My ASD Child

Introduction: The Screen as Sanctuary For many autistic teenagers, technology isn’t just entertainment—it’s oxygen. It’s how they decompress, communicate, explore interests, and feel competent in a world that often overwhelms them. Parents, however, frequently experience this relationship with technology as a battleground. You may watch your teen spend hours on their phone, scrolling, gaming, or coding, and wonder, Is this healthy? Should I limit it? Am I losing my child to a screen? Before answering those questions, it’s important to understand the unique role technology plays for autistic teens. Screens can serve as both refuge and risk, offering safety and stimulation while sometimes deepening isolation or anxiety. The goal isn’t to eliminate technology—it’s to help your teen use it in ways that soothe, connect, and empower rather than consume. This chapter explores the emotional, neurological, and relational functions of technology for autistic teens. We’ll examine how to transf...

Technology has become one of the defining features of teenage life. For autistic adolescents, screens, games, and online communities often carry even deeper significance. A video game may be more than just entertainment—it may be a structured world with clear rules that feels safer than unpredictable social interactions. Online platforms may be the first places where an autistic teen finds like‑minded friends who share their passions. But parents often feel caught between appreciation and alarm. Hours spent gaming can crowd out family time, homework, or sleep. Online risks, including cyberbullying or unsafe interactions, raise valid concerns. Parents may worry: “Is my child addicted to gaming? Or is this their way of coping and connecting?” This chapter explores how parents can understand their teen’s relationship with technology, set compassionate boundaries, and transform screens from a source of conflict into an opportunity for growth. Why Technology Holds Such Appeal for Autist...

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is classified into three levels based on the complexity of symptoms and the degree of support an individual requires. This classification helps to understand the functional capabilities of those on the spectrum and ensures that they receive appropriate interventions. Below is a comprehensive comparison of ASD Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. ### ASD Level 1: Requiring Support **Characteristics:** - Individuals diagnosed with Level 1 ASD typically exhibit mild symptoms that allow for some degree of independence. They can engage in conversations and maintain relationships, but they may find certain social contexts challenging. - Communication may often be characterized by difficulties in starting conversations or responding appropriately in social exchanges. For instance, an individual might initiate small talk but struggle to respond to follow-up questions, thereby disrupting the conversational flow. - These individuals can struggle to interpret social cues ...

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...

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by a broad spectrum of challenges that significantly influence an individual's ability to communicate, interact socially, and behave in a conventional manner.    The complexities of ASD can lead to a variety of behavioral issues, particularly in school environments where social expectations are often heightened. This article delves deeply into the behavioral challenges associated with ASD in schools, examining their nature, impacts on learning, and effective strategies for support and intervention. ### Key Characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder ASD encompasses a wide variety of symptoms that can manifest differently in each individual. Understanding these characteristics is not just crucial, but empowering for educators and peers alike, as it equips them with the knowledge to provide effective support. 1. **Difficulties in Social Communication**: Children with ASD often face significant hurdles...