If you are losing patience with an autistic child then you are not alone. It is immensely challenging to raise a child with autism, but we are here to help.
You may feel like it is all so hard for you but yet seems so easy for parents of neuro-typical children.
Whilst we cannot fix the challenges for you, here are some tips to help you stay calm and centered:
Take a break
It’s important to recognise when you’re feeling overwhelmed and take a break. This can be as simple as stepping outside for a few minutes or taking a few deep breaths to help calm your nerves.
Taking a break can help you to clear your mind and approach the situation with a fresh perspective.
Obviously if you have the luxury of babysitters then you can try to have a longer break but even just grabbing an afternoon can be helpful.
Practice self care
Caring for a child with autism can be emotionally and physically exhausting. It’s important to take care of yourself, both physically and emotionally.
Ultimately if you cannot look after yourself you may not be able to care for your child effectively.
Make sure you’re getting enough rest, eating well, and taking time to engage in activities that bring you joy.
Sleep is often a factor we all neglect and can be adversely impacted by your child’s behaviour. That said however when you do get a chance to sleep, take it.
Perhaps practice turning your phone off from 8pm to reduce exposure to blue light and also reduce the stimulation.
Exercise
We are not suggesting you should turn yourself into a fitness fanatic overnight but the benefits of exercise are well known.
Perhaps set yourself some small goals like walking to the shops as opposed to driving. Or taking the stairs as opposed to the elevator.
If you feel physically more healthy you may have more energy and patience with your child.
Set realistic expectations
It’s important to set realistic expectations for both yourself and your child.
Don’t expect your child to behave perfectly all the time, and don’t expect yourself to be a perfect caregiver.
Celebrate small successes and remember that progress takes time. It is likely that your child is progressing at their own speed so perhaps look back at how far they have come.
Work on communication
Communicating with your child can help to reduce misunderstandings and prevent difficult situations.
Use clear and concise language, and provide visual cues or social stories to help your child understand what is expected of them.
You could also try alternative methods such as Makaton or PECS. Even just some really basic forms of communication can dramatically change your child’s behaviour.
Identify triggers
Identifying what triggers your frustration can help you to prevent or manage difficult situations.
For example, if you know that your child becomes overwhelmed in noisy or crowded environments, avoid them.
Or if you know your child plays up if they are hungry, always carry a snack.
Seek support
It’s okay to ask for help. Reach out to friends and family members who can provide support and assistance.
You may be surprised how forthcoming they are if you clearly explain how much you are struggling.
You can also seek out support groups or counseling services to help you manage your stress and anxiety.
Depending on where you live there are also governmental support avenues. Speak to a doctor or social worker to see what assistance can be provided.
Summary – Losing patience with an autistic child?
Caring for an autistic child can be challenging, but it is very important to take care of yourself.
Using effective strategies to manage your emotions, you can provide the best possible care for your child.
Remember that you are not alone, and there are resources available to help you manage your stress and frustration.
With patience, understanding, and support, you can create a positive and nurturing environment for your child to thrive.
