Little Puddins: Educate yourself about what autism is

By Amanda McGuinness, Little Puddins Blog

FOR parents hearing the word autism for the first time, I know it can seem daunting.

I spoke with several families this past week who found themselves learning for the first time that their children are autistic. The best advice I can give to any parent, learning their child is autistic, is to educate yourself first, on what autism is, and stay away from the medicalised, pathologised interpretations of autism.

Realise that being autistic, having a child that is neurodivergent, means simply that your child is different, and being different is not a bad thing.

Now you know that your child is autistic, you have a starting point. You have all the time in the world to help support your child.

Start off with reliable information on autism. Don’t rush out to try therapies you have never heard of, do your research, and check for the credentials of the service providers. Avoid any supports or services that are compliance based, that try to encourage your child to mask, to not be their true authentic selves. Any service that attempts to 'normalise', i.e. make your child appear neurotypical when they are neurodivergent, in my opinion should be avoided.

Over on my family blog I am sharing posts on book recommendations, free resources, links and what I recommend doing after your gorgeous child has been identified as autistic. Go to my website www.littlepuddins.ie for free resources and supports to help you on your journey.

This week my lovely Max has been saying "I love you Mammy and Daddy". I remember a time when my gorgeous Max struggled to find his words. Having a neuroaffirmative, strengths-based approach to supporting Max was the key to helping him make progress. I am thankful for every word he can say.

* Read Amanda's Little Puddins blog in our print edition on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month