| "Heartbreaking" -- That is the word some people use | | | | agitated, upset and even violent if touched |
| to describe their failed efforts in showing love to | | | | unexpectedly. So always approach the child from the |
| children with autism. Parents, teachers and caretakers | | | | front and give a warning before touching them. For |
| of autistic children may wonder how to reach out to a | | | | example, tell the child you will be carrying him into the |
| child that seems withdrawn, unreachable and | | | | car seat. Don't just grab him. |
| disinterested in showing affection. | | | | - Don't force hugs on them. If you feel an autistic child |
| It is true that many autistic children have a problem | | | | could use a hug, get down to their level and invite them |
| when it comes to affection but it would be false to | | | | with open arms. Talk to the child and let them decide if |
| say that all autistic children cannot give nor receive | | | | they want a hug or not. Do not violate their personal |
| affection. This is a myth. An autistic child processes | | | | space but rather let them invade your space. If they |
| sensory touch differently from a normal child. | | | | refuse your offer, don't feel offended. It's probably not |
| Therefore, autistic children can be affectionate, but it | | | | what they need at that time. |
| would be on their own terms. | | | | - Try other ways to show affection. Hugs and touches |
| So, if you are wondering how you can be affectionate | | | | are not the only to show affection. You can give |
| towards an autistic child, here are some suggestions | | | | verbal encouragement and positive comments coupled |
| for you: | | | | with a loving smile. You could also use hand gestures |
| - Seek first to understand How autism impacts a | | | | like giving a thumbs up. Affection could also be in the |
| person's life and ability to function ranges from light to | | | | form of doing something nice for them or giving them |
| severe. You could say that autism affects a person in | | | | a gift they will appreciate. |
| a wide spectrum of ways. They do not all react the | | | | Every autistic child is different. Building up that bond |
| same way. The way they react to almost everything | | | | takes patience. If your child has a problem with |
| can be different for each child. Some don't mind bear | | | | affection, don't be disheartened. Learn more about |
| hugs. Some cannot even stand having their arm held. | | | | autistic behaviors so you don't hold on to unrealistic |
| Some are able to be touched by close family | | | | expectations. Communicate with other parents that |
| members but not strangers or friends. Through trial | | | | have children with autism to see how they have |
| and error, you have to learn what kind of hug or touch | | | | coped with the issue, then experiment the different |
| is acceptable to them. | | | | ways to see what works for you. Be positive and |
| - Give warnings before you touch them. An autistic | | | | think of it as learning to speak a different kind of love |
| child who is oversensitive to touch may become | | | | language with your autistic child. |