My ASD Child

Addressing hitting behavior in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be a complex task for parents and caregivers. However, with a deeper understanding of the underlying causes and proactive strategies, it is possible to help children express themselves more appropriately. This article will provide specific methods to identify triggers, enhance communication skills, employ behavior modification techniques, and teach emotional regulation. #### Understanding the Behavior 1. **Identify Triggers and Contexts**:     - Children with ASD may hit due to various triggers, such as frustration, sensory overload, impulsivity, or communication difficulties. To effectively reduce hitting, it is essential to carefully observe and note the circumstances surrounding each incident. Keep a detailed log that includes the time of day, setting, activities involved, and interactions leading up to the aggressive behavior. For example, a child may hit when waiting too long for their tu...

Navigating the tumultuous waters of adolescence is challenging for any teenager, but it can be particularly daunting for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Aggressive behaviors may surface during this critical developmental phase for a variety of reasons, including difficulties in communication, sensory overload, significant changes in routine, and struggles with emotional regulation.  Understanding the roots of these aggressive tendencies and developing practical strategies to manage them can create a more harmonious environment for both teens and their families. Below is a comprehensive guide designed to assist parents, caregivers, and educators in addressing aggression in teens with ASD. Understanding the Roots of Aggression: The Key to Empowerment To effectively address aggressive outbursts, it’s crucial to identify and understand their underlying triggers: 1. **Communication Barriers**: Teens with ASD often experience challenges in articulating their feelings or needs ...

Question My eldest boy J___ who is now 5-years-old was diagnosed with ASD (level 1) last July. We did 6 months of intense therapy with a child psychologist and a speech therapist before we moved over to Ghana. J___ has settled in well. He has adjusted to school very well and the teachers who are also expats from England are also dealing with him extremely well. My current issue is his anger. At the moment if the situations are not done exactly his way he has a meltdown. Symptoms are: Extreme ear piercing screaming, intense crying, to falling down on the floor saying he is going to die. I have tried to tell him to breathe but his meltdown is so intense that his body just can't listen to words. I then have asked him to go to his room to calm down. He sometimes (very rarely) throws things across the room, but does not physically hurt anyone. As I have two younger boys (ages 1 and 3) I still need to be aware of their safety. I then managed to put J___ in his room...

"Is aggression typically a trait of teens with ASD? I'm a single parent and my 17 y.o. son is becoming more verbally and physically aggressive and I do not know if this will escalate to dangerous levels."   Adolescents with ASD (high-functioning autism) are often not found to be physically aggressive unless they feel threatened in some manner.    For some young people on the spectrum, aggression may become quite common when reaching adolescence, and this may be clearly influenced by the parenting styles of the mother and/or father.    Also, if your son is on the receiving end of teasing, bullying and peer-rejection at school, then aggression and shutdowns can be expected either at home or school (or both).   One of the key factors in determining an ASD youngster's tendency to develop aggression later in life may involve the presence of a maternally sensitive woman who can balance the discipline and aggression in life. In many of today's families, it ...

Children with ASD (high functioning autism) will respond quite well to specific classroom adaptations. Here are the recommended methods teachers can employ with their "special needs" students:  Implement Creative Programming - Through the student’s IEP, educators can develop class schedules which will be motivating and challenging to the student while addressing his/her needs. Intervene Early - The earlier intervention begins, the earlier children can learn the needed skills for adulthood and friendship. Obtain In-Depth Training - Learn the differences among the kids with ASD in elementary, middle school and high school. Recognize Children’ Strengths - Many children with ASD will go on to make great contributions to society. However, we must tap into their strengths and offer support so that they do not drop out of school because academic and social demands are too high. Understand How Social Impairments Impact Learning and Peer Relationships - Some children require...