What is autism spectrum disorder?
Autism spectrum disorder in children is a neurological condition that affects brain development. It is related to a number of factors such as living environment and genetics. In particular, children with siblings with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) will have a higher risk of developing the same disease.
Some children may show many early signs of autism spectrum disorder, while others show only one or two signs and symptoms become more pronounced as they get older.
Children with this disorder often experience stress for many reasons in their daily activities, have difficulty expressing emotions and experience anxiety, which can lead to destructive behavior.
Therefore, to help children develop and achieve their full potential, build a supportive and appropriate environment where children with autism feel safe.
Regarding this, Dr. Prarthana Karumbaiah K, Developmental Pediatrician and Associate Professor at Ramaiah Memorial Hospital in Bangalore (India) - shared that autism spectrum disorder is a series of mental disorders belonging to the neurological disorder category, including autism and Asperger syndrome.
Individuals with this condition often have problems with communication and social interaction and restricted, repetitive behaviors, interests, or activities.
Children with autism spectrum disorder are characterized by difficulties in social interaction and social communication in a variety of contexts. This interferes with the child's normal development from developing relationships with parents and family to making friends in a group of friends.
Method
Developing social skills in children with autism is a challenge and a developmental process from infancy to adulthood.
Dr Karumbaiah K advises that social skills will help children play with others by sharing, interact with others through words or actions, manage emotions and solve problems.
Some strategies that family members of children with autism spectrum disorder can use are role-playing, practicing playing together (ball games, hide and seek, chess...) to enhance the child's ability to interact.
In addition, you also need behavioral, psychological and educational interventions. Because now many programs can address the social, language and behavioral difficulties associated with autism spectrum disorder have been implemented.
Some programs focus on reducing unusual behavior and teaching new skills. Other programs focus on teaching children how to act in social situations or communicate with others.
The right treatment for autism spectrum disorder also depends on the child's age, the severity of the disorder, and whether the child has any other medical problems, Dr. Karumbaiah K notes. Autism spectrum disorder cannot be cured, but children can often overcome many of the problems with communication and socialization.
