Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction and behavior of those who suffer from it. Each child with autism is unique and has their own specific needs. Understanding and addressing these needs is essential to provide them with adequate support and promote their comprehensive development. In this article, we will explore the 7 main needs of children with autism and how we can help meet them.
Need for structure and routine
Children with autism tend to feel more secure and calm when they have structure and predictable routines in their daily lives. The lack of predictability can lead to anxiety and disruptive behaviors in these children. It is important to establish clear schedules for daily activities, both at home and at school, and maintain consistency in activities and rules. The structure provides them with a frame of reference that helps them understand and anticipate what is going to happen, which helps reduce their stress level.
Tips to satisfy this need:
- Create a visual schedule with pictograms that indicates daily activities.
- Explain changes in routine in advance.
- Set clear and consistent limits.
Communication and language need
Difficulty communicating effectively is one of the most common characteristics in children with autism. Some may have a delay in speech development, difficulties understanding verbal language, or resort to non-verbal forms of communication, such as gestures or images. It is essential to provide them with strategies and supports that help them express themselves and understand others. Promoting communication is essential to improve their quality of life and interpersonal relationships.
Tips to satisfy this need:
- Use simple and clear language when communicating with them.
- Offers visual options to facilitate understanding (pictograms, signs).
- Encourages the use of non-verbal communication (gestures, facial expressions).
Need for social interaction
Children with autism often have difficulty relating to others and understanding conventional social norms. They may show little interest in interacting with their peers or have difficulty starting and maintaining conversations. It is important to provide them with opportunities to practice social skills, such as cooperative play, empathy, and conflict resolution. These skills will help them develop meaningful relationships and better integrate into their social environment.
Tips to satisfy this need:
- Encourage group play and collaborative activities.
- Teach social norms explicitly and with concrete examples.
- Promotes eye contact and reciprocity in interactions.
Need for sensory regulation
Children with autism often have atypical sensitivity to environmental stimuli, which can cause discomfort or sensory overload. Some are hypersensitive to certain stimuli, such as bright lights or loud noises, while others may be hypo or insensitive to tactile sensations, for example. It is important to identify which stimuli affect each child and provide them with strategies to regulate their sensory response, such as quiet spaces, headphones or sensory toys.
Tips to satisfy this need:
- Observe the child's reactions to different sensory stimuli.
- Create an environment sensory adapted to their needs.
- Offer self-regulation options (pressure objects, relaxing sounds).
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Need for individualized learning
Each child with autism has their own strengths and areas for improvement in terms of learning. It is essential to adapt educational strategies to the specific needs of each child, providing them with support that allows them to reach their maximum potential. It is important to take into account their interests, preferences and learning styles to create an inclusive and motivating educational environment.
Tips to satisfy this need:
- Use individualized educational methodologies and focused on their interests.
- Provides visual and tactile supports to facilitate learning.
- Offers constructive feedback and positive reinforcements.
Need for support emotional
Children with autism may experience difficulties identifying, expressing and regulating their emotions, which can lead to episodes of anxiety, frustration or challenging behaviors. It is essential to provide them with emotional support and teach them strategies to manage their emotions appropriately. The development of emotional intelligence is key to their emotional well-being and social integration.
Tips to satisfy this need:
- Teach them to identify and name emotions through activities Playful.
- Provides relaxation and emotional management techniques.
- Fosters empathy and the ability to put yourself in the other's shoes.
Need for autonomy and self-esteem
Empowering children with autism and promoting their autonomy is essential for their personal development and self-esteem. Providing them with opportunities to make decisions, assume responsibilities and develop skills helps them strengthen their self-confidence and improve their perception of their own abilities. It is important to recognize and value their achievements, no matter how small, to strengthen their self-esteem and motivation.
Tips to satisfy this need:
- Set realistic and achievable goals in collaboration with the child.
- Offers opportunities for decision making and problem solving.
- Recognizes and celebrates the child's achievements and progress in a positive way.
In summary, knowing and addressing the specific needs of children with autism is essential to promote their comprehensive development and improve their quality of life. By providing them with appropriate support and creating inclusive and understanding environments, we can contribute to enhancing their skills and strengths, promoting their emotional well-being and social integration. Each child is unique, so it is important to adapt strategies and supports to each child's individual needs to ensure their success and happiness.