DR RADICA MAHASE

Author Marci Lebowitz, who is an occupational therapist and autism specialist, working with parents of children who are non-verbal, stated, “…how incredibly intuitive and sensitive these autistic children really are. When one is not-so-verbal, the brain starts to rewire and amplify other senses to help them make sense of things. In this case their intuition for knowing what people are thinking and feeling. I have been astounded over the years by how much the caregiver’s belief or disbelief affects these children.”

Generally, there is a tendency to underestimate people who are diagnosed with autism, especially those who are non-verbal. Many people believe that because they are not communicating verbally, that means that they don’t know what others are saying or they don’t understand things. People think that if they are in their own little space, if they prefer to be by themselves, then they don’t know what is happening around them. This is certainly not true. As Lebowitz noted, “They are exquisitely sensitive, perceptive, and instantly pick up on the thoughts and feelings of others. And do not be fooled if they seem to be ignoring you. I have found so many of these children who know exactly what is going on, yet don’t have the physical means to express or communicate that they do indeed understand you.”

That is why is it so important for parents/caregivers to believe in their child. What does believing in your child means? According to one author, “Believing is an experience that leaves a child feeling confident in who he is and what he can do in spite of his challenges, handicaps, shortcomings, and genetics. Believing in a child-promotes the idea that each child inherently has within them, all the gifts and talents to accomplish what they were born to do. They just might need some help accessing it... that’s all.”

Believe in your child – from the time when you get a diagnosis and you hear that your child has autism. In the midst of thinking the worst things possible, of going through the whole process of grieving and worrying, don’t project your own insecurities on to your child. Instead of “how will I ever manage?” start thinking of what you can do to help your child. Believe that your child has the potential to learn and develop. Even when doctors and nurses tell you that you child might never be able to go to school or will never talk, believe that your child can learn and can communicate with you in some way. Have high expectations of your child and work towards helping your child to meet those expectations.

[caption id="attachment_983328" align="alignnone" width="576"] Know that your child is capable and just needs some extra help to grow and develop. - courtesy Rahul's Clubhouse[/caption]

Believe in your child – when teachers/educators tell you that your child cannot learn or when the speech therapist tells you that you child will never speak. Know that your child can learn if he/she is taught in a way that is suitable and engaging. When yo