Seven support strategies designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with autism
Greta Thunberg, the 17-year-old climate and environmental activist who identifies as autistic, calls her autism a superpower. And it might just be this superpower that saves the world.
With April being Autism Month, it is a good time to celebrate the strengths of autism, says Dr David Griessel, Director of the University of the Free State Autism Support Centre (ASC), and a registered developmental paediatrician in the UFS Department of Paediatrics and Child Health.
“In this time of lockdown, my thoughts go out to parents and the challenges they may face at home. There are wonderful resources available from Autism SA, which may help them navigate these uncertain times. When we listen to Greta, a thought springs up – maybe autism will save the world,” says Griessel.
Autism South Africa has adapted a guide from the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at the University of North Carolina on the support of individuals with autism through uncertain times.
The following seven support strategies are designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with autism during this period of uncertainty.
- Supporting understanding
- Offering opportunities for expression
- Prioritising coping and calming skills
- Maintaining routines
- Building new routines
- Fostering connections (from a distance)
- Being aware of changing behaviours
#AutismMonth | #AutismAcceptance
[University of the Free State]
World Autism Awareness Day Embraces Neuro Diversity https://t.co/kMwfGpi4lW #ArriveAlive #WorldAutismDay #Autism @KZN_EMS pic.twitter.com/2eR2UV7vMx
— Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) April 2, 2019
