Parenting on the Spectrum: A Survival Guide

Parenting children who fall on the autism spectrum brings a set of challenges most parents are unprepared to address. Research over the last two decades has helped address the learning strengths and needs of children with ASD. This session will provide parents with proactive strategies that can head off issues before they arise perhaps making parenting less stressful, more fulfilling and ultimately more successful. I           Behavior management

A.     addressing communication needs

a.       decreases problem behavior

b.      increases independence

B.     rewards and punishment

II          Physical Space management

A.     whole house organization

a.       dietary issues

b.      sensory issues

c.       toys/games

d.      TV

B.     child’s bedroom organization

III        Schedules and time management            A. visual schedules forever                        1. pictures                       2. print                       3. portability                        4. accessibility

IV        Supporting academics            A. integrated academic and behavior plans           B. proactive planning           

V         Play and Social skill development

A.     Intervention

a.       group

b.      individual

c.       classroom

B.     Pitfalls

a.       Video games

b.      Super heroes

c.       Cartoons/TV

d.      Too many toys

e.       Not enough cognitive challenge