hi mummies, I really need some help. I have a 4 year old recently diagnosed aspergers and ADHD. I love her dearly but for the last few months I feel like we've lost our connection. She doesn't listen, it doesn't matter what I say or do. I just can't get her to follow the rules. I'm with her 24/7 with little to no down time. I have little help as my partner is too 'busy' and there's an almost 8 month waiting list for the OT. Can anyone give me some pointers as to how to get her to listen and help us reconnect. All I seem to be doing is getting cranky at her lately because I don't know what to do to get her to listen to me.
How to connect with my ASD child
How to connect with my ASD child
Posted in:
Sisterhood Stories, Parenthood Guilt, Behaviour, Kids, Aspergers & Autism
1 Replies
I'm sole parent to 20 year old with ASD. Get your daughter off to a Behavioural Psychologist or a centre that does applied behaviour analysis. I'm so tired of parents being told an OT is the answer and OT might be part of your answer but it isn't the full picture you need. You most probably need her assessed by a Speech therapist too, as many of our kids have language delays, comprehension issues etc.
Secondly if I can do it, you can do it.
When giving her an instruction bend down to her level, and tell her what to do. If she speaks in sentences of 2 to 3 words then only use four words to tell her what you want. If she is non verbal only use 1 word, if she speaks in 5 word sentences use 6 words.
Give her three seconds to comply, if she complies then praise, give her a favourite toy or food so she gets the idea that doing as I'm told = awesome!
If she didn't comply gently take her to do it even if that means physically manipulating her to do it. I'd start with asking her to do things you know she can do no matter how simple. Once she understands she can't tune you out anymore then start to introduce knew tasks.
My other advice would be is find out what her interests are. Whatever she loves the most use that to motivate her. Eg do as she was told she cheap surprise item.
Those early years are the hardest. It does get better with the right supports.