My ASD Child

"How can I help my very depressed 13 y.o. lad to develop some self-esteem? He feels like nobody NOBODY likes him right now :(  Is this common for children on the autism spectrum? Would it have anything to do with puberty?" Youngsters with ASD can oftentimes FEEL that they are different. This can affect his/her self-esteem. As a parent, this can break your heart.  Here are some ideas to help your youngster to build up his self-esteem again: Kids with ASD have a much harder time with their self-esteem. They often perceive the constant correction of their behaviors and their social interactions as criticism. The frequent visits to doctors, or speech therapists, or OTs, the testing and the stream of interventions that we try with them can easily leave them feeling like they're under the microscope, a specimen that warrants investigation, a person who needs fixing. Expressive and comprehensive communication has a direct impact on a youngster's self-esteem.

If you have the perfect situation and your ASD (high functioning autistic) teenager is excited about the opportunity, then go for it. You know your youngster better than anyone, and many ASD teenagers can do very well working for others.    However, if you are uneasy about sending your teenager off to a job, then consider the possibility of starting a home business with him. You and your teenager can work together. You can help him learn about responsibility, customer service, sales, marketing and book keeping. Here are some business ideas to consider: 1. Elderly care. Stop by once a day, to bring in their paper, take out their garbage, and check in. 2. Pet Sitting or Grooming. If your teenager loves animals (and doesn’t have allergies), pet sitting can be the perfect way for your teenager to make money and build self-esteem in the process. The only critical thing here is that you have to make sure they are meeting their appointments. Depending on your teenager’s level

If your Aspergers (high functioning autistic) youngster is having difficulties socially in school, you may be tempted to sign him up for basketball or soccer with the other youngsters. You know your youngster better than anyone. Just be sure that you’re setting your youngster up for a positive, rather than a negative experience. Make sure you know who will be coaching your youngster, and make sure that he is someone who you want in charge of your youngster’s self-esteem for the next few months. Make sure your coach is a “good guy.” If the coach has any insight into Aspergers, even better! However, if team sports are not your youngster’s strong suit and he or she gets very stressed or has that “lost” look while participating, then here are some alternatives: Bike Riding (go on bike trails if you are concerned about safety) Camping as a family Going on Long Walks with You Going to the Park (just being a kid!) Karate (again, make sure the people in charge of the facility are w