Challenges of Autism

Discovering the Infinite Continuum That Is the Spectrum

No Two Children on the Spectrum Are Alike

Many parents who get the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder for their child have a thousand questions for their pediatrician, most of which are what to expect and how to plan/prepare/manage the symptoms of the disorder. To their great dismay, a majority of the time, the answers are, “we aren’t sure, we will have to wait and see." It is important to understand that ASD is a broad diagnosis that encompasses a wide range — or spectrum — of developmental disorders that affect communication and interaction. Where your child falls on that spectrum is as unique as their own fingerprint.

At SkyCare ABA, our skilled therapists have decades worth of experience working with children on the spectrum and their families to identify challenges and overcome barriers to offer a brighter tomorrow. Founded on the belief of neuroplasticity, our programs are focused on modifying behaviors to help children reach their full potential, no matter where they fall on the spectrum.

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Medical Conditions Associated With Autism

  • Epilepsy
  • Feeding Challenges
  • Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Sleep Challenges
  • Schizophrenia
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • GI Disorders — Gastroesophageal reflux, inflamed bowel, chronic constipation

Secondary Challenges a Child on the Spectrum May Face

  • Sensory Issues
  • Intellectual Disabilities
  • Anxiety and Depression
  • Rigid Eating Habits
  • Wandering
  • Repetitive Motions
  • Transitional Difficulties
  • Perception and Awareness Difficulty
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Tips For Managing Sensory Issues

Breaking Down Barriers And Reaching For the Sky

The thinking, learning, and problem-solving abilities of children on the spectrum range from severely challenged to extraordinarily gifted. Some children with ASD require significant assistance with activities of daily living while others function nearly independently. With early intervention, effective treatment, a solid support system, and caregiver and educator preparedness, each child has the potential to live beyond their diagnosis — the sky is the limit!

ABA therapy helps children and their families break down barriers, overcome challenges, and adapt to the particulars of their child’s ASD symptoms. Learn more about ABA, and enroll your child today.

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Challenges Associated With Autism

Family Relationship Adjustments

For many children on the spectrum, interpersonal communication and social interaction impairments are not exclusive to outside the home. Many parents struggle with their children who avoid touch, eye contact, and have difficulty expressing emotion as much as they struggle with the child who is overly clingy, prone to inappropriate touch, and does not understand personal space. It is important to remember that all of these symptoms are normal of ASD and can be managed through effective ABA therapy programs.

Education Barriers

While some children on the spectrum can function well in a regular classroom setting, most children with ASD require some form of an IEP, and a fair amount requires special education settings — at least initially. The majority of children on the spectrum are at or above normal intelligence levels, but the problem with the traditional classroom setting is those who also have ADD, sensory intolerance, or impaired social or communication skills. With the combination of educating the educators, an individualized education plan (IEP), and ABA treatment, each child is perfectly capable of keeping up with (and excelling beyond) their peers.

Social Environment Impacts

Unfortunately, the majority of the world is not yet equipped to welcome those on the spectrum without modifications. In recent years, many social settings have become more aware of ASD, and many businesses have modified their offerings to be more accepting and welcoming of those with special sensory needs. For instance, many child entertainment centers have reduced sensory stimuli or offer “sensory-friendly” hours. The use of noise-canceling headphones and other adaptive devices are becoming increasingly normalized in the general public, and the majority of society is able to accept and react more appropriately to the behaviors of those on the spectrum. As the parent of a child on the spectrum, you may have to continue educating and advocating, or you can seek out the company of those already in the know.

Job Placement and Independent Living

One fear that many parents on the spectrum share is how they will prepare their children for life after childhood. The perceived role for all parents is to nurture and protect their children while preparing them for adult roles and responsibilities as they grow and mature. For those with ASD, progression toward a career may be delayed, but it is not beyond reach. Many people on the spectrum have jobs, homes, and families of their own. In fact, nearly 65% of those with ASD aged 19-23 hold jobs or have post-secondary education. And, adult ASD resources offer living and employment options catered to specific impairments. With early intervention and effective ABA treatment, the need for lifelong care can be reduced by nearly ⅔.

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