Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or simply Autism is a disorder of the brain commonly seen in developing children. It is characterized by age inappropriate, impaired social communication and the presence of stereotypic behavior. Children with this disorder have inappropriate communication, impaired social interaction with other individuals (including caregiver, relatives, friends and the world at large) and repetitive stereotypical behavior. This limited social interaction is reflected in the child’s limitation to play, interact and learn new skills. The skills could be basic skills that we take for granted – like paying attention while somebody calls, maintaining eye contact while talking, pointing our finger to objects of interest etc…, self care skills or something very advanced such as academic skills or problem solving. The parent can find the child not be progressing as other children and can see marked differences in achievement of the child’s milestones and behavior in comparison to other typical children. The treatment primarily is non pharmacological. It starts with a skill assessment of the child. Guaging the strengths and weaknesses in the child’s skills set and then working towards building them.
Medicines are indicated only in reduction of target behaviors and improving quality of life significantly. All treatment pharmacological and nonpharmacological is to be taken under strict medical supervision.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) typically presents itself during childhood, and there are some signs that you can observe in your child. Some early indicators of ASD may include delayed speech, difficulty with social interaction and communication, repetitive behaviors, and sensory sensitivities. However, these symptoms can also be present in other developmental disorders, and a formal medical diagnosis should always be made by a qualified healthcare professional. If you have concerns about your child's development, speak with your doctor or a specialist in child development. They can evaluate your child and provide you with a professional assessment.
Yes, absolutely! Autistic kids can absolutely compete with neurotypical kids in a variety of areas. Autistic kids may be different from neurotypical kids in some ways, as autism is a developmental condition that affects how they perceive the world and interact with others. However, it is important to remember that individuals with autism are people first, and they share many commonalities with neurotypical children. For example, both autistic and neurotypical children can have a range of interests, hobbies, and talents that they enjoy. They both have emotions and can experience joy, love, excitement, and empathy. They both have unique personalities and may have traits that are celebrated and appreciated by those around them. While autistic children may have challenges in certain areas, they can also have many strengths and abilities that should be recognized and nurtured. By focusing on their strengths and supporting their challenges, we can help autistic children to reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. With appropriate support and accommodations, individuals with autism can succeed in academic, social, and professional settings. Many individuals with autism have exceptional skills in fields such as science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), music, art, and more. It is important to remember that individuals with autism are unique and may have their own strengths and challenges. They may need different types of support or accommodations to achieve success, but with the right support, they can absolutely compete with and excel alongside their neurotypical peers.
Occupational therapy can help people who have trouble doing things they want or need to do every day, like cooking, getting dressed, or playing. This can happen because of different reasons like having a hard time with feelings or thinking, being hurt, or having a sickness. Occupational therapy helps these people learn new ways to do things and feel better so they can do things they enjoy and feel good about themselves.
Where do Occupational Therapists work?
Occupational therapists help people in many different places like hospitals, schools, and homes. They work with different kinds of people who need help. Where they work depends on the people they help and what they need.
Characteristics of a good Occupational Therapist working with autistics ?
An Occupational Therapist uses clear rules to make sure everyone knows what to do and how to do it well.
Occupational therapists who work with children with Autism help them get the right amount of sensory input by creating a plan called a "sensory diet". This is especially important if the child has complex sensory needs. This is very important for learning in school or college.
They make a good place for a child to concentrate better by reducing things that could cause them to lose focus and improving how long they can pay attention for.
Occupational therapists use mindfulness to help children feel more calm and in charge of their daily routines, so they can avoid feeling stressed or overwhelmed.