Children that have a sibling with autism in NJ may show any broad spectrum of attitudes on their relationship, and research has shown a variety of reactions of the siblings. How a sibling reacts often depends on where they fall in the birth order, the severity of the disorder, and general family behavior.
A parent would love for the siblings to develop a strong bond, but it could be difficult to develop that type of a relationship. A child with an autistic disorder will demand special attention from the parents, and so the siblings may often compete for that parental attention. There is the possibility of tantrums and unexpected behavior from brothers and sisters of children with autism. However, one of the most positive things that siblings can learn is empathy and understanding at an early age.
Positive and enduring relationships can most certainly develop between children with autism and their siblings. To best accomplish positive relationships and outcomes, a family must focus on open communication among everyone involved.
1) Jealousy is expected
It’s natural for a child to be jealous of the amount of attention given to an autistic sibling. Parents must reassure the child that thoughts of anger and embarrassment will run through their mind toward their autistic sibling and they shouldn’t feel guilty. You must explain that this will happen, but they will also begin to understand why this occurs and they will learn how to handle unique situations.
Some parents have enrolled their children into autistic sibling workshops where they can meet other children living under the same circumstances. Quickly, they will understand that they aren’t alone. Remember, some children may never connect with their autistic sibling, as they cannot handle witnessing tantrums and unexpected public outbursts. Usually, this type of a relationship turns out to have more compassion and care than an average sibling relationship.
2) Getting Siblings to Relate to One Another
Parents must find ways for siblings to relate to one another. Often, finding shared interest could be something of a simplistic nature. Once you find that common interest, then it’s your job to continually nurture and foster this relationship.
Also, don’t forget to set time aside for some personal one-on-one contact with all of your children. Developing a hobby with them is a great way to share private moments with them.
3) The Outspokenness of Your Child
Expect your child to become more outspoken and outgoing than other children of their age. Often, they will announce to strangers that their sibling has autism and they have special needs. In certain circumstances, they will become an "expert" in explaining their sibling’s behavior.
Other children will find it tough handling the added responsibility of helping to care for an autistic sibling, as parents must judge what role each child will play. Help them understand that their help is grateful, yet remember they still must live their life as a child.
Parents should only initiate conversations with their child on the future care of the autistic sibling once they’re mature enough to understand such a dialogue. Some will grow up and devote themselves to careers in autism awareness and research development to help find a cure for this disorder.
PEOPLE WITH AUTISM REQUIRE CONTINUING CARE
One of the most difficult decisions of a family with a child with autism is how to adapt as they grow older.
An individual with autism must deal with the same language issues, repetitive behaviors and difficulty dealing with social interaction they faced when growing up. Some people with autism make progress after intensive physical and behavioral therapy, but many struggle with basic activities on a daily basis. Most of them need some kind of help for their entire adult life.
Life is more difficult for individuals with autism who find routine activities to be challenging and have problems dealing with anything that is unfamiliar. Many parents worry what will happen to their children with autism after they are gone.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that one in 110 children has an autism spectrum disorder. While there are programs to help them as children, there is less help available for individuals with disabilities once they become adults. Most government-sponsored therapeutic programs end when they turn 21, leaving them with few choices. There are few residential facilities available, but fortunately things are beginning to change. Awareness of autism has grown exponentially since the early 1990’s thanks to the Internet and better knowledge of the disorder.
Capitol Care, Inc. in New Jersey offers several Autism NJ programs designed to help people facing Autism as well as other developmental disabilities and mental illness in their state. Through the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Disability Services, Capitol Care, Inc. has an innovative residential program that allows individuals with disabilities to live in a comfortable and safe environment. The trained staff provides hands on supervision while setting realistic goals.
Capitol Care, Inc. also offers adult day and individual support programs in New Jersey aimed at helping individuals with disabilities live in an independent environment. All services provide education in setting personal goals and development, including life skills and management and community integration.
What makes these programs more effective than past efforts is the emphasis on assisting people with autism set specific goals. Therapeutic services cover the kind of life skills that can help an individual with disabilities develop independent skills such as shopping, cooking, and hygiene issues.
More agencies are launching programs like the “Transition Tool Kit” by Autism Speaks, an advocacy group. The service deals with housing, employment, and available public benefits.
When it comes to employment, a person with autism can perform a job that involves repetition quite well. Many have found success in these type of jobs and become solid contributors to society.
Increased awareness and studies are leading to a better understanding of autism and what can be done to improve the lives of people with the disorder.
For more information, please visit www.capitol-care.org or call 973-426-1447.
While no parent wants to think that something is wrong with their child, autism is a real part of many lives. In some cases, a child may live with the condition for years before anyone provides the diagnosis of autism. One of the most difficult aspects of diagnosing autism is the range that the condition covers from very mild to quite severe. A NJ behavioral health service, such as Capitol Care, can help make a diagnosis based upon the recognition of symptoms of autism.
The state of a child's communication can be one of the first indicators that the child may suffer from autism. Children with autism often take longer to speak than their peers. When they do begin to talk, they often have difficulty using words correctly and understanding the words other speak to them. This includes their own name in some cases. A child with autism may have difficulty following instructions. It is difficult for the child to carry on a conversation with others.
Children diagnosed with autism often have difficulties in social situations. They are awkward around other children and may seem incapable of playing with the other children. Pretend play is something that an autistic child doesn't understand, making him stand out from his peers as they play around him. It is normal for some children to be shy and have difficulties joining in with their peers. The difference is that a child with autism doesn't warm up to the other children over time.
In addition to difficulty with verbal communication, children with autism also exhibit difficulties with small motor skills and other physical movements. A child who has autism isn't likely to point to objects. Many children develop this skill between 12 and 18 months. A child with autism won't. They also lack the ability to mimic those around him. Many young children copy the facial expressions and actions of those around them as a way of learning. A child with autism doesn't pay any or very little attention to what goes on around him.
A final sign to watch for among children diagnosed with autism is their obsession with repetition and familiarity. A child with autism has difficulty adjusting to changes in his daily routine or his surroundings. For instance, if his parents move the furniture around in the living room, he will likely be very distressed by this. The most well-known sign of autism is a child's obsession with order. Children who exhibit signs of autism often spend a lot of time arranging objects in a precise manner. If anyone disrupts the order, he becomes upset. The child is also likely to engage in a specific behavior that involves repetition.
If a child has been diagnosed with autism, a thorough evaluation at a NJ behavioral health facility can help a family find the right resources to help raise a child with autism and lead a happy, healthy life.
