At times parents of teens with level 1 autism spectrum disorder have difficulty understanding and relating to their child. Daily tasks like completing homework, attending social events, and exercising proper hygiene often bring contention into the home. Likewise, many teens with level 1 autism spectrum disorder feel misunderstood and will distance themselves as a result. This process can be extremely upsetting for parents and result in them feeling unsure of how they can help.
While a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder can be overwhelming for parents, the guidelines below may be helpful to them and their teen:
- Establish a predictable routine
- Model good social behaviors
- Encourage socialization
- Provide teen with opportunities to practice social skills within the home (ie. a game of chess, family dinners, simple conversations, etc)
- Spend quality time with your teen doing activities they enjoy
- Give your teen positive reinforcement
- Be specific in the praises you give your teen
- Explain different perspectives to expand their worldview
- Encourage proper hygiene habits
- Give your teen notice if there is a change in plans
- Provide your teen with healthy meals and snacks
When trying to provide support to their teen with level 1 autism, it’s important for parents to recognize their own limits. The specialized needs of a teen with level 1 autism may be too great for them to handle on their own. Parents should not feel guilty about seeking professional help as it is often the best option in ensuring a more meaningful life for their teen with level 1 autism.
Download our White Paper and see how you can help your child with level 1 autism spectrum disorder
About Vantage Point by Aspiro
Vantage Point is a specialized offshoot of Aspiro Adventure, the program that pioneered wilderness adventure therapy. Vantage Point focuses on helping students with executive function disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and Nonverbal Learning Disorders, among others.
The Vantage Point programs are designed to build self-efficacy in our students through overwhelming mastery experiences – our students accomplish goals they never believed possible, which creates a belief that they are capable of changing their own lives for the better. We focus specifically on social dynamics and social skills to help our students connect with others and feel like they can be a part of the world. Experiential Learning is a tenet of our philosophy and our program. Paired with ongoing individual therapy and targeting specific areas for growth, our wilderness therapy programs are proven successful by outcome studies and are overseen by experienced Field Guides and clinical professionals
