hashes dskdbdkjdbMy child has been diagnosed with autism, what now?

hashes dskdbdkjdbMy child has been diagnosed with autism, what now?

My child has been diagnosed with autism, what now?

After a diagnosis of autism, most parents are unsure what next steps to take while they are awaiting early intervention to start. There are many steps you can take to help prepare your home for a good start to your early intervention.

Creating an environment at home that is conducive to early intervention can make a world of difference in helping your child thrive.

This practical guide is full of tips that will support you in achieving clarity and starting up swiftly and easily to support your child in their learning journey.

When you start early intervention, no matter where your child’s communication needs are, teaching them to communicate effectively is paramount and your first aim. There are pre-teaching preparation you will need to establish at home:

1. Get organised:

• Go through your child’s toys and categorise them all. You will need clear boxes where you can place toys in so that your child can see them but can not get them without asking you for them first. Thus, teaching them to communicate their needs.

• Separate all boxes into relevant categories and make a label for reach of them. For example, have a box for vehicles, another one for puzzles, another one for fine motor toys, one for all colouring materials, sensory toys box.

• Choose an area in your home where sessions can take place quietly and free of distractions.

• Keep the space tidy with all necessary materials is easily accessible such as favorite books on a bookshelf, sensory toys in a clear box, vehicles in a box or on a shelf.

• Create a welcoming and comfortable space for your child to want to be in. Have soft toys available, mats, bean bags and blankets your child likes to have around to touch or lie down on.

2. Gather necessary supplies:

• You will certainly need some visual aids, picture cards and books to help you teach your child expressive and receptive language skills they need. So make sure you have bought:

  • A printer

  • Laminator

  • Scissors

  • Glue

  • Have access to internet

• Specific educational toys to teach early play skills and language:

  • Early years books such as 100 picture books, soft books, baby books.

  • Inset Puzzles and jigsaw puzzles

  • Thick colouring crayons

  • Painting materials

  • Paper

  • Shape sorter

  • Musical instruments

  • Building blocks

  • Cause and effect toys such as any toy features levers, buttons, knobs that your child can press, pull or turn then get an effect.

3. Start taking notes

• Observe your child daily and take notes on what they enjoy doing. This will be helpful when you try to interact with them.

• Note what types of toys they are mostly likely to play with most. Do they like vehicles, puzzles or toys that provide sensory feedback.

• Watch their behaviour around specific toys and items around the house. Are they engaging in the same play over and over again with the same toy or do they reproduce the same behaviour with other items too. This will help you figure out how you can approach them at a later stage when you are planning to become their communication partner to encourage interaction with you during play.

Preparing your home for early intervention not only supports your child's development but also creates a nurturing environment where they can feel secure and motivated. By thoughtfully setting up a designated space, gathering necessary supplies, establishing routines, and fostering communication, you can make a positive impact on your child's progress. Remember, small changes can make a big difference in helping your child thrive.

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