Autism diagnosis is subjective, and relies mainly on the observation of certain behaviors. There are no blood tests, genetic markers, or characteristics that are common between all autistic people. Diagnosis can be as early as 12 months, though some children do not show any signs until they reach about 18 months.
It is not wise to compare the abilities of one child with that of another when they are very young. This is because children do not develop at the same rate. Whatever you do, do not assume that you have an autistic child because they are not developing as quickly as their peers. You will find that doctors have a standard checklist to go through before they suspect that a child has autism.
Sometimes it is years before the child is diagnosed as being autistic, because they are on the higher level of the autism spectrum. It is also true that just because your child shows certain mannerisms, such as temper tantrums and not wishing to communicate, they are not necessarily autistic. This is because they have a developmental disability or inadequate social skills.
If your child is diagnosed as having autism you will probably be overwhelmed with the decision. You will probably go into some form of denial. Everybody responds in a different way, as the situation can be very emotional.
The majority of parents find it very difficult to accept that their child has something wrong with them. The first thing they normally do is to doubt their doctor, and ask for a second opinion. They cannot believe this kind of thing could happen to their child. The quicker you come to terms with the fact that your child is autistic the easier the situation will become, and the faster you can find what treatment, or care, is available. It will not go away if you ignore it.
Anger is probably the worst emotion you can feel once you have received the diagnosis. Whether this anger is with your doctor, yourself, or even with other parents who have perfectly healthy children. All this is completely normal, but you must not let it build up, you must talk to other people in the same situation as you and share experiences.
After anger there is grief. You may have had lots of hopes and dreams for your child, and now feel they all have to change. You may also have the fear that their child may experience difficulties from other children because they are different. You must not let grief takeover your parental role, you must try to focus on the positive and not the negative of the situation, and adapt accordingly. If you are having problems it might be a good idea to seek out some form of therapy to help you pass the grieving process.
It could take a long while to accept that they have autism. However, once you have got over the initial autism diagnosis you will be able to move on with your life. Your job as a parent is to focus on the ways that you can help your child. Join, or even start, a group for parents in a similar situation. This kind of support will help your Child tremendously.
Author Resource:-
Centre providing an interdisciplinary approach for autism screening Vancouver and autism assessment. For people with autism Vancouver, seeking such services is necessary to improve the quality of life. Monarch House Autism Centre 3185 Willingdon Green, Burnaby, BC V5G 4P3 (604) 205-9204
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