Understanding Autism as a Parent

After a child is diagnosed with autism, parents face many decisions. One of the most difficult questions is how to tell the child about their diagnosis. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, as every child is unique and will respond differently. However, there are a few key considerations that can help parents make this decision.

  • Autism is Not Something to Cure

First, it is important to remember that autism is not something that needs to be cured. It is simply a different way of experiencing the world. There is no shame or stigma attached to the diagnosis.

  • Teenagers Often Understand Their Diagnosis Well

Many teenagers with autism are capable of understanding and accepting their diagnosis. Some teenagers say it was a relief to finally have a name for the differences they had always felt.

  • Deciding How Much Information to Share

Parents should consider how much information to share and when the child is ready to hear it. Ultimately, the decision of how to tell a child about their autism diagnosis is a personal one that should be made with care.

Read More: Why do Autistic People use Masking?

Talking to Your Child About Autism

  • Be Honest and Straightforward

After an autism diagnosis, it is important to be straightforward with your child. Explain to them what autism is and how it affects them specifically. Even if they are very young, they need to know that there is a name for the way they think and feel.

  • Share Their Strengths and Weaknesses

Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning no two people are affected in the same way. Identifying their specific strengths and challenges can help your child understand how autism affects them and how they can manage it.

  • Help Them Feel Connected

Explain that autism is a pattern of traits that many other people have. This will help your child feel less alone and more connected to the autistic community.

Helping Your Child Understand Neurodiversity

A neurodivergent individual’s brain processes information differently than a neurotypical brain. This means an autistic child or teen learns in different ways and has unique strengths and sensitivities.

Sharing Their Evaluation

Sharing parts of your child’s autism evaluation can help them:

  • Understand their neurodiversity.
  • Learn about their unique strengths and attributes.
  • Build a foundation for self-care and lifelong learning.

Supporting Your Child’s Development

  • Young Children Need a Safe and Loving Environment

For very young children, the most important thing is to provide a safe and loving space. Accepting their accommodations, offering support, and acknowledging their differences will boost their self-esteem and create a firm foundation for their future.

  • Encouraging Independence in Older Children

As children get older, they should play a greater role in structuring their own needs. Teenagers need more independence, but they still require support and boundary setting. No matter their age, the best thing you can do as a parent is be present and listen.

  • Listening to Your Child

Listening to your child and hearing what they have to say is one of the most important things you can do as a parent. It helps you understand their needs and how best to meet them.

What If Your Child Struggles with Their Diagnosis?

Some children may refuse to discuss their diagnosis or show little interest in the topic. This is okay. As a parent, you may want to do everything to help, but it is important to remember that your child is the expert on their own experience.

  • Allowing Them to Process in Their Own Time

While you can provide access to support and resources, ultimately, it is up to your child to decide whether or not they want to engage with them. This is especially true for teenagers, who may be sensitive about their diagnosis and reluctant to discuss it with others.

  • Providing Love and Support

The best thing you can do is offer love and support and let your child know you are there for them whenever they are ready.

Read More: The Benefits of an Adult Autism Diagnosis

Every Child Responds Differently

Just as every individual is different, every child will respond differently to an autism diagnosis. Some children may be very interested in learning more about their condition, while others may prefer not to think about it too much.

Respecting Your Child’s Wishes

It is important to respect your child’s feelings and consider their needs before encouraging them to talk about their autism diagnosis. There are many books and support groups available for children and families, so information and guidance can be sought out whenever your child is ready.

The Importance of Sharing Autism Information

Parents should share information about autism in an age-appropriate way that helps the child understand themselves. This approach allows the child to access important accommodations and significantly improves their self-esteem and self-acceptance.

Get Professional Support

Dr. Jessica Myszak has over 10 years of experience performing psychological evaluations with children and adults. She offers both in-person and telehealth evaluations. In addition to seeing clients on the Chicago North Shore, she can work with families who reside in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin! If you want to learn more about potentially working with her, you can contact her to start the process.