Exploring autism
By ANJIRA ASSAVANONDA
The association was founded 15 years ago by Chusak Janthayanond, who has an autistic son.
Chusak discovered that it was hard finding the right school for his son, and his experiences inspired him to establish a society to help others in similar situations. When the members increased from five to nearly 200 families, the society was upgraded into an association.
Concurrently, Chusak initiated a joint learning class between autistic and normal students at the Janthayanond School, which he runs.
The association also extended its parent networks in 40 provinces, with a total of 4,000 member families.
The objectives of the association focuses on parental training, adjusting their attitudes, guiding them to raising autistic children, as well as providing life skills and vocational training to the children.
Chusak Janthayanond, with his wife and autistic son. |
More about autism
Autism is a brain development disorder that impairs social interaction and communication, and causes restricted and repetitive behaviour, all starting before a child is two years old.
Some scientists believe autism has a strong genetic basis. In rare cases, it is strongly associated with agents that cause birth defects.
Most recent reviews estimate a prevalence of one to two cases per 1,000 people for autism. Some studies say autism affects about one in every 150 children. In Thailand, some 60,000 autistic people have been registered with the Ministry of Public Health, but the actual number is estimated to be 300,000.
Symptom severity
There are three levels of autism - mild, moderate or severe, considered from the symptoms in three areas, including social, communication and behaviour.
The symptoms severity however, do not relate to how bright or intelligent a child might be. For example, a child with moderate to severe symptoms does not necessarily have mental retardation. Some children might be able to read words at a young age despite significant communication problems.
Noticeable signs
Parents can notice these symptoms in the first three years of a child's life.
nNo eye contact
Children with autism rarely make eye contact with people they are talking to. Even when they look at you, it's like they are looking through you.
nLanguage development problems
It's hard for autistic children to talk with other people and express themselves using words. Many can't communicate without special help.
nLack of social interaction
Children with autism rarely interact with others. If you leave a two-year-old autistic child in a playground, they will play alone without joining other children.
nOther unusual behaviour
Autism causes children to act in unusual ways. They might flap their hands, say certain words over and over, have temper tantrums, or play with one particular toy. Most children with autism don't like changes in routines. They may insist that their toys or other objects be arranged in a certain way and get upset when these items are moved.
If your children shows these symptoms, consult a doctor.
Guidelines for parents
Be patient .
Autism can affect a family's feelings. If parents are not patient with each other, the family may break.
Be patient with your child .
Remind yourself that your child's unusual behaviour are results of the disorder, not their stubbornness.
Be patient with other people .
Often your autistic child may embarrass you in the public. Parents should learn to tolerate and cope with it.
Be gentle and caring
Your child can feel your love through gentle touches. So show your support by patting their shoulders, hugging or holding hands.
Be consistently attentive
Take your child to doctors immediately. If left untreated, autism can become worse or even develop into schizophrenia.
Write down the rules for them .
Children with autism normally stick to rules or routines. So write them down clearly for them to follow.
Explain to the community
Tell others your child is exceptional, so they understand and treat the child properly.
Pay greater attention to their safety
Autistic children normally don't mind their own safety, so pay greater attention to them.
Don't be emotional with your child.
That not only hurts their feelings, but they are quick to copy your behaviour.
Don't underestimate or overestimate your child's ability .
Be happy with what he can be. Also don't be careless, even though your child seems very much improved, but letting him do anything that exceeds their limits could be dangerous he can't control himself.
For more information, visit http://www. autisticthai.org/, or call 02-411-2899.
Prev
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Next
