Alex Lowery, author of "Thinking Club: A Filmstrip of My Life as a Person With Autism" was diagnosed with classic autism at the age of 4. Now, he reflects on his own experiences to give parents some helpful ideas about their children with autism. And here are some things he wishes parents would understand.
Autism doesn't mean your child is lost.
Parents who have children with severe classical autism often think that the condition has already taken away the mind and soul of their kids. However, according to Lowery, just like him, these kids just spoke on their own language but they have a "level of understanding to a degree."
Don't assume children with autism can't think on their own.
Lowery said some kids with this particular condition can't talk while there are some who will never learn to talk at all. But that doesn't mean they have nothing to say. Hence, it is very important for the parents to find ways to communicate with their kids. They can try using a sign language or gadgets such as an iPad, where their kids can type their words onto the screen.
No one can predict the future.
Parents normally think that their child with autism has no future at all. They often think that he or she will never be independent and can't do anything by themselves. However, Lowery said these kids just need right support from their families.
Based on his own experience, he said his parents never give up on him and they gave all the right support to him. Hence, he is now a professional public speaker on autism. Thus, it is important for the parents not to lose hope on the future of their children and they might be surprised by the achievements of their kids.
Teach your kids to cope with the real world.
Lowery said children with autism should learn different skills that will help them cope in the real world. This may be hard for the parents but he said with the right level of support, "the majority of people with autism can lead successful lives."
Children on the autism spectrum can definitely continue on making progress. Parents just need to be patient and be supportive to their kids.
