7 Ways Richmond Moms Support Their Children With Autism
As moms, we’re natural at researching and advocating for our families. We want to support our children in every way we can, whether it’s creating a safe home environment or getting them the professional care they need. It’s not always crystal clear how to best support any child, but the pressure can feel especially high when your child has autism.
Parenting a child with autism can come with challenges, and figuring out how to support them is one of those challenges. We’re here to ease some of the load. Read on for seven ways to support a child with autism and give them what they need to thrive.
1. Early Intervention
The first few years of life are incredibly important for brain development, and therapies like ABA can help children build foundational skills. Early intervention can improve communication skills, encourage more constructive social interactions, and reduce behaviors that might limit your child’s independence.
By starting therapy early, you can help give your child tools to navigate social settings and responsibilities as they grow older. If you’re not sure where to start, talk to your child’s pediatrician. Share any signs of autism you may have noticed, and talk to your family’s healthcare provider about starting the diagnosis process.
2. Building a Relationship With Their BCBA
A strong relationship with your child’s Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) can help you maintain open communication. This is key for creating individualized therapy plans that truly work for your child.
Trusting and engaging with a BCBA gives families the opportunity to share details about their children’s strengths, preferences, and challenges, which your BCBA can use to inform their care plan. This can also help you make changes to your home life to better complement the skills your child works on in therapy.
3. Creating a Sensory-Friendly Home Environment
For children with autism, sensory challenges can shape how they experience the world. A sensory-friendly home provides a safe, calming space where they can regulate their emotions without feeling overwhelmed.
Simple adjustments (like installing soft lighting, quiet areas, or sensory tools) create an environment that encourages your child to explore. When they aren’t distracted by excessive sensory input, children can focus on learning and building connections.
4. Fighting for Educational Resources
Every child deserves an education that meets their unique needs, and for children with autism, advocacy is key. Working with your child’s teachers to develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 Plans helps ensure your child’s education honors their individual strengths and areas to work on.
When teachers understand your child’s needs, it can create a more supportive classroom environment. This partnership not only helps your child succeed academically but can also help them feel more confident and independent as they grow older.
5. Joining Local Support Groups
When parenting a child with autism, know you’re not alone. Support groups can help introduce you to other parents who truly understand your struggles and may have similar experiences.
Beyond providing emotional support, these groups can help you discover practical tips, local resources, and new perspectives on situations. You may even find support groups designed for children with autism to help your child experience all of these benefits, too.
6. Supporting Social Skills
Play isn’t just fun and games. Engaging in structured or sensory-friendly playtime learning activities can help your child develop social and communication skills in a safe environment. These are skills your child can build on for years to come, eventually using them to create meaningful connections with their friends.
Playtime also creates opportunities for your child to explore, connect, and build confidence at their own pace. When you encourage play that respects your child’s preferences, you’re also encouraging their ability to express themselves and overall well-being.
7. Keeping Your Cup Full
Taking care of your well-being isn’t selfish. Rather, caring for yourself allows you to show up fully for your child, whether you’re navigating therapy, advocating at school, or creating daily routines.
Self-care doesn’t have to be an elaborate setup of face masks and bubble baths — it’s more about finding small moments to recharge throughout the day. Try practicing mindfulness, connecting with friends, or simply taking a walk. Prioritizing your mental health sets an example for your child and can help you approach daily challenges with strength and patience.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to parenting children with autism, providing the right support is one of the best ways to help them flourish. It can be hard to know exactly where to start, but in general, things like early intervention, creating sensory-friendly home environments, and supporting social skills are all great ways to encourage your child’s development. Lastly, remember to take some time for yourself so that you can parent from a full cup.
Brad Zelinger is the founder and CEO of Stride Autism Centers.
