Autism is a complex spectrum, and just like every child is unique, so too are the ways in which they experience and express themselves within the spectrum. You may hear comments from relatives and friends when you first discover that your child has autism, claiming that “we’re all a little autistic”, or that some people have mild autism while others have it more severely. In reality, it’s important to understand from the start that the spectrum is not a gradient. It’s not a case of one person with autism will exhibit similar traits to another person with autism, but that those traits could be less or more depending on where they are on the spectrum. 

As parents, caregivers, or educators, it’s essential to recognize and embrace this diversity, understanding that not every child will react the same way to various stimuli or interventions.

Navigating the spectrum together: ABA therapy

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a cornerstone in the journey of understanding and bonding with an autistic child. More often than not, this type of therapy can be beneficial for both the child and their parents. This therapeutic approach focuses on observing and analyzing behaviors, then implementing strategies to promote positive behaviors and reduce challenging ones. Through ABA therapy, parents can gain invaluable insights into their child’s needs and behaviors, which will make it easier for you to bond. 

Loving play therapy

Play is a universal language that transcends barriers, and it plays a pivotal role in bonding with autistic children. Play therapy in autism provides a structured yet flexible environment where children can explore, communicate, and express themselves freely and at their own pace through the medium of playing. As part of a therapy session, play is used to help a child’s development. But parents can also use a similar approach to create a safe space for bonding with their child. 

It’s a two-way street where you learn from each other, building a foundation of trust and connection.

Creating a sensory-friendly environment

If you are new to being an autism parent, you are probably still learning about sensory sensitivity. Sensory sensitivity is a common trait among autistic individuals, with some being easily overstimulated by sensory input while others may seek additional sensory stimulation. Understanding your child’s sensory needs is crucial in creating a supportive environment where they feel comfortable and regulated. But this also allows you to specifically seek bonding activities together that will meet their sensory needs, such as attending sensory-friendly performances for example.

Communication: Finding their unique voice

Communication may manifest differently in autistic children, but it’s essential to recognize that they do communicate in their own way. It could be through verbal language, sign language, picture exchange systems, or nonverbal cues such as gestures, facial expressions, or body language. 

Additionally, an aspect of ABA therapy is also to help your child develop their speech and conversation skills. But in the meantime, you need to be able to recognize that communicating differently is not the same as not communicating at all. Patience, active listening, and using visual supports or alternative communication methods can help you bridge communication gaps.

Being an autism parent can be tricky. But you can still nurture a deep and meaningful bond with your autistic child. Together, we can celebrate diversity, promote inclusion, and build stronger connections that enrich both our lives and theirs.

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