+91- 9444 222850
buddingblossomrehab@gmail.com
+91- 9444 222850
buddingblossomrehab@gmail.com
Parenting a child with autism can feel like a heavy weight on your shoulders, especially when you’re already feeling overwhelmed. And when you’re trying to keep everything “perfect,” it can all get even harder. But I want you to know that it’s okay not to have it all figured out. You’re doing your best, and that matters more than you think.
You don’t need to do everything perfectly. It’s okay if things aren’t always calm or if the day doesn’t go according to plan. Progress might be slow, and that’s perfectly normal. Celebrate the small wins—like a smile, a new word, or a moment of calm—and don’t be too hard on yourself when things get tough.
Scenario:
You’ve planned a perfect afternoon at the park, but as soon as you get there, your child has a meltdown because the swings are too loud. You feel frustrated because you wanted everything to go smoothly. Instead of letting the frustration take over, take a deep breath and adjust. “I know the swings are too loud. Let’s find a quieter spot.” The day may not look like you expected, but it’s still a win because you adapted. You’ve handled the situation with patience and love, and that’s enough.
Having a routine can bring some peace to both you and your child. Kids with autism tend to feel more at ease when they know what’s coming next. So even if it’s just a little structure—like snack time after school or a quiet time before bed—it helps create a sense of stability. And remember, routines don’t have to be rigid. Some flexibility is totally fine.
Scenario:
Mornings are chaotic, and your child struggles with transitions. It’s always a battle to get out the door. You introduce a visual schedule: “First we eat breakfast, then we brush our teeth, then we put on shoes.” One day, your child points to the “put on shoes” picture and starts doing it on their own. You’ve created a sense of structure, and while it’s still a work in progress, the small win brings relief to both of you. You’ve made mornings a little easier with a calm routine.
The world can be full of “don’t do this” and “don’t do that,” but focusing on what your child is doing right can make a huge difference. Whether it’s a small accomplishment or just a moment where they feel comfortable, praise it. That encouragement can mean everything to them—and to you too.
Scenario:
Your child has been struggling socially at school, often isolating themselves. One day, they come home and say, “I played with a friend today.” You respond with enthusiasm: “That’s amazing! I’m so proud of you for talking to your friend!” Even if it feels small, it’s a big step in the right direction. By focusing on these positive moments, you create an environment of encouragement and support.
I know it’s easy to forget about yourself in the hustle and bustle of daily life, but you matter too. Find small moments to breathe, even if it’s just closing your eyes for a minute or stepping outside for a walk. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.
Scenario:
The constant demands of your day are draining. Between therapy appointments, work, and daily routines, you feel like you’re running on empty. After dinner, you let your child play independently for a while and take a 10-minute break in another room. You sit down with a cup of tea, close your eyes, and take a few deep breaths. It may be a small break, but it helps you reset and feel more capable of handling whatever comes next. By taking a moment for yourself, you’re better able to support your child.
You might not always understand why things are happening or why your child is acting the way they are, and that’s okay. Take your time to learn how they communicate and what they need. It’s a journey that takes time and patience, and sometimes the progress is subtle. That doesn’t make it any less important.
Scenario:
You’ve been working on communication with your child for months, and it feels like you haven’t made much progress. One day, they use a new word or gesture, and it feels like a breakthrough. Instead of feeling disheartened by how long it took, you focus on the success: “Look how far we’ve come!” You celebrate the small victories and recognize that every bit of progress matters.
You don’t have to do this alone. Whether it’s reaching out to family, friends, or a professional, don’t hesitate to ask for support. It’s okay to lean on others, and it’s okay to admit that you’re struggling. You’re stronger when you allow yourself to get help.
Scenario:
You’re feeling overwhelmed with the weight of daily responsibilities. You don’t want to burden anyone, but you’re at your limit. You decide to reach out to a friend and ask if they can watch your child for an hour while you take a breather. At first, it feels uncomfortable, but soon you realize how much lighter you feel afterward. You’re able to handle the next part of your day with renewed energy. Asking for help doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re giving yourself the space to recharge.
Some days may feel hard, but remember to celebrate even the smallest moments. A quiet moment together, a new skill learned, or just a peaceful moment can make all the difference in your day.
Scenario:
Your child is working hard on self-regulation, and one day they take a few deep breaths instead of having a meltdown when they’re upset. You make a big deal out of it: “I’m so proud of you for using your words and taking deep breaths!” Celebrating these small moments encourages your child to keep using these strategies, and reinforces the positive behavior. It might seem small, but it’s a huge step in the right direction.
If things ever feel too overwhelming, it’s okay to create a calm space for your child to retreat to. Maybe it’s a corner with soft pillows, dim lights, or their favourite stuffed animal. It’s okay for them to have a safe space to unwind, and it’s okay for you to have one too.
Scenario:
After a long, busy day at school, your child is overstimulated and acting out. Instead of getting frustrated, you guide them to their calming space—perhaps a quiet corner with soft pillows, a favorite blanket, and dim lighting. You sit with them for a moment, offering gentle support. After a while, they feel more relaxed and ready to re-engage. Having this peaceful space gives your child a safe haven when emotions run high, and it’s a tool you both can rely on to get through challenging moments.
Remember, you’re doing an amazing job. It’s easy to get caught up in what you feel you should be doing, but don’t forget to give yourself credit for the love, patience, and effort you pour into your child every single day. Perfection doesn’t exist, but love and consistency? Those are everything. Keep going at your own pace, and know that you’re enough—just as you are
Click here to unlock more tips and support as you continue your path toward better communication. Your child’s voice is waiting to be heard, and together, we can help make it happen!