Insights from a Fellow Parent and Child Psychiatrist
Picture this: Youâre embarking on a family journey, the road stretching endlessly before you, treats within armâs reach, and your beloved melodies filling the car. Suddenly, the peaceful ambiance is disrupted by a commotion from the backseat. Your child, who is on the autism spectrum, is grappling with the sensory bombardment of the journey. Amid the turmoil, you find yourself laughing at the paradox of your carefully orchestrated âcalmâ vacation morphing into a scene straight out of a farcical comedy.
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Preparation is paramount. As the saying goes, fortune favors the prepared. Yet, no amount of preparation can completely eliminate discomfort. Nevertheless, you are capable, and you can create beautiful, meaningful memories with your children in the great outdoors.
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Addressing sensory challenges during travel is crucial, as sensory overload is a common obstacle for children with autism.
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There are several books available on Amazon that could be beneficial in mitigati
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Imagine a student who is the epitome of decorum and respect in school, but at home, they transform into a whirlwind of emotions. This scenario is not uncommon for neurodiverse children who often remain unnoticed in educational environments. They are like hidden icebergs, their struggles concealed beneath the surface, invisible to those unfamiliar with their circumstances.
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These children often employ a strategy known as âmaskingâ, where they exert significant mental energy to conceal their difficulties. Sometimes itâs a conscious effort; other times, itâs an instinctive defense mechanism. Their objective? To blend in, to appear ânormalâ, to avoid being singled out.
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Unfortunately, neurodiverse children are more susceptible to mental health issues. So, how can we support them? Letâs delve into some strategies.
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Building Bridges of Empathy
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The first step is fostering open communication between parents and educators. Parents should feel comfortable discussing their chil
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