Ep. 04: Supporting Your Child with Autism

Content

• Introduction

• Early Recognition

• Parents’ Worries

• What Should Parents Do After Receiving a Diagnosis?

• Conclusion

1. Introduction

Perhaps when receiving the diagnosis that “your child is on the autism spectrum,” the first emotions many parents experience are confusion, anxiety, and even a sense of helplessness. Today, I want to share with you a few perspectives—from early signs, to real-life challenges, to the direction parents can take to walk alongside their child.

First, we need to understand: autism is not a disease. It is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. It is called the “autism spectrum” because each child is different: some are mild and mainly struggle with communication; others face greater challenges in learning, motor skills, or behavior. Recognizing Autism Spectrum Disorder as early as possible is crucial. Professionals often call early detection the “golden window.”

2. Early Recognition

So how can we recognize autism early? Below are some common signs, grouped into three categories:

a. Communication and Language

• Delayed speech or no speech

• Limited eye contact or rarely looks at people when interacting

• Does not respond to their name, even with normal hearing

b. Social Interaction

• Prefers playing alone, shows little interest in peers

• Does not share joy or show toys or interesting moments

• Seems unaware of other people’s emotions

c. Behaviors and Interests

• Repetitive behaviors: spinning, hand-flapping, lining up objects

• Overly sensitive to sounds, lights, smells, textures—or, in some cases, under-responsive

• Becomes extremely upset when routines change

Not every child will show all these signs, but if parents observe several, it is important to seek a professional evaluation. The earlier the detection, the more effective the intervention.

3. Parents’ Worries

When hearing the diagnosis, many parents experience shock:

• Some go into denial, thinking the doctor made a mistake.

• Some blame themselves: “Did I do something wrong?”

• Some feel the future has gone dark and lose their sense of direction.

I have met many parents whose children were diagnosed with autism, but they refused to believe it—so they didn’t bring their child to therapists or special education teachers, missing the child’s golden developmental window. There were also parents who, after hearing the diagnosis, felt ashamed and restricted both the mother and the child, causing the condition to worsen.

Autism is not something to fear. Parents must face the situation directly. Many parents have successfully supported their autistic children. One example is a mother named Tâm An, a journalist living in the U.S., who has done an excellent job supporting her autistic son.

4. What Should Parents Do After Receiving a Diagnosis?

So, once parents receive the diagnosis, what should they do?

a. Start early and use evidence-based interventions

Seek help from psychologists, speech therapists, and special education teachers. Common approaches include:

• ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis)

• PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System)

• TEACCH (Structured teaching support)

Avoid believing promises like “100% cure.” Instead, focus on realistic goals: helping your child communicate, become more independent, and integrate into daily life.

b. Create a patient and loving environment

Autistic children often feel the world is overwhelming and unpredictable. Provide a safe environment with clear routines. Praise and encourage your child for even the smallest achievements. Do not compare your child with others. Every child has their own timeline.

c. Walk with your child—don’t “force” them

Learn to play with your child, instead of making the child play your way. Use the child’s interests to expand communication. For example, if your child loves cars, use cars to teach colors, numbers, or simple stories. Focus on personal skills, social skills, and connection with nature, rather than pressuring the child with excessive academic knowledge.

d. Parents must take care of themselves

Parents must protect their own mental health. Allow yourself to rest, and join support groups with other parents. A stable parent becomes a strong foundation for the child.

5. Conclusion

Dear friends, walking alongside a child on the autism spectrum is a long journey—one that requires immense patience, love, and a willingness to learn. There will be moments of exhaustion, moments of frustration. But please remember: every small milestone—whether it’s a new word, a glance, or a hug—is a precious result of your companionship and dedication. You and your child are not alone. Keep going.