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Do you ever feel like your words aren't getting through to your little one diagnosed with autism, or even worse…. they are causing them to become more upset?
This is a common challenge most parents and caregivers face.
This usually is because most conventional parenting communication strategies, that are traditionally taught or passed down usually don't hold for children with developmental disabilities.
Let’s tackle some common misconceptions about parenting communication practices that may not be as effective as we think, and explore what works better.
1. Repetition Doesn't Guarantee Understanding
Repeating instructions in the same manner and expecting better results? Children with autism may not process your message due to sensory differences.
What to try: Rephrase your words into simpler language or supplement with visual aids for clarity.
2. Emotional Appeals Might Miss the Mark
Saying "You make me sad when you don’t listen" relies on your child's ability to intuitively understand and respond to your emotions.
A clearer approach: Explain emotions and their causes directly, helping your child understand the link between actions and feelings.
3. The Confusion of Sarcasm
Sarcasm can be perplexing for children who interpret language literally.
The alternative: Opt for honest, straightforward communication to eliminate confusion and ensure your message is received as intended.
4. Non-Verbal Cues Aren't Always Clear
Relying on an autistic child to grasp non-verbal signals can result in misunderstandings.
Be explicit: Clearly articulate your feelings and what you expect from them, minimizing reliance on subtle cues.
5. Patience with Response Times
Immediate responses might not always be feasible.
Understand: Giving your child a moment to process and respond to your requests respects their need for extra time.
6. Beyond Punishments: Understanding and Teaching
Punitive actions don't always address the root causes of behaviors.
Focus on: Identifying triggers, teaching alternative behaviors, and celebrating positive choices with positive reinforcement.
Navigating communication with our little ones can feel like decoding a secret language, especially when their perspective of the world is so beautifully unique.
But here's the good news: by reshaping our approach and adjusting our expectations, we're not just tackling our own challenges head-on—we're building bridges.
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