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Misconceptions About Autism

Breaking Down Myths: Dispelling Misconceptions About Autism

By | Blog | No Comments

As parents and caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), we’ve all encountered our fair share of misconceptions and myths about this neurodevelopmental condition.

While some of these may stem from a place of genuine curiosity or lack of understanding, they can still be incredibly damaging. Misconceptions about autism can lead to discrimination, exclusion, and a failure to provide appropriate support and accommodations for individuals on the spectrum. They can also contribute to feelings of isolation, shame, and self-doubt among those with ASD and their families.

It’s also important to note that while these myths are harmful, they often stem from a lack of understanding rather than malice. Instead of reacting defensively or aggressively, we can approach these situations as opportunities for education and awareness.

These myths can be frustrating, hurtful, and even harmful as they perpetuate stigma and misunderstanding. So, let’s break them down and shed light on the reality of autism –

Myth #1: Autism is a disease that needs to be cured

Autism needs to be cured

Autism is not a disease or an illness; it’s a neurological condition that affects how a child perceives and interacts with the world around them. While autism presents unique challenges, the end goal should be acceptance, understanding, and support – not “curing” or “fixing” them.

However, this doesn’t mean that children with autism cannot benefit from evidence-based therapies and interventions! In fact, treatments like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy (OT), and other supportive services can help them develop essential skills, improve communication abilities, and learn strategies to navigate the world more effectively.

These therapies are not intended to “cure” autism but rather to provide tools and resources that can enhance the quality of life and promote greater independence and self-advocacy among children.

Myth #2: Children and adults with autism lack empathy or emotions

children with autism lack empathy and emotions

This myth couldn’t be further from the truth. Individuals with autism experience emotions just like anyone else; they may simply express them differently or have difficulty recognizing and interpreting social cues and emotional expressions. With the right support and understanding, children on the autism spectrum can develop strong emotional connections and empathy.

In this regard, the right therapies and interventions can play a crucial role in helping children with autism better understand and express their emotions. Social skills training, for instance, can teach them how to recognize and respond to nonverbal cues, understand social situations, and develop appropriate emotional responses. Likewise, speech and language therapy, especially when combined with ABA, can also aid in improving communication skills, allowing children to convey their feelings more effectively.

Myth #3: Autism is caused by bad parenting styles

In the 1950s, Leo Kanner and Bruno Bettelheim, US-based academics, proposed that autism stemmed from a distant, career-focused mother, termed the “refrigerator mother.” Despite lacking evidence and facing criticism, this theory persisted until the 1970s and 1980s. However, when biological explanations gained traction, ultimately, the refrigerator mother hypothesis was abandoned.

And it is important to note that there is absolutely no scientific evidence to support the claim that autism is caused by parenting styles or other external, familial factors.

Extensive research has shown that autism has a strong genetic component and likely results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Blaming parents or other factors, such as vaccines, only serves to perpetuate harmful stereotypes and increase the guilt and stress experienced by families.

Myth #4: Autism only affects boys

Autism affects only boys Autism Awareness

Autism does affect more males than females, but it’s important to recognize that autism knows no gender boundaries. Girls and women can also be on the autism spectrum, and they often face unique challenges in terms of diagnosis and support due to gender biases and misconceptions about how autism presents in females.

In fact, research shows that girls with ASD may be underdiagnosed as their behaviors are different from those of boys on the spectrum. For instance, boys are more likely to have limited and repetitive areas of play, whereas girls are relatively less repetitive, with wider play areas. Since their behavior varies in terms of social interactions and communication styles, it is important to personalize support strategies catering to their requirements.

Read more about catering to the unique needs of girls with ASD here.

Myth #5: All children with autism have savant skills or extraordinary talents

While some children and adults with autism do possess exceptional talents or skills in specific areas (known as savant abilities), this is not the case for the majority of children on the autism spectrum. Statistically speaking, as many as one in 10 individuals with autism exhibit remarkable abilities, although savant syndrome can also manifest in other developmental disabilities or central nervous system conditions.

ASD encompasses a broad range of characteristics and experiences, and children diagnosed with it may possess a wide range of abilities, interests, and strengths, just like neurotypical individuals.

Remember, every child with autism is unique, and their experiences and needs are diverse. While general information and resources can be helpful, it’s crucial to approach each child with an open mind and a willingness to learn and adapt to their specific needs.

Concluding Insights –

All children, including those with autism, deserve equitable access to optimal physical and mental health. However, they often face discrimination and lack of healthcare access, aggravating their vulnerability to chronic conditions and violence – Studies indicate that children with autism are potentially three times more susceptible to bullying, physical, or sexual abuse compared to their neurotypical counterparts.

To address this, it’s crucial to combat misinformation about autism, prioritize sensitivity to children’s needs, and collaborate with specialized providers like Early Autism Services (EAS) to ensure tailored care and support.

And as parents, it’s our responsibility to educate ourselves and others about the realities of autism. By breaking down these myths and embracing the truth about autism, we can create a more supportive and inclusive world for our children on the autism spectrum. Let’s continue to amplify their voices, celebrate their strengths, and advocate for their rights and acceptance in our communities.

For more, make sure you get in touch with our best behavioral analysts and schedule a FREE consultation right away – +91 8929153820

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Benefits of Remedial Classes

Benefits of Remedial Classes: Giving Your Child the Best Possible Start

By | Blog

If your child has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), you likely have many questions and concerns about how to ensure they receive the support they need to thrive. And in this regard, choosing the right educational environment is one of the most important decisions a parent can make!

Remedial classes, also known as special education services, provide targeted instruction to help children reach developmental and academic milestones – and they offer many advantages over traditional classrooms. As a parent, understanding these benefits will help you make an informed choice to set your child up for future independence and success. So, let’s dive in –

A Structured and Supportive Learning Environment

Children with autism

Children with ASD often benefit greatly from structure, routine, and low student-to-teacher ratios. Remedial classes provide all of this in ways that traditional classrooms cannot.  The child receives individualized attention tailored specifically to their unique needs.

The smaller environment also minimizes overstimulation from noise, lights, and crowds, which can be challenging for many kids with ASD. Specially trained teachers use visual schedules, timers, sensory tools, and positive behavior reinforcement, allowing children to learn at their own pace in a compassionate space.

Targeted Instruction to Encourage Development 

Remedial teachers undergo specialized training in areas like communication, social skills, functional academics, and occupational therapies. They are also trained to utilize evidence-based practices to set goals targeted to each student’s specific developmental and academic delays related to ASD.

With this level of individualized instruction, students often make rapid progress by mastering foundational skills they may have been lacking. For example, while typical preschoolers learn skills like sharing, taking turns, and raising their hand – children with ASD may need explicit coaching in these building blocks before or alongside learning academics. 

Remedial education starts by filling these gaps, ensuring kids have the tools to absorb grade-level content. Once these foundations are set, students can thrive both socially and scholastically.

Transferable Skill Building for the Future

Skill building due to special education

The communication, social, and self-regulation skills children gain in remedial classes help set them up for success in the real world. While academics remain important, the ability to interact with others, communicate needs, follow instructions, stay focused, and regulate behavior are essential competencies.

Remedial classes prioritize building these transferable tools in developmentally appropriate ways through role-playing conversations, practicing compromising in play, and learning coping strategies for frustration. The earlier children can hone these abilities, the more prepared they’ll be for transitioning to traditional schooling and, eventually, independent living. 

Smoother Transition to Typical Education

Easy transfer to normal education due to remedial classes

While keeping your child in special education indefinitely may seem protective, most parents envision their kids will eventually enter mainstream classrooms. Remedial programs offer the stepping stones to make this aspiration a reality. Teachers continually assess students’ skills and readiness to integrate into general education, modifying the curriculum to support both remedial and grade-level content.

This dual approach allows kids to learn the critical competencies to thrive in a neurotypical classroom while also exposing them to traditional coursework. Teachers will also make recommendations about when your child has built the skills necessary to transition fully into standard classes, either partially or full-time. 

By continually assessing each child’s abilities, remedial teachers can advise parents on when mainstream integration is appropriate. They will discuss if a partial transition makes sense, such as attending a neurotypical science or gym class with support. Or, when ready, they’ll recommend full inclusion with varying levels of ongoing accommodations.

Peace of Mind That Your Child is Learning Optimally

Children learning due to special classes in Bangalore

While every parent wants their child in the least restrictive environment possible, for some kids with ASD, completely mainstream classrooms simply move too fast. Remedial classes allow your child to learn at their own pace without becoming overwhelmed. 

When children are stressed, anxious, confused, or unable to focus – they often cannot absorb instruction optimally.

This results in limited developmental and academic gains. Alternatively, the streamlined remedial setting enables reliance on strengths while strengthening weaknesses so children can learn how they learn best. 

This means more effective mastery of social, emotional, communication, and scholastic competencies critical for the future.

How Specialized Instruction at EAS Sets Kids Up for Success

In addition to helping your child, remedial programs like those offered by Early Autism Services (EAS) provide parents with resources and support, too! From your child’s individualized education plan meetings to PTA gatherings – you’ll interact with teachers, administrators, specialists, and other families experiencing similar challenges. EAS also offers parents helpful school resources like parenting workshops and recommendations on fulfilling their child’s unique needs, even in a home setting.

While the idea of special education may initially evoke emotion, remember it is specially designed instruction to meet your child exactly where they are. 

By choosing remedial classes at specialized institutions at EAS, you are giving your child the best possible start for their future. Besides, you also empower yourself with a knowledgeable community that will support your child’s growth as well as your family’s well-being.

At EAS, we prioritize compassionate care rooted in evidence-based therapies so your child can develop the tools to thrive now and for years to come. 

Our experienced teachers and behavioral clinicians personalize remedial programs specifically designed to meet each child’s needs across academic, communication, sensory, and behavioral domains.

So, don’t wait any longer! Contact us to learn more about our services and discover how EAS can provide the supportive environment your child needs to reach their full potential.

Get in touch now – +91 8929153820