1. Make sure that your child has free time to play, learn, draw, invent, or take things apart.

2. Their hobbies and special interests bring them a lot of joy. Watch and listen when they share their interests with you- this is how they let you into their world.

3. Let them be part of the planning process when deciding where to go and what to do. When children with autism are always told what to do they feel out of control.

4. Practice saying "yes".

5. Allow your child to have a pet of his own. children with Autism have a special connection with animals. 

6. Invest in your child's hobbies.

7. Focus on your child's gifts and talents- not on his or her weaknesses.  Treasure who your child is.

8. Be sensitive to the environment. Children with Autism hear, see, feel and sense things that others can't even begin to comprehend. Make sure your child has a quiet place to escape to whenever possible. 

9. Know what your child's favorite colors are, if you use their favorite colors around the house it will have a calming effect. 

10. If your child begins to get upset, overwhelmed or starts to melt down- do not belittle the problem that is causing the meltdown.  Try to help your child feel safe and secure by meeting his needs.  If you can't fix or change the situation try to talk to him about his special interests and hobbies. When an autistic child is thinking about his hobbies he engages a different part of his mind and will often stop focusing on whatever is upsetting him.

11. You may think your child is upset for no reason-  there is always a reason- Children with Autism are very sensitive (this can be a gift) try to keep your child in a gentle and pleasing environment when possible. Make your home a pleasant place.

Now, let me share some of the (silly) things that I find upsetting (I have asperger's): 

• Blue walls - blue walls make me feel sick.
  
• The feeling of Plastic furniture - yuck. 
• The hum of a TV or a Dishwasher- like fingernails on the chalk board! 
• Sitting in the center of a large room - makes me feel like I'm on a boat. 
• A condescending tone of voice- causes a burning feeling or pressure in my head. 
• An unexpected change in plans- I get the feeling that I had just put together a puzzle and someone came along and messed it all up. 
• Bright overhead lighting - I feel like someone is shining a flash light in my eyes.  

(Now that you have seen my "llist" find out what is on your child's lists- and try to make a few changes- if your child can feel more peaceful, everyone will feel more peaceful.)

12. Help your child by saying "No" to things that cause your child to form addictions and waste time.  If your child plays videos games be very careful not to depend on this as the #1 form of entertainment. 

13.  Slow down, don't be so busy- enjoy life with your child.  Take time for art, hobbies, board games, cards, nature and outdoor play (kids with Autism love media- but it's not very good for them).

14.  If your child shows interest in forming a hobby are starting a collection- invest in that hobby!

15.  Avoid putting your child in situations that cause meltdowns, find alternatives. When you are taking your child to an environment that is new, or overwhelming help him to understand what to expect. 

16. Reward your child with prizes.  I can get through a very tough situation if I know I am going to have ice-cream when it's all over. Ice-cream makes everything better.

17. Have faith.  Your child is part of your family for a reason.  You have what it takes to be an excellent parent, and no one loves your child like you do.  Believe in your child's gifts and talents.  Believe that your child is a gift from God who is going to have a very special impact on the world.