One of the first things parents of autistic children learn about is special interests. Children with autism often develop a deep passion for specific subjects. Supporting your autistic child in pursuing these special interests can not only enhance their well-being but also create a wonderful opportunity for you to bond with them.
If you are ready to support your child through their special interests, here is a guide you can refer to whenever you need it.
Identify the Special Interests
Communication with your child with autism can doubtlessly be a challenge. When trying to understand the interests of your child, it is always recommended to keep the conversation open-ended. Let your child speak their mind at their pace. Even if it is hard for them to express themselves initially, they will eventually open up about their interests and share them with you.
Once you know what your child is interested in, it is always a good idea to participate in their shared activities. For example, if they feel good about painting, you can dedicate a day to painting with them every week. This can be the best practice to spend quality time with your autistic child and understand their interests in depth. You can also involve their siblings in their special interests to encourage your autistic child and boost bonding among your family as a whole.
It is okay even if your child does not have any specific interests. Like all children, autistic children are unique too. They may develop their interests over time. It is best to not assume any of their interests. Even if their interests are generalized at this time, you can encourage them to explore more and discover what they enjoy the most.
Join a Support Group
Some parents can get overwhelmed when they are unable to find common ground with their autistic child. These feelings are natural, and in such circumstances, you may feel unsure of what to do. In order to find a solution, it is recommended for parents of autistic children to join autism support groups and communities.
According to the World Health Organization, every 1 in 100 children has autism. This means that you are not alone. Many parents have the same struggles as you. Autism support groups allow you to experience a sense of community. You can connect with these parents who understand your struggle and provide you with emotional support.
In addition to providing emotional support, you can also learn from the experiences of other children in the same situation. In this safe space, you can learn unique ways to connect with your children, communicate with them, and help them thrive. These groups provide a safe space where you can connect with other families who understand your journey and can help you feel less isolated.
Create a Safe Environment
Once you have identified the special interests of your child with autism, the next step is to play your part in facilitating their interest. For example, if your autistic child is passionate about painting, you must provide them with all the essential tools to thrive. This may include paintbrushes, acrylic and water paints, easels, and more.
Providing your autistic child with a safe space to explore and hone their interests can help them thrive. Make sure to give them ample time to bring their interests to life and provide them with all possible support in practicing their special interests in a safe space. In addition, dedicated spaces also reduce distractions that may trigger them.
Creating a safe and supportive environment for your child shows your commitment to helping them thrive. In addition, you can use their special interest as an opportunity to spend quality time with them. This can lead to you having a stronger bond with your child and expressing your love for them in their personalized love language.
Use Special Interests for Learning
Your child’s special interests should not be limited to a specific time. Once you have identified their interest, you can try incorporating them into learning. For example, if your child is interested in music, you can use their interest in educational endeavors. This way, you can make learning highly engaging for your child.
Using your child’s interests, such as creating rhymes and clapping, can enhance their learning experience and help them solve problems. You can also use instruments like keyboards or xylophones to encourage creativity and fine motor skills. It can not only be fun but also encourage your child to be excited about learning new things every day.
Build Social Connections
Whether your child is fascinated by dinosaurs, music, or mathematics, there is always someone out there who may share the same interests as them. Finding other people who share the same interests as your child can help you encourage socializing for them. It is the best way for your autistic child to build friendships and communicate outside their immediate family.
Engaging with individuals and groups who share the same interests as your autistic child can promote a sense of belonging. This can boost their confidence and enhance their socialization skills. When children connect over something they enjoy, it reduces anxiety, increases engagement, and makes socializing more enjoyable and natural.
Assist Skill Development
When you encourage your child to work on their special interests, they may be learning and experiencing a lot more than what you see on the surface. Special interests are not only a means for children with autism to stay engaged; they can also contribute to skill development over time. These interests help children maintain focus and motivation, making day-to-day life more manageable for them.
For instance, if your child shows an interest in mathematics, they will learn much more than just the basics of the subject. They will not only enhance their problem-solving abilities but also develop critical thinking skills. In addition, they may join social circles that share the same interests, which can help improve their social skills.
Besides soft skills, self-regulation may be one of the best things your child can learn through special interests. When you encourage an autistic child to pursue their special interest, they can learn to calm themselves in stress by engaging in activities that relax them. It can also encourage the development of routines and predictability.