Informative Speech On Autism

It has been estimated that the prevalence of autism in the United States is 1 out of every 110 births1. So it is of no surprise that many of us know or will know a friend or family member who has a child with autism.
When a child is first diagnosed, parents often scramble to find appropriate autism services, doctors, schools and therapists. What we dont always anticipate is that relationships with friends, family and neighbors often change. Some will stand by our side, doing what they can to help and embrace our child no matter the diagnosis. However, some people will either sit quietly on the sidelines or abandon the relationship altogether.Being There 10 Things You Can do to Help a Family Whose Child Has Been Diagnosed with Autism
So what
Discussing Autism
To talk about autism or to not to talk about autism?That is the question. The answer is It depends. Most parents who have kids on the spectrum are more than willing to talk about autism. But there are parents who do not want to disclose the diagnosis, talk about autism at all or how it affects their child. Some parents may be in denial about the diagnosis and will not even want to say the A word let alone discuss the topic.
So if you are a friend, what do you do? Let your friend bring up the topic of autism, and do ask how the child is doing. Even if a friend does not use the A word, he/she will appreciate you asking how their child is doing in general without ever discussing autism. If your friend is open about the diagnosis, showing interest in their child and the topic of autism is certainly appropriate. Because we never take progress for granted, parents who have kids with special needs are proud of their childrens smallest accomplishments. To know that friends care about our kids makes sharing these times all the more
What Does a Child With Autism Look Like?What Does a Child With Autism Look Like 10 Things You Can do to Help a Family Whose Child Has Been Diagnosed with Autism
Seems like a strange question. But I know that there have been times when a person has met my son and then makes a comment such as, He doesnt seem like he has autism. or He doesnt look like he has autism. The interesting thing is that there is no look to autism. Yes, some of our kids may have similar behavioral or social characteristics, but they are all very different. So this is why if someone tells me they have experience in autism, that doesnt mean they will know or understand my child.
If you do know, watch or teach another child with autism, it is best not to compare what you know to the child you are meeting. Also, I would refrain from telling your friend about how you think autism should look. Being open to learning the hallmarks of autism is important, but learning about the individuality of each child who has autism is the best