Autism and Parenting

Recently, I came across a fascinating study that got me thinking about the power of love and care. In this experiment, a number of rabbits were divided into two groups and fed a high-fat diet. Group A rabbits developed high cholesterol, as expected, but Group B rabbits had remarkably lower cholesterol levels! 🩺What was different about Group B? It turns out that their caretakers regularly held them, showed them affection, and fed them with love. 💖 This simple act of care had a profound impact on their health, even under the same dietary conditions as Group A.It made me think about our past generations. They lived closer to each other, supporting one another with warmth and care—and, perhaps not surprisingly, they often seemed healthier too.🌱 For us as parents, there’s a powerful takeaway: our love, affection, and attention can shape our children’s mental and physical well-being. Our hugs, words, and support aren’t just comforting—they can have a long-lasting impact on their health.Let’s remember that the best nourishment for our children’s hearts isn’t just food but the love we give. 💕#specialneedsparenting #acceptanceoverjudgment #parentingwithlove #celebratedifferences #asd #autism #autismdad #autismmom #autismparent #parent #parenting #parentingtips #child #kid #kids #baby #babyboy #babygirl #trust #love #loveislove #autismacceptance #specialneeds #specialneedsparenting #accept #acceptance #motherhood #fatherhood #parenthood

Today, I want to share a beautiful step in my son’s journey. As a non-verbal autistic child, his communication has always been unique and meaningful in its own way. Recently, he started speaking a few words, identifying letters, and surprising us with his own creative take on spelling! 💙It’s incredible to watch him call out words, some from school and others from his own imagination. For instance, he spells “D O D O” for “Dudu” (milk) and “E L L O U” for “hello” — finding his own way to express himself without knowing all the rules we take for granted. 🥰Moments like these remind me that children on the autism spectrum are not just learning from us; they are creating in ways that are uniquely their own. It’s a reminder to celebrate and nurture their creativity, no matter how it shows up. 💫Special kids, especially those on the spectrum, have their own kind of magic, and I feel so grateful to witness his every step. Keep shining, little one! 🌟💙#specialneedsparenting #acceptanceoverjudgment #parentingwithlove #celebratedifferences #asd #autism #autismdad #autismmom #autismparent #parent #parenting #parentingtips #child #kid #kids #baby #babyboy #babygirl #trust #love #autismacceptance #specialneeds #specialneedsparenting #accept #acceptance #proudparent

In a world full of noise, children with special needs often thrive with clarity. 🌱 Here’s why clear and crisp instructions make a difference:🧩 Reduces Overwhelm: Too much information can be confusing. Simple steps help them stay focused.🔄 Consistency Builds Trust: Repeating the same clear instructions fosters security and predictability.🚀 Encourages Independence: Precise directions empower them to complete tasks without frustration.❤️ Strengthens Communication: It bridges the gap between caregivers and children, nurturing understanding.💡 Pro tip: Use fewer words, keep it positive, and include visual cues if possible! 🎨Let’s make communication smoother for our little stars 🌟 because clarity isn’t just helpful—it’s empowering!#specialneedsparenting #acceptanceoverjudgment #parentingwithlove #celebratedifferences #asd #autism #autismdad #autismmom #autismparent #parent #parenting #parentingtips #child #kid #kids #baby #babyboy #babygirl #trust #love #autismacceptance #specialneeds #specialneedsparenting #accept #acceptance

As parents of special kids, we often find ourselves justifying or covering up our child’s behavior to the world. 🌍 But in doing so, are we blocking our own path to true acceptance? 🤔It’s natural to want to protect our little ones from judgment, but constantly explaining or masking their unique ways can make us feel overly conscious everywhere we go. Acceptance begins when we stop apologizing for who they are and start embracing their differences wholeheartedly. 💛Let’s shift from ‘explaining’ to ‘celebrating.’ ✨#specialneedsparenting #acceptanceoverjudgment #parentingwithlove #celebratedifferences #asd #autism #autismdad #autismmom #autismparent #parent #parenting #parentingtips #child #kid #kids #baby #babyboy #babygirl #trust #love #autismacceptance #specialneeds #specialneedsparenting #accept #acceptance

Being a parent of a special child, especially one who’s non-verbal, means becoming fluent in a unique language. A language made of body language, gestures, and subtle cues that express so much when words aren’t possible.For example, my autistic son Rewansh communicates his needs with simple gestures. While taking milk (he uses a bottle and I am okay with this):1️⃣ When he hands me his bottle after a sip, it means the cap is loose, and he hears an air sound that bothers him.2️⃣ If he taps the bottle, the milk is either too cold or too hot.3️⃣ When he points to the kitchen, he’s telling me it’s time to add his favorite flavoring.These are his ways of telling me what he needs, and over time, I’ve learned to understand him through these small but powerful signs.Every parent has their own “KYC” moments – little clues that help us understand what our children need. Paying attention to these details is key, especially for our non-verbal children. Trust yourself, observe closely, and celebrate every breakthrough.Let’s encourage each other to know our children deeply, beyond words. 🙌 #knowyourchild #parentingspecialneeds #nonverbalcommunication #autismparenting #kyc #parentingjourney #asd #autism #parentingtips #parents #parent #fatherhood #motherhood #parenthood #child #children #kid #kids #baby #dadson #sondad #proudparent #kyc #specialkids #dad #mom #daddy #autismdad #autismmom #parentlife

As parents of special children, it’s easy to fall into the trap of expecting instant results. We often think, “I’ll start teaching them once they understand,” but this mindset overlooks the crucial fact that our children need us to actively teach and guide them to make progress.The temptation for instant gratification can lead us to expect immediate learning outcomes, which can be discouraging for both us and our children. However, real growth and improvement come from consistent effort and patience. It’s important to remember that learning is a gradual process. Our dedication to teaching, even if results aren’t immediate, is what truly fosters their development.Let’s commit to breaking this vicious circle by embracing patience and celebrating the small victories along the way. Your efforts matter, and every step forward, no matter how small, is a testament to your unwavering support and love. 💪❤️#ParentingSpecialNeeds #PatienceAndPersistence #GrowthJourney #teachingwithlove #love #asd #autism #autismdad #autismmom #dad #motherhood #fatherhood #parenting #parentingtips #specialneeds #specialkids

Once upon a time, a few animals wanted to decide who among them was the superior one. They sought wisdom from an owl, who set up a series of competitions. The bird soared to great heights in the flying contest, the rabbit dug its way to victory, the monkey swiftly climbed to the top of the tree, and the fish effortlessly swam to its destination first.Two powerful lessons for parents:1️⃣ Every child has a unique ability. Don’t compare them—each shines in their own way.2️⃣ Even the wise can make mistakes. The owl set up different competitions but overlooked one key thing: there’s no one standard for greatness.Celebrate the unique strengths of every child and remember, just like the owl, we all have room to grow and learn.#dotingdad #specialneedsparenting #prouddad #autism #asd #autismacceptance #autismdad #autismmom #autismfamily #love #parent #parenting #parents #parentingtips #parenting #wisdom #decisions #thoughts #act #kid #kids #child #children #parents

Cognitive defusion is a way to counteract cognitive fusion. Cognitive defusion involves techniques that help individuals create distance from their thoughts, allowing them to see these thoughts as mere mental events rather than as absolute truths.1. Mindfulness Exercises: By focusing on the present moment, individuals can observe their thoughts without judgment and without becoming overly attached to them.2. Labeling Thoughts: Identifying thoughts as just “thoughts” rather than facts (e.g., “I’m noticing the thought that I might fail”) can help create distance and reduce their impact.3. Visualization Techniques: Imagining thoughts as clouds passing by or leaves floating on a stream can help individuals see them as temporary and not necessarily reflective of reality.4. Metaphors: Using metaphors, such as “thoughts are like passengers on a bus,” can help individuals understand that they are in control of their actions, even if they cannot control their thoughts.Understanding and addressing cognitive fusion is essential for achieving greater psychological flexibility, enhancing mental health, and fostering more adaptive ways of interacting with the world. By recognizing when they are fused with their thoughts, individuals can take steps to defuse and live more in alignment with their values and goals.#dotingdad #specialneedsparenting #prouddad #autism #asd #autismacceptance #autismdad #autismmom #autismfamily #love #parent #parenting #parents #parentingtips #parenting #cognitive #cognitivedefusion #defusion #thoughts #acttherapy #act #kid #kids #child #children

Cognitive fusion is a psychological concept central to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). It refers to the tendency of individuals to become overly entangled with their thoughts, treating them as absolute truths rather than as transient mental events. People in a fused state often see their thoughts as inseparable from their identity or reality and to them it gives similar mental pleasure or pain like reality.Individuals may find it challenging to distance themselves from distressing or intrusive thoughts, this also gets them far from reality or not accept it the way it is.Parents to special kids are also prone to cognitive fusion, it can significantly impact how parents perceive and respond to their circumstances. It might take them away from the reality to accept the child’s needs or to provide the child with necessary therapy etc.**Challenges**-Self-Judgment and Guilt: Parents might experience thoughts like “I’m not doing enough for my child” or “It’s my fault my child has these challenges.” When fused with these thoughts, they may feel overwhelmed by guilt, leading to feelings of inadequacy and self-criticism.-Perceived Judgment from Others: Thoughts such as “People think I’m a bad parent” can lead to social withdrawal and isolation, as parents may avoid interactions to escape perceived criticism.-Catastrophic Thinking: Future Anxiety: Thoughts like “My child will never be able to live independently” can lead to heightened anxiety and despair. Overprotection: Fused thoughts about potential dangers or failures can result in overprotective behaviors, which may inadvertently limit the child’s opportunities for growth and independence.-Increased Sensitivity to Triggers: Cognitive fusion can make parents more sensitive to situations that trigger their fears or worries, such as interactions with healthcare providers or educators.#dotingdad #prouddad #autism #asd #autismacceptance #autismdad #autismmom #autismfamily #love #parent #parenting #parents #parentingtips #parenting #cognitive #cognitivefusion #fusion #thoughts #acttherapy #act #kid #kids #child #children

Many people have automatic thoughts shaped by past experiences and learned behaviors, which influence how they perceive themselves and others. These thoughts can emerge without conscious awareness and are often deeply ingrained, stemming from a lifetime of accumulated beliefs.For parents, especially those of children with special needs, these automatic thoughts can extend to their perceptions of their child’s abilities. This is closely related to the psychological concept of “Learned Helplessness”, where individuals come to believe they have no control over certain situations due to repeated exposure to challenging circumstances.In the context of parenting, this can manifest as a belief that their child is incapable of performing certain activities, leading to a reluctance to push boundaries or explore new opportunities. Such limiting beliefs not only hinder the child’s potential growth but also reinforce the parent’s sense of helplessness.It is crucial for parents to recognize these automatic thoughts and challenge them actively. By breaking free from these constraints, parents can offer their children a wider range of experiences, helping them to develop skills and confidence. Embracing a mindset that fosters growth and possibility, rather than one of limitation, is essential for both the child’s and the parent’s well-being. Encouraging exploration and celebrating small successes can gradually dismantle learned helplessness, enabling both parent and child to thrive.#dotingdad #specialneedsparenting #loveanddetachment #parentingjourney #supportnetwork #growingtogether #parentingwithlove #expressiveparenting #givingspace #thrivingchild #prouddad #autism #asd #autismacceptance #autismdad #autismmom #autismfamily #love #parent #parenting #parents #parentingtips #parenting #psychology

As a doting dad, I openly express my love for my child and make sure he knows just how much he means to me. I am always vocal about my affection and pride in him. However, I also embrace a form of detachment. This balanced approach allows me to remain indifferent at times, which prevents me from being overly stubborn about specific outcomes. It enables me to provide my special child with the space he needs to grow and develop at his own pace.This detachment has also proven beneficial in allowing others to play a role in my child’s life. It has enabled me to step back and trust the guidance and expertise of his teachers and therapists. By doing so, I ensure that he receives the best possible support from all angles, without my interference hindering his progress. This combination of deep love and strategic detachment creates an environment where my child can thrive, supported by a network of caring individuals who all contribute to his well-being.#dotingdad #specialneedsparenting #loveanddetachment #parentingjourney #supportnetwork #growingtogether #parentingwithlove #expressiveparenting #givingspace #thrivingchild #prouddad #autism #asd #autismacceptance #autismdad #autismmom #autismfamily #love #parent #parenting #parents #parentingtips #parenting

Once upon a time, two parents and their child lived in a cozy home filled with love and laughter. One morning, as one parent was leaving for work and noticed that the child playing near a table where a glass bowl was precariously placed. From the doorway, called out to the other parent, “Please move the glass bowl from the table!” and then hurried off to work.Later that day, a distressing phone call came. The child had been seriously injured because the glass bowl had fallen and shattered on the child. This incident underscored a crucial lesson for the parents about the importance of being proactive in ensuring their child’s safety. Being proactive means taking immediate action to prevent potential dangers rather than simply delegating tasks and hoping they get done. This simple act of immediate responsibility could have prevented the accident.Proactive parenting involves more than just responding to immediate dangers. It means continuously creating a safe and secure environment for children. Few things which we did at home:Childproofing Locks: Ensuring that locks are out of the child’s reach to prevent them from locking themselves or parents in a room.Corner Covers: Using corner covers on furniture to protect against sharp edges.Safety Gates: Installing safety gates to block off dangerous areas such as stairs.Securing Heavy Objects: Anchoring heavy furniture and appliances to the walls to prevent tipping.Electrical Safety: Using outlet covers and keeping cords out of reach to prevent electrical shocks.Toxic Substances: Storing cleaning supplies, medications, and other hazardous materials in locked cabinets or out of reach.Toy Safety: Regularly checking toys for small parts that could be choking hazards and ensuring age-appropriate playthings.Parenting is about working together as a team and taking shared responsibility for the safety and well-being of your child. By doing so, parents can ensure a nurturing environment where their child can thrive without unnecessary risks.#autism #asd #spectrum #parents #parenting #autismdad #autismmom #autismfamily #autismawareness #autismacceptance #kid #kids #child

Psychological errors often arise from mismatches between human instincts and environmental cues. One such error is when people attempt to pull a door labeled “push” simply because it has a handle. This seemingly trivial mistake highlights how external factors can override basic instructions, leading to unintended actions. The handle on the push side of the door creates a misleading cue, prompting individuals to pull despite clear instructions to push. This error is not due to a lack of understanding but rather the influence of external elements that guide behavior in unexpected directions.Parents have an intrinsic drive to provide for and protect their children. This basic instinct encompasses ensuring their offspring’s safety, security, and well-being by meeting fundamental needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. The parental instinct is hardwired and deeply rooted in evolutionary biology, driving parents to create a nurturing environment where their children can thrive. However, just like the push-pull door scenario, parents’ behavior can be diverted by various external factors, leading to psychological errors in parenting.Consider factors like anger, depression, anxiety, social pressure, peer pressure, and expectations. These external influences can be as compelling and confusing as the handle on a push door. Anger and depression can cloud a parent’s judgment, causing reactions that may not align with their instinct to protect and nurture. Anxiety and social pressure can lead to overprotectiveness or harsh expectations, diverting from the aim of providing a safe and supportive environment. Peer pressure and societal expectations can push parents to enforce standards that may not necessarily benefit their children but are pursued to fit a perceived norm. Recognizing that deviations from instinctual behavior often stem from external pressures rather than personal failings can help address these issues more effectively.Acknowledging these influences can lead to better support and understanding, enabling parents to provide the protection and nurturing their children need.

As a parent to an 8-year-old autistic son, every milestone, no matter how small, feels like a monumental achievement. Recently, my son began to speak simple words while this progress is significant, it does not fully encompass his communication capabilities. His ability to communicate extends far beyond verbal expression, encompassing gestures, indications, expressions, and a myriad of other forms of non-verbal communication. This realization has profoundly shaped our approach to parenting and caregiving, creating a world of opportunities and possibilities for him and our entire family.My son’s speech level, characterized by simple words, is just one aspect of his rich and multifaceted communication repertoire. His non-verbal cues—such as gestures, facial expressions, and other indications—speak volumes about his needs, feelings, and thoughts.As his primary caregiver, along with my parents, we have made it our mission to embrace and understand my son’s unique way of communicating. This acceptance has been pivotal in fostering a nurturing environment where he feels heard and valued. Our approach involves several key principles:Active Observation: Understanding my son’s non-verbal communication requires active observation. This attentiveness allows us to respond appropriately and meet his requirements effectively.Encouraging Expression: We encourage my son to express himself in any way he feels comfortable. Whether it’s through gestures, expressions, or other non-verbal means, we validate his attempts to communicate.Consistent Engagement: Regular and consistent engagement with my son is crucial. By spending quality time with him, we build a deeper connection and a better understanding of his communication style.Creating a Supportive Environment: A supportive and understanding environment is essential for my son’s development. We ensure that our home is a safe space where he can express himself freely without fear of judgment or misunderstanding.

Creating an environment that fosters personal growth is crucial for psychological and emotional development. As McLeod (2014) highlights, such an environment must provide individuals with genuineness, acceptance, and empathy. Genuineness involves openness and self-disclosure, creating a space where individuals can be authentic without fear of judgment. Acceptance means being seen with unconditional positive regard, allowing individuals to feel valued and respected regardless of their flaws. Empathy, the act of being listened to and understood, helps individuals feel connected and supported.Without these core components, individuals may struggle to advance psychologically and emotionally. They might find it challenging to form satisfying relationships or achieve self-fulfillment. In the context of supporting the mental health of working parents of special needs children, these principles are particularly relevant. Providing such an environment can help these parents cope with their unique challenges, fostering resilience and well-being.In summary, creating an environment characterized by genuineness, acceptance, and empathy is essential for personal growth. As McLeod (2014) asserts, without such an environment, individuals may not reach their full psychological and emotional potential.

Coaches and senior players provide guidance and mentorship to help less experienced players develop their skills and confidence. Similarly, parents act as mentors to their children, offering wisdom, support, and encouragement to help them navigate life’s challenges and opportunities.A successful cricket team requires careful delegation, training, and preparation. Each player has a unique role, whether as a batsman, bowler, or fielder, and they must work together cohesively. Similarly, in parenting, creating a nurturing environment is akin to forming a well-prepared team. Each family member has distinct roles and responsibilities, and parents must guide and support their children to develop their individual skills and strengths.In cricket, each ball in an over has its own significance. Regardless of whether the previous ball resulted in a wicket, a boundary, or a dot ball, the next delivery presents a fresh opportunity for both the bowler and the batsman. The bowler must focus on delivering a well-aimed ball, and the batsman must concentrate on making the best possible play. Each ball is a chance to influence the game and requires full attention and strategy. Similarly, in parenting, each day brings unique situations and challenges. Regardless of what happened the previous day, whether it was a day of achievements or difficulties, today is a new opportunity for both the parent and the child. Each situation must be approached with a fresh perspective and importance. Parents must be present and attentive, ready to provide support and guidance tailored to the moment. Each day is a chance to positively influence a child’s growth and development.Celebrating victories and analyzing defeats are essential parts of cricket. Teams celebrate their wins and reflect on their losses to improve future performances. Similarly, celebrating milestones and reflecting on experiences help families grow stronger. Acknowledging achievements and learning from mistakes allows parents and children to continually improve their relationships and approaches.#asd #autism #parenting #parents #cricket #cricketlover #kid #kids #child #baby #ipl #ipl2024 #reelitfeelit

Homework plays a crucial role in the educational development of all children, including those with special needs. For kids in general, homework reinforces lessons learned in school, providing opportunities to practice and solidify newly acquired knowledge and skills. This repetition is key to deepening understanding and retention, helping to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical application. It encourages students to independently engage with the material, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities outside of the classroom setting. Moreover, completing homework assignments cultivates a sense of responsibility and discipline, teaching children valuable time management skills early on.For special needs children, homework serves additional important purposes. It offers structured practice that is tailored to their individual learning needs and abilities, reinforcing concepts in a manner that accommodates their specific challenges. Even if a child requires more time to complete assignments, the act of sitting down and working through the tasks extends their concentration and attention span, which are vital skills for academic and personal development. This extended sitting time can contribute positively to their overall ability to focus and engage in tasks, gradually improving their academic performance and self-confidence. Furthermore, homework provides an opportunity for parents and educators to monitor progress, identify areas needing extra support, and adapt teaching strategies accordingly, ensuring continuous growth and development. Thus, for both typical and special needs children, homework plays a pivotal role in enhancing learning outcomes and preparing them for future academic challenges.#asd #autism #autismparent #parenting #dad #fathersday #fatherhood #reelitfeelit #child #kid #kids #parents #mother #father #dadlife

Usually, grown-ups teach children, but often, children have lessons to offer back to their parents, caregivers, and elders. When it comes to children with special needs, learning patience is a universal experience for all caregivers and parents. This is something I also learned while working with my son.My son has taught me to be present in the moment and to live it to the fullest. The past is unchangeable, and the future is uncertain, so worrying about them is unnecessary. Embracing the present is what truly matters in life.I once had expectations, aspirations, and dreams, but I realized these were my limitations. My son gave me the courage, strength, and power to break free from these constraints and explore beyond the boundaries of my aspirations and expectations. This discovery helped me unlock an endless potential that lies beyond those limits. Through my special child, I have found peace and love.

The “waiting room experiment,” a social experiment conducted by a hidden camera show called “What Would You Do?” or similar social psychology experiments. In this scenario, A waiting room is arranged with several actors posing as regular people waiting for an appointment. These actors are instructed to stand up every time a bell rings. At intervals, a bell sounds, prompting the actors to stand up briefly and then sit back down on next bell sound. An unsuspecting person enters the waiting room and sits among the actors. After witnessing the repeated behavior of standing up with the bell’s ringing, the unsuspecting participant often begins to mimic the actions of the group, standing up when the bell rings without understanding why?Even if all the actors eventually leave the room, the unsuspecting participant typically continues the behavior of standing up when the bell rings, demonstrating the power of social influence and conformity.Similarly, parents often might feel pressured to mimic the parenting styles they observe in others, even if those styles don’t align with their values or their child’s needs. Effective parenting requires understanding one’s child, recognizing their unique needs, and making intentional decisions based on this understanding, rather than following others blindly.Parenting should be a journey of personal growth for parents. It’s about evolving, learning from experiences, and adapting one’s approach to meet the changing needs of the child.Parenting should avoid the pitfalls of mimicking others without understanding. Instead, it should be about developing a deep connection with one’s child, continually learning and growing as a parent, and making thoughtful, informed decisions that best support the child’s development. This approach fosters a more authentic and effective parenting style, tailored to the unique dynamics of each family.

Exposing children on the autism spectrum to various experiences can play a crucial role in reducing hypersensitivity towards textures. Here’s why it’s important:1. Sensory Integration: Children with autism often struggle with sensory integration, where their brains have difficulty processing and organizing sensory information. By exposing them to different textures in a controlled and supportive environment, they can gradually learn to integrate and adapt to these sensations.2. Desensitization: Experiencing different textures helps desensitize children to the ones they find aversive or overwhelming. Through repeated exposure, they can become more tolerant and less reactive to textures that once caused distress.3. Enhanced Tolerance: Exposure to a variety of textures fosters tolerance and flexibility. It teaches children that different sensations are part of everyday life and encourages them to approach new experiences with curiosity rather than fear or avoidance.4. Functional Skills Development: Learning to tolerate various textures is essential for developing everyday functional skills. Whether it’s dressing themselves, engaging in play activities, or eating a diverse diet, children with autism need to be comfortable with different textures to navigate daily life independently.Giving experiences that expose children on the autism spectrum to various textures is essential for their sensory development, social inclusion, and overall quality of life. It fosters tolerance, independence, and self-confidence, laying the foundation for their success and happiness in the long term.