their families.

The Future for Your Child

Currently, there are few facilities specifically dedicated to providing for the needs of children with AS. Some children are in mainstream schools where their progress depends on the support and encouragement of parents, caregivers, teachers, and classmates.

However, some children with AS go to special schools for children with autism or learning disabilities. Many people with AS can function well in most aspects of life, so the condition does not have to prevent your child from succeeding academically and socially.

You may feel overwhelmed and discouraged if your child is diagnosed with AS. Remember that your child's treatment team can provide enormous support and encouragement for your child - and your family.

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Not necessarily, but seen quite often.

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