Living with autism
Reflecting on Autism Awareness Month, mother, Kasturie Nadasen speaks about life with an autistic child.
“WORLD Autism Awareness Month is celebrated in April every year, in order to help share knowledge on the neuro-development disorder, which has affected the lives of many people around the world.
As co- founder and chairman of the Autism Awareneness Group and proud parent of an 18-year-old autistic boy, I would like to share some valuable insight on this challenging and complex disorder:
One of the hardest things about parenting a child on the Autism Spectrum is recognising their issues. My son, who is on the spectrum is a very rigid thinker, he needs clear cut definitions of right and wrong. Anything hazy or gray confuses him; for instance, if I try to get him to see that a friend behaved badly, he’ll often get upset with me because a friend is a ‘good guy’ by definition to him.
I credit the Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) with improving my son’s symptoms of autism. I wanted my child to learn the way a neuro-typical child learns, through play and interaction. The idea is to encourage your child to talk and engage. And never punish. All reinforcements are positive. You just ignore or redirect bad behavior, although it is challenging and, at times, frustrating. I find parenting my boy rewarding and a journey that amazes me at every bump and turn. He amazes my family with his charm and wit. He continues to progress every day and he is a happy young man who faces life challenges with a smile.
Parents are often overwhelmed by a child’s Autism Spectrum diagnosis. Some parents experience grief, others are overcome by guilt, and others are angry or determined to cure their child no matter what it takes. You are not alone and your feelings are perfectly understandable.
Autism facts and warning signs
Sooner or later, autism will have an impact on your family, it’s important to learn to be the best advocate you can for your child. Be informed. Take advantage of all the services available in your community. Be careful not to let autism consume every waking hour of your life. Appreciate the small victories your child may achieve.
The Autism Awareness Group formed to assist families in improving the quality of life for people with Autism Spectrum disorders. The vision is to increase public awareness on Autism Spectrum disorders, provide support for families affected by Autism Spectrum disorders and to assist families in gaining access to facilities, therapies and support for the individual.”
