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Friday, 31 May 2013

Understanding autism: Removing the label of "problem children"


Andrea Payo is the coordinator of Family Centers' Young Parents Program. Photo: Contributed Photo 

Andrea Payo is the coordinator of Family Centers' Young Parents Program



I am the lucky aunt of a beautiful 5-year-old autistic girl. Having a child with autism is something that our family never expected, nor were we ready for it. She came into this world being quite different than the rest of us. And that's fine with us, as we love her exactly the way she is.

Children with autism have characteristics and behaviors that are considered unusual.

These could include a lack of eye contact, repeating words over and over again, having difficulty sharing toys, keeping to themselves, struggling when making transitions and avoiding human interaction.

What's more common is that autistic children have trouble verbalizing themselves and their needs, which often leads to tantrums, meltdowns and misbehaviors.

In struggling with the challenges associated with autism, many of these kids may also suffer from sensory processing disorder.

Things that most of us can easily handle, such as bright light, loud sounds, different smells, flavors and textures can turn into negative stimulus and become a major cause of distress and confusion.
On the surface, autistic kids aren't any different from other kids. They love to play, have fun and have hopes and dreams.

Unfortunately, their social, emotional and sensory challenges are often unpredictable and flare-ups can happen at the most inopportune times. Sadly, since a large portion of the population is not educated on autistic behaviors, these kids are labeled as "problem children."

Parents of autistic children are often considered poor disciplinarians, as well.

On several occasions, when I have taken my niece to public places such as the grocery store, beach or a playground, I have received disapproving looks.

They stare at us wondering why this girl is walking in circles or throwing things for no apparent reason.
Receiving this type of disapproval (no matter how confident you might be) can produce a negative effect on you. Despite the fact, as a parent, you do everything you can to create a happy and safe life for your child, other people's perceptions can weigh on you.

The truth is that parents aren't the only ones affected by the social stigma associated with autism. Many autistic children are very aware of their condition and can experience feelings of sadness -- especially when others aren't understanding.

It is my belief that the only way to counteract this unfair stigma is to generate and encourage open and clear discussion about autism. Increasing autism awareness among those who are not affected with autism personally, would eventually lead to more tolerance for those who don't fit the mold, and their families.

The prevalence of autism in the United States is 1 in 88 children.

Hopefully, in a near future, more and more people will think twice before judging an autistic child who is having a meltdown and screams hysterically for "no reason" -- or perhaps, a child who repeats himself over and over again, or a child who is constantly hand flapping or even just spinning around.

Being the parent of an autistic child is hard and challenging. Being autistic is challenging. Parents and children with autism are very likely to be judged and bullied. Ideally, we will reach that point where people understand what parents and children coping with autism need. What they deserve from us is our support, our love and our respect.

Andrea Payo is the coordinator of Family Centers' Young Parents Program. With offices in Greenwich, Stamford, Darien and New Canaan, Family Centers is a United Way, New Canaan Community Foundation and Community Fund of Darien partner agency that offers counseling and support programs for children, adults and families. Contact her at 203-324-3167or visit www.familycenters.org.


Source : GreenWich Citizen , 31st May 2013 

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