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Showing posts sorted by relevance for query parental stress. Sort by date Show all posts

The Best Parental Control Apps for iPhone Without VPN Reliance

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, ensuring the safety of children while they navigate online spaces is more crucial than ever for parents. With the myriad of parental control apps available for iPhone, it can be quite daunting to find the right one—especially those that do not rely on a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for their monitoring and filtering capabilities. VPN-based solutions can introduce complexities and limitations that may hinder the effectiveness of these apps. Below, we explore some of the top parental control applications that deliver robust features without requiring a VPN.

#### 1. **Qustodio**

Qustodio stands out as one of the most comprehensive parental control solutions on the market. With its straightforward design, this app allows parents to monitor their children's online activities with ease. It provides real-time tracking of web browsing habits, app usage, and screen time. Parents can set specific time limits for daily device use, filter out inappropriate content, and receive detailed activity reports that summarize kids’ interactions with various online platforms. Notably, Qustodio’s alerts regarding suspicious activity ensure that parents stay informed about their children’s online safety without the need for complex VPN configurations.

#### 2. **Bark**

Bark is a sophisticated parental control app that leverages advanced algorithms to monitor children’s texts, emails, and social media accounts for signs of distress or inappropriate content, such as cyberbullying, sexting, or potential dangers. Unlike VPN-dependent solutions, Bark operates seamlessly in the background, analyzing conversations and providing critical alerts when concerning keywords are detected. Additionally, Bark offers features like screen time management, web filtering, and location tracking, empowering parents with various tools to nurture their children’s safety in digital environments.

#### 3. **Net Nanny**

Net Nanny has been a trusted name in parental control for many years, known for its rich offering of features designed to create a safe online atmosphere. This app equips parents with powerful web filtering capabilities, allowing for the blocking of harmful websites and inappropriate content. Its intuitive interface presents an organized dashboard where parents can adjust settings, review online activity reports, and set screen time limits effortlessly. The cloud-based technology ensures real-time updates, keeping parents informed without the complications often associated with VPN connections.

#### 4. **FamilyTime**

FamilyTime excels with its versatile suite of tools that cater to various aspects of digital parenting. This app includes features like geofencing, which notifies parents when their child enters or exits designated areas. Additionally, FamilyTime allows for the blocking of certain apps and websites, along with the ability to set specific usage schedules for device access. This is particularly useful for managing homework time and family time effectively. Its non-VPN structure ensures smooth operation, making it easy for parents to monitor and manage their children’s smartphone use without added layers of complexity.

#### 5. **OurPact**

OurPact provides a unique blend of parental control tools that emphasize time management along with content filtering. With this app, parents can create personalized schedules for device use, effectively limiting screen time during study hours or bedtime. The app also allows for easy blocking and granting of access to specific apps with just a tap. OurPact’s visual interface is not only appealing but also user-friendly, making it an excellent choice for families looking to streamline their digital parenting approach without the need for VPN enhancements.

#### 6. **Kaspersky Safe Kids**

Kaspersky Safe Kids adds another layer of safety by integrating features that go beyond basic parental controls. In addition to monitoring online activity, the app provides insights into the child's device status — including battery levels and active apps — which can be particularly handy for parents. Kaspersky's capabilities also include managing screen time, blocking harmful websites, and providing location tracking services. Importantly, the app features educational resources designed to educate children about safe internet practices, fostering responsible digital citizenship alongside monitoring.

### Conclusion

Selecting the right parental control app is vital for protecting children in the digital realm. The applications highlighted above offer excellent monitoring and filtering functionalities without needing a VPN, making them user-friendly and effective. Each option comes with unique attributes designed to cater to various parenting styles and family needs. It’s essential to not only utilize these tools but also engage in open, honest conversations with children about why such measures are in place; this practice helps build trust and encourages responsible behavior online. As digital landscapes continue to evolve, these parental controls are indispensable in aiding parents to foster a secure online experience for their children.

 
 
More articles for parents of children and teens on the autism spectrum:
 
Social rejection has devastating effects in many areas of functioning. Because the ASD child tends to internalize how others treat him, rejection damages self-esteem and often causes anxiety and depression. As the child feels worse about himself and becomes more anxious and depressed – he performs worse, socially and intellectually.

Click here to read the full article…

---------------------------------------------------------------

Meltdowns are not a pretty sight. They are somewhat like overblown temper tantrums, but unlike tantrums, meltdowns can last anywhere from ten minutes to over an hour. When it starts, the Asperger's or HFA child is totally out-of-control. When it ends, both you and your child are totally exhausted. But... don’t breathe a sigh of relief yet. At the least provocation, for the remainder of that day -- and sometimes into the next - the meltdown can return in full force.

Click here for the full article...

--------------------------------------------------------------

Although Aspergers [high-functioning autism] is at the milder end of the autism spectrum, the challenges parents face when disciplining a teenager on the spectrum are more difficult than they would be with an average teen. Complicated by defiant behavior, the teen is at risk for even greater difficulties on multiple levels – unless the parents’ disciplinary techniques are tailored to their child's special needs.

Click here to read the full article…

------------------------------------------------------------

Your older teenager or young “adult child” isn’t sure what to do, and he is asking you for money every few days. How do you cut the purse strings and teach him to be independent? Parents of teens with ASD face many problems that other parents do not. Time is running out for teaching their adolescent how to become an independent adult. As one mother put it, "There's so little time, yet so much left to do."

Click here to read the full article…

------------------------------------------------------------

Two traits often found in kids with High-Functioning Autism are “mind-blindness” (i.e., the inability to predict the beliefs and intentions of others) and “alexithymia” (i.e., the inability to identify and interpret emotional signals in others). These two traits reduce the youngster’s ability to empathize with peers. As a result, he or she may be perceived by adults and other children as selfish, insensitive and uncaring.

Click here to read the full article...

------------------------------------------------------------

Become an expert in helping your child cope with his or her “out-of-control” emotions, inability to make and keep friends, stress, anger, thinking errors, and resistance to change.

Click here for the full article...
 
------------------------------------------------------------
 
A child with High-Functioning Autism (HFA) can have difficulty in school because, since he fits in so well, many adults may miss the fact that he has a diagnosis. When these children display symptoms of their disorder, they may be seen as defiant or disruptive.

Click here for the full article...
By

Understanding the Relationship Between Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Insecure Attachment

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and attachment theory are fundamental concepts in psychology that together shed light on the complexities of human development, particularly in the context of social interactions and emotional well-being. ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects an individual’s ability to communicate effectively and engage in social relationships, while attachment theory addresses the profound impact of early bonds formed between children and their caregivers. One of the significant concerns arising in children with ASD is the tendency towards insecure attachment—an issue that can seriously affect emotional health and social integration throughout their lives.


### A Deep Dive into Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)


Autism Spectrum Disorder encompasses a wide array of neurodevelopmental challenges, manifesting in varying degrees of severity and a diverse range of symptoms. Key characteristics often include difficulties in verbal and nonverbal communication, challenges in establishing and maintaining social relationships, and repetitive or restricted patterns of behavior and interests. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) outlines specific criteria for diagnosing ASD, and early identification is crucial. Interventions can be most effective when implemented during the early years, as they facilitate better long-term outcomes in communication skills, social interactions, and daily functioning.


Children with ASD may exhibit a range of behaviors such as limited eye contact, an aversion to physical touch, or an intense focus on specific topics or interests. These behaviors can sometimes create a barrier to forming connections with peers and caregivers, making social situations particularly daunting. As a result, many children with ASD may feel isolated or misunderstood, which can further exacerbate the difficulties they face in developing meaningful relationships.


### Exploring Insecure Attachment


Attachment theory, pioneered by the psychologist John Bowlby, underscores the critical nature of early emotional bonds formed in childhood. Secure attachment is characterized by a child's ability to trust their caregiver, fostering a sense of security that enables them to explore their world with confidence. Conversely, insecure attachment manifests in various ways—each presenting unique challenges for emotional development:


- **Avoidant Attachment:** Children with avoidant attachment may show indifference towards their caregivers. They might refuse comfort, downplay the significance of their relationships, and appear emotionally detached, often leading to a significant lack of intimacy in personal connections.


- **Anxious Attachment:** Those with anxious attachment typically display clinginess and hyper-vigilance regarding their caregiver's availability. They may become excessively distressed at the prospect of separation, fearing abandonment and demonstrating heightened emotional reactivity and anxiety.


- **Disorganized Attachment:** This type arises from inconsistent or frightening behavior exhibited by caregivers, creating confusion and fear in the child. As a result, these children might demonstrate erratic behaviors, oftentimes seeking affection but also retreating in fear, leading to chaotic relational patterns.


### The Intricate Relationship Between ASD and Insecure Attachment


Research indicates a complex interplay between ASD and patterns of attachment. There are several factors that contribute to the development of insecure attachment in children with ASD:


1. **Communication Challenges:** Children with ASD often struggle with both verbal and nonverbal communication skills. This difficulty hinders their ability to express emotions and needs effectively, leading to misunderstandings and, ultimately, a breakdown in the caregiver-child relationship.


2. **Social Interaction Deficits:** As social interactions can be particularly challenging for children with ASD, caregivers may struggle to read their child's social cues, resulting in a disconnect. This may lead caregivers to inadvertently respond inconsistently, which can reinforce feelings of insecurity in the child.


3. **Repetitive Behaviors:** The pronounced focus on certain activities or interests can detract from emotional exchanges between caregivers and children. For instance, a child engrossed in a repetitive task may not seek comfort during distress, which can cause caregivers to be unsure of when their child actually needs support.


4. **Parental Stress:** The immense stress and pressure that often accompany raising a child with ASD can impede caregivers’ emotional availability. High levels of parental stress might result in less responsive and nurturing interactions, contributing to the development of insecure attachment patterns.


### Strategies for Promoting Secure Attachment in Children with ASD


Although navigating the challenges associated with ASD and insecure attachment can be daunting, there are effective strategies to help foster secure attachment:


1. **Responsive and Consistent Parenting:** Caregivers should make a conscious effort to respond to their child's needs with sensitivity and consistency. This creates a sense of safety and reliability, encouraging children to reach out and explore their emotions.


2. **Enhancing Communication Skills:** Utilizing tools such as visual aids, social stories, and alternative communication methods (like sign language or picture exchange systems) can significantly enhance communication. These strategies empower children to express their feelings, desires, and needs more effectively.


3. **Structured Environments:** Establishing routines and predictable schedules can provide children with ASD a sense of security. By knowing what to expect, children are more likely to feel confident and secure in their surroundings, reducing anxiety levels.


4. **Professional Guidance and Support:** Engaging with qualified therapists who specialize in both ASD and attachment theory can provide tailored interventions. Such professionals can offer families the tools they need to enhance attachment security while addressing the unique challenges of ASD.


The relationship between Autism Spectrum Disorder and insecure attachment is an intricate and critical area of study, especially considering the long-term implications for emotional and social development. By understanding these dynamics, caregivers and professionals can collaborate to create supportive, nurturing environments that encourage secure attachments. With the right interventions and support in place, children with ASD can develop the emotional resilience necessary to foster meaningful relationships and lead fulfilling lives as adults. By prioritizing secure attachment, we can help children with ASD navigate their emotions and social interactions more effectively, ultimately enhancing their overall quality of life.



 
 
More articles for parents of children and teens on the autism spectrum:
 
Social rejection has devastating effects in many areas of functioning. Because the ASD child tends to internalize how others treat him, rejection damages self-esteem and often causes anxiety and depression. As the child feels worse about himself and becomes more anxious and depressed – he performs worse, socially and intellectually.

Click here to read the full article…

---------------------------------------------------------------

Meltdowns are not a pretty sight. They are somewhat like overblown temper tantrums, but unlike tantrums, meltdowns can last anywhere from ten minutes to over an hour. When it starts, the Asperger's or HFA child is totally out-of-control. When it ends, both you and your child are totally exhausted. But... don’t breathe a sigh of relief yet. At the least provocation, for the remainder of that day -- and sometimes into the next - the meltdown can return in full force.

Click here for the full article...

--------------------------------------------------------------

Although Aspergers [high-functioning autism] is at the milder end of the autism spectrum, the challenges parents face when disciplining a teenager on the spectrum are more difficult than they would be with an average teen. Complicated by defiant behavior, the teen is at risk for even greater difficulties on multiple levels – unless the parents’ disciplinary techniques are tailored to their child's special needs.

Click here to read the full article…

------------------------------------------------------------

Your older teenager or young “adult child” isn’t sure what to do, and he is asking you for money every few days. How do you cut the purse strings and teach him to be independent? Parents of teens with ASD face many problems that other parents do not. Time is running out for teaching their adolescent how to become an independent adult. As one mother put it, "There's so little time, yet so much left to do."

Click here to read the full article…

------------------------------------------------------------

Two traits often found in kids with High-Functioning Autism are “mind-blindness” (i.e., the inability to predict the beliefs and intentions of others) and “alexithymia” (i.e., the inability to identify and interpret emotional signals in others). These two traits reduce the youngster’s ability to empathize with peers. As a result, he or she may be perceived by adults and other children as selfish, insensitive and uncaring.

Click here to read the full article...

------------------------------------------------------------

Become an expert in helping your child cope with his or her “out-of-control” emotions, inability to make and keep friends, stress, anger, thinking errors, and resistance to change.

Click here for the full article...
 
------------------------------------------------------------
 
A child with High-Functioning Autism (HFA) can have difficulty in school because, since he fits in so well, many adults may miss the fact that he has a diagnosis. When these children display symptoms of their disorder, they may be seen as defiant or disruptive.

Click here for the full article...
By

Raising a Child on the Autism Spectrum: The Impact on the Family

A diagnosis of Asperger’s (AS) or High-Functioning (HFA) not only changes the life of the youngster diagnosed, but also that of parents and siblings. Many moms and dads of an AS or HFA youngster must deal with a significant amount of stress related to expensive therapies and treatments, therapy schedules, home treatments, managing job responsibilities, and juggling family commitments.

While some children on the spectrum and their families cope well with the additional challenges that autism brings, for many others, the impact can be overwhelming.  Children with AS and HFA face many issues (e.g., the persistent challenge of trying to “fit-in” with their peer group, frustration at not being able to express how they feel, daily anxiety because they can’t make sense of what is happening around them, etc.). As a result, these kids often develop stress-reducing behaviors that can make them appear odd and/or defiant. Some moms and dads even avoid taking their “special needs” youngster out to public places rather than face the reactions from those who don’t understand the disorder. This may cause not only the autistic youngster, but the entire family to become housebound.



Other stressors that often impact family life in various adverse ways include the following:

Financial Impact—

Parents of AS and HFA kids may face a significant financial burden. Autism-related expenses for treatment and therapies are very costly and may not be covered by some private health insurers. The copays moms and dads incur for office visits and medications may lead to financial debt. According to research, parents with an autistic youngster undergo an average loss of 14% in their entire family income. Working full-time becomes difficult for both the mother and father. So, they have to endure the increased expenses in spite of having a lowered household income. Full-time employment is crucial for providing health insurance. Thus, losing a full-time job often severely affects the family’s financial status.

==> Teaching Social Skills and Emotion Management to Children and Teens with Asperger's and High-Functioning Autism

Sibling Impact—

A youngster with AS or HFA also affects his “neurotypical” (i.e., non-autistic) brothers and sisters. The siblings experience many of the same stressors faced by their parents. In addition, moms and dads may not be able to offer them full parental-support, because they are engulfed in meeting the needs of the “special needs” youngster. These families often experience a more intense form of sibling rivalry than is seen in “typical” families. Then there is the challenge of trying to reduce the jealousy and resentment that results when so much attention is focused on one youngster, as well as the frequent limitations on doing common family activities.

Brothers and sisters of an AS or HFA child may suffer from being in a stressful environment, are often unable to socialize because of the difficulties at home, and may be unable to go out as a family. Some siblings become care-takers for their “special needs” sibling in an effort to help their mom and dad.

Parents and professionals alike often lose sight of the need to help siblings understand the disorder. These siblings need an opportunity to voice their questions, concerns, and emotions. An important issue is helping them identify their negative feelings as “normal” and reduce the guilt that often complicates their behavior toward their sibling. Learning that they are not alone in their situations and in their feelings is vital to a healthy attitude and the ability to cope. Thus, support groups for siblings of autistic kids can be very helpful.

Marital Impact—

A study in the Journal of Family Psychology states that moms and dads of kids on the autism spectrum had a 9.7% greater chance of getting divorced than other married couples. Marital stressors often include: financial stress, trying to find appropriate childcare, accepting their youngster’s diagnosis at different times and in different ways (which causes conflict), and not having time to spend together due to numerous commitments and inconsistent schedules.

Kids with “special needs” can drain enormous amounts of time, energy, and money. Marital problems are reported to be present to a greater degree because of the lack of time for nurturing the marriage – plus the frequent problem of moms and dads disagreeing on what needs to be done for the youngster.

Another source of marital stress is that often one parent is more effective in managing the difficult behaviors of the AS or HFA child. The reduced couple’s “quality time” together is especially problematic, because there is more that needs to be discussed and dealt with (e.g., feelings of grief and disappointment) that may never get processed. The ability to enjoy the positive features of the “special needs” youngster and to grasp what all family members gain from having to address the autism-related challenges can only take place after having grieved the loss of what parents and siblings had expected from that youngster at birth.

The first step to sorting out the difficulties arising in the marriage is understanding the way autism affects it. Family counseling can help moms and dads deal with communication and marital problems. Parents should also consider joining support groups where they can meet other moms and dads with autistic kids. Also, they must take care of themselves too, besides caring for their “special needs” youngster.




Emotional Impact—

Autism brings with it a lot of emotional ups and downs for the all family members, which start prior to the diagnosis and continue indefinitely. A study in the journal “Pediatrics” states that moms of kids on the spectrum often rated their status of mental health as fair or poor. Compared with the general population, their stress level was much higher. Besides having higher stress levels, moms of AS and HFA kids may experience:
  • Anger at themselves, spouse, or doctors
  • Despair because of the disorder’s incurable nature
  • Embarrassment over their youngster’s behavior in public
  • Feeling overwhelmed
  • Feeling socially isolated
  • Frustration at the difference between the parenting experience they are having and the one they had envisioned
  • Guilt from thinking that they may be responsible for their youngster’s disorder
  • Resentment toward their youngster – yet guilt due to the resentment

Moms and dads can become isolated, depressed, and emotionally and physically exhausted from looking after their AS or HFA youngster – and fighting for support. They may feel judged by society, guilty that their youngster is missing out on friendships due to social skills deficits, and frustrated at not knowing how best to help their child.  In some families, at least one parent can’t work due to care-taking responsibilities, which puts a financial burden on the family.  Often, AS and HFA children have disturbed sleep patterns, so they need constant supervision, which is physically exhausting.  As the child grows up, he may become too strong to handle if he throws a temper tantrum.  Some moms and dads believe that they will be the primary care-taker for life, and they are often worried about what will happen to their “special needs” youngster when they die.

The AS or HFA youngster may miss out on valuable social, educational, leisure and life experiences that others his age take for granted. As a result, the child’s confidence and self-esteem deteriorates, which may lead to depression and other mental health problems. Teens on the autism spectrum are especially vulnerable, often being bullied by their classmates or excluded from their peer group. For older teens, the transition into adulthood is just as bleak, because many do not have the social and communication skills needed to live independently or get a job. Many times, these teens simply stay at home or walk the streets through most of their adult lives, and a few tragically break the law and commit crimes often related to their lack of social understanding.

==> Teaching Social Skills and Emotion Management to Children and Teens with Asperger's and High-Functioning Autism

On a Positive Note—

Here’s the good news: Children on the autism spectrum have many more strengths than weaknesses. Parenting these children has many positives that outweigh the negatives. So, if you're troubled from hearing about all the "deficits" challenging children with AS and HFA – join the club! But for every downside, there is an upside. These positives are worth celebrating. Here a just a few examples:

They Are Less Materialistic— Of course, this is not universally true, but in general, children with AS and HFA are far less concerned with outward appearance than their “typical” peers. As a result, they worry less about brand names, hairstyles and other expensive, but unimportant, externals than most children and teens do.

They Are Not Tied to Social Expectations— If you've ever bought a car, played a game or joined a club to fit in, you know how hard it is to be true to yourself. But for children with AS and HFA, social expectations can be honestly irrelevant. What really matters to them is true liking, interest and passion -- not keeping up with the current trends and fads.

They are Passionate— Of course, not all AS and HFA children are alike. But many are truly passionate about the things, ideas and special interests in their lives. How many "typical" children can say the same?

They Have Terrific Memories— How often do typical children forget directions, or fail to take note of colors, names, and other details? Children with AS and HFA are often much more tuned in to details. They may have a much better memory than their typical peers for all kind of critical details.

They Live in the Moment— How often do typical children fail to notice what's in front of their eyes because they're distracted by social cues or random chitchat? Children with AS and HFA truly attend to the sensory input that surrounds them. Many have achieved the ideal of mindfulness.

They Play Fewer Head Games— Most AS and HFA children don't play games -- and they assume that you won't either. It's a refreshing and wonderful change from the typical B.S. that tarnishes too many typical relationships!

They Rarely Judge Others— Who's in better shape? Richer? Smarter? For children with AS and HFA, these distinctions hold much less importance than for typical kids. In fact, they often see through such surface appearances to discover the real person.

They Rarely Lie— We all claim to value the truth, but almost all of us tell little white lies …all, that is, except children with AS and HFA. To them, truth is truth -- and a good word from a child on the spectrum is usually the real deal.

As one 12-year-old boy on the spectrum stated, “I'm glad that some people recognize the strengths of Asperger's syndrome. People shouldn't look at us as just weird. They should know our positive traits too.”


More resources for parents of children and teens with High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's:

==> How To Prevent Meltdowns and Tantrums In Children With High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's

 ==> Parenting System that Significantly Reduces Defiant Behavior in Teens with Aspergers and High-Functioning Autism

 ==> Launching Adult Children with Asperger's and High-Functioning Autism: Guide for Parents Who Want to Promote Self-Reliance

 ==> Parenting Children and Teens with High-Functioning Autism: Comprehensive Handbook

==> Unraveling The Mystery Behind Asperger's and High-Functioning Autism: Audio Book
By

Raising Kids on the Spectrum: Dealing with Parental Stress

Of course, not all moms and dads of children with ASD level 1, or high functioning autism (HFA), are under stress, but many are. As one mother states, “You learn to live with a significant amount of stress and you throw yourself into your everyday job as a parent when you have a youngster with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. If you work outside the home, you work even harder - and you don't think much about taking care of yourself.”
 
Click here for the full article...
By

The Role of Environment in the Psychiatric Difficulties of Kids on the Spectrum

In a multitude of ways, the environment affects children with Asperger’s and high-functioning autism (HFA), and is a major factor that influences the severity of comorbid psychiatric disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, Tourette Syndrome, personality disorders, ODD, etc.).

Undeniably, the varied expression of psychiatric problems in kids with Asperger’s and HFA is directly related to environmental factors, which suggests the opportunity for planning various interventions. For example, family and daily routines should be considered as environmental factors that can lead to exacerbation (i.e., an increase in severity) or amelioration (i.e., a decrease in severity) of comorbid disorders.



The challenge of understanding the special needs of Asperger’s and HFA kids, and the problems associated with building a close relationship with them, often contributes to increased stress in their moms and dads. Parents of kids on the autism spectrum have been shown to have a reduced sense of happiness and security, and tend to display a general lower quality of life – even in comparison with parents of kids with other disorders (e.g., cerebral palsy or mental retardation). Furthermore, moms were found to experience a higher level of stress than dads, and this higher stress is often related to unusual behavioral traits of the youngster (e.g., hyperactivity, conduct problems, etc.).

==> Parenting System that Significantly Reduces Defiant Behavior in Teens with Aspergers and High-Functioning Autism


Other research reports elevated rates of anxiety-related personality traits among the relatives (e.g., siblings, grandparents, etc.) of kids on the spectrum. Moreover, elevated anxiety levels in the moms and dads of these young people can be considered an important environmental factor that can trigger genetically-determined personality traits that are eventually shared with other family members and constitute a genetic family-loading for psychiatric disorders.

The importance of environmental factors in the expression of psychiatric symptoms was investigated in a sample of young people with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), including children with Asperger’s and their siblings, with an evaluation reported independently by parents and educators. Reports by educators showed a much lower prevalence of comorbidity in these children (in particular for somatic, oppositional, conduct, attention, anxiety, and affective problems) as compared to the reports by their moms and dads. These results support the idea that the expression of psychiatric problems in kids with Asperger’s varies depending on the environmental context, and that their identification depends on the type of observer (in this case, teacher versus parent).

There is often a lack of consensus between the reports of parents and educators regarding the behavioral characteristics of kids with Asperger’s and HFA, hence suggesting that caution should be used when making conclusions about the presence of comorbid psychiatric difficulties based simply on the environmental context or a single informant source. Instead, information should be gathered from multiple sources and settings, including direct observation by therapists.

The problems that the youngster experiences in terms of social relationships are even greater outside of the home environment (e.g., school, church, scouts, etc.). The lack of adequate teacher-parent communication, coordination among social service providers, and social support often leaves the parents alone with the burden of providing a more intensive level of care and any additional support.

Unfortunately, schools are not always equipped to deal with the unique needs of the Asperger’s or HFA student, and this often drives him or her to develop feelings of low self-esteem, sadness, and self-blame, which often leads to other problems (e.g., meltdowns, depression, hyperactivity, conduct problems, etc.).

Research has also reported that negative events (e.g., parental discord, frequent changes of own residence, death of a family member, etc.) have significant influence on the youngster’s mood and functioning – and have been associated with clinical depression. These children tend to react to negative life events more severely (and in a different way) than “typical” children do. HFA students are also more vulnerable to developing mood disorders and depressive symptoms than other children (which may be correlated to a genetic predisposition).

Since environmental factors appear to substantially influence the expression of psychiatric comorbidities in children on the spectrum, more attention should be focused on the interactions between these children and their diverse everyday life events. Parents, teachers, and professionals can develop coping strategies and provide a better social support that may contribute to a decrease in the incidence of psychiatric disorders in Asperger’s children.

==> Parenting System that Significantly Reduces Defiant Behavior in Teens with Aspergers and High-Functioning Autism


There are numerous accommodations that parents can make to help their child cope effectively with his or her environment. Here are just a few:
  1. Allow more time to complete chores, homework, etc.
  2. Avoid being critical and negative toward your youngster.
  3. Avoid over-scheduling him and allow him free time to play, read, listen to music, or just relax.
  4. Avoid placing unrealistic expectations on your child.
  5. Break tasks down into a few small steps (no more than 5) that can be completed one at a time so that your youngster does not feel overwhelmed with the task. For example, “It’s time to clean your room. So, put your clean clothes in this drawer. Pick up your dirty clothes off the floor and put them in this laundry basket. Then take the basket to the laundry room.”
  6. Create a special signal (e.g., tapping the tip of your nose) that you can use with your youngster to redirect his attention back to what you are saying whenever necessary.
  7. Demonstrate active interest in your youngster’s school progress and support her with her learning and homework.
  8. Encourage physical activity and healthy eating habits.
  9. Have a crisis plan in place in the case of meltdowns (e.g., due to your child’s sensory sensitivities, due to his inability to cope or interact with siblings, etc.). This plan may include providing a quiet place for your youngster to go when needed.
  10. Help build your youngster’s sense of self-worth by recognizing his achievements.
  11. Listen to your youngster and encourage him to talk about his feelings and worries.           
  12. Manage your own stress, and be a positive role model.
  13. Monitor their youngster’s access to media and ensure she is aware of safe online practices.
  14. Prepare your child in advance for any changes in routine or other unexpected activities. For example, use this 3-stage warning: “In 15 minutes, we are going to the grocery store.” Then after 5 minutes have passed, repeat your instruction and say “In 10 minutes, we are going to the store.” Then after 5 minutes, say “We are leaving in 5 minutes.”
  15. Provide a written, predictable schedule of events (e.g., “On school days, you get dressed, brush your teeth, eat some breakfast, get your school bag, and then get on the bus”). Remember, Asperger’s kids thrive on routine.
  16. Regularly spend calm and relaxing time with your youngster.
  17. Set firm expectations regarding house rules. In many cases, Asperger’s kids may not want to follow a rule that holds no interest for them (e.g., “Be sure to wash your hands before you come to the dinner table”). It is important for parents to establish and maintain control – even when their child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder.
  18. Show active interest in your youngster’s activities and hobbies, and participate when possible.
  19. Support your youngster if he is exposed to bullying.
  20. Use less verbal instruction, and replace it with visual instruction. For example, use drawings, pictures, or other images to create a “chores chart” or a “house-rules chart.”
  21. Use positive reinforcement for good behavior as often as possible!

When environmental stress becomes too much to handle, the youngster can develop a range of physical, emotional or behavioral symptoms, and can even be at risk of developing other mental health problems. Also, he may find it difficult to recognize and verbalize when he is experiencing stress. Thus, it is important for moms and dads to teach their “special needs” child to recognize and express his emotions, and to use healthy ways to cope effectively with the environment.

More resources for parents of children and teens with High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's:

==> How To Prevent Meltdowns and Tantrums In Children With High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's

 ==> Launching Adult Children with Asperger's and High-Functioning Autism: Guide for Parents Who Want to Promote Self-Reliance

 ==> Teaching Social Skills and Emotion Management to Children and Teens with Asperger's and High-Functioning Autism

 ==> Parenting Children and Teens with High-Functioning Autism: Comprehensive Handbook



==> Parenting System that Significantly Reduces Defiant Behavior in Teens with Aspergers and High-Functioning Autism
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Articles in Alphabetical Order: 2012

Articles in Alphabetical Order: 2012 

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Understanding the Role of Risperidone and Aripiprazole in Treating Symptoms of ASD

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social communication challenges and restricted, re...