Wondering, whether your child may be on the autism spectrum? It is we as parents who first "feel in our gut" that something is different. The child seems to interact differently: He or she prefers to play next to us rather than "with" us, conversation often turns into a monologue about a beloved subject and joint play can be interrupted by a slight change in the rules. Sometimes eye contact is short or, on the contrary, too intense; facial expressions are sometimes sparse, and humour and metaphors fall on deaf ears because words are taken very literally.
Then there are the everyday "inconveniences": a tag in a jumper can be unbearable, the noise in the classroom or the bell at school overloads, and a new route to kindergarten provokes a strong protest because it disrupts a beloved routine. Sometimes there is tiptoeing, swaying, arranging toys in perfect rows - ways of regulating that look "strange" from the outside, but when it comes to childhood autism are a lifeline.
Autism in children - symptoms
Often it is the kindergarten or early grades teacher who first calls these observations.
Within the group, it is apparent that it is more difficult for the child to act as a team, flexibly move between activities, plan "what's next". In noise, the gymnasium becomes a minefield; in silence, strengths are instantly revealed: phenomenal memory for details, consistency, focus on what really interests you.
Then the question arises: should we go for a diagnosis? And immediately afterwards a second - Will such a diagnosis not harm my child? This is a very natural fear. There is still a lingering belief that a diagnosis 'stigmatises', that it will close certain doors for a child.
Meanwhile, the opposite is happening in practice. it is diagnosis of autism opens the way to understanding, acceptance and effective support.
With a diagnosis, it is easier to have concrete adjustments and support, as well as peace of mind: instead of "what's wrong with us?" there is "we know what helps". So if these images sound familiar, it is not worth delaying the consultation. A reliable autism diagnosis is not a stigma, but a roadmap - so that the child can walk his or her path with fewer obstacles and a greater portion of understanding.
Skhat is the origin of the fear of diagnosis?
Parents often fear that a diagnosis will 'stick a label' on them for life. They fear that the child will be treated differently, that they will stop being seen as special and start being 'different'.
Some hope that if they don't name the problem, it will go away. But a lack of diagnosis does not remove the difficulty - only delays the moment when the child starts to receive the support he or she needs. What's more, postponing diagnosis can result in a build-up of problems in the future: from school and social difficulties, to mislabelling the child as 'naughty' or 'lazy', to reduced self-esteem and more stress in the family.
The diagnosis does not change the child - it gives understanding and opens the way to appropriate adjustments and therapy. He remains the same little person - with the same emotions, talents and way of seeing the world. The diagnosis only changes our understanding of their behaviour and what they are childhood autism.
What exactly is an autism diagnosis?
Diagnosis of autism is not a single meeting or label, but a process to help understand the child. It includes discussions with parents, observation, psychological testing and sometimes consultation with a speech and language therapist or sensory integration therapist.
Its purpose is not to 'confirm' that the child has autism, but explaining the mechanisms behind its behaviour.
- Is it about the difficulty in processing stimuli?
- Is it about a different way of understanding emotions and communication?
- Or about the need for predictability and security?
Through diagnosis, an action plan can be developed: therapeutic support, adjustments at school, as well as tips for parentshow to react in everyday situations.
Can a diagnosis harm a child?
No - provided it is carried out honestly, in an atmosphere of understanding and respect. It is not the diagnosis that harms, it is the lack of knowledge of how to use it.
Sometimes parents worry that the diagnosis will 'stay in the papers', that the school will look at it differently. In fact, the opposite is true - a diagnosis often facilitates communication with teachers, opens access to therapeutic activities and gives concrete tools for supporting the child.
An early diagnosis of autism allows us to react before emotional or social difficulties worsen and begin to affect the child's self-esteem. The sooner we know what we are dealing with - the more effectively we can help.
How diagnosis can helpóct for the child and family?
Understanding behaviour. Parents find out why their child reacts the way they do - and how to help them.
Tailored support. The psychologist, the teacher, the therapist and the family work together in one direction.
A sense of security. The child ceases to be 'misunderstood' and begins to be seen through the lens of his or her needs and abilities.
Less frustration. Instead of anger - there is calmness, empathy and acceptance.
A diagnosis of autism is therefore not the end of the road, but the beginning of building a relationship based on understanding.
What should you do if you suspect autism spectrum disorder in your child?
- Observe and record. Make a note of situations where the child reacts unusually strongly - e.g. avoids eye contact, tolerates noise badly, finds it difficult to change the plan.
- Talk to your teacher or school psychologist. Their observations can contribute a great deal.
- Apply for a consultation. A psychiatrist or child psychologist will assess whether it is worth starting a full autism diagnosis.
- Not bój is the word 'autism'. It is just a name for a certain set of characteristics that can be understood, accepted and supported.
My child has autism - what next?
After diagnosis comes action - but also relief. It finally becomes clear why certain things happen the way they do. Parents stop blaming each other, teachers begin to see real needs and the child gains the space to develop at his or her own pace. A diagnosis is not a stampede or a restriction. It is a compass that helps the family navigate the world of emotions, relationships and education with greater confidence and peace of mind.
Parent, remember! Autism is not a diseasethat needs to be 'cured'. It is a way of functioning that can be understood - provided we are not afraid of it.
Therefore, if you suspect your child has an autism spectrum disorder, don't put off the diagnosis. Talking to a psychologist can be the first step to understanding how to support your child's development and emotions - with sensitivity, knowledge and calm.
