Piecing the Puzzle: Information For Parents About Signs of Autism

In the realm of mental health diagnoses and disorders, we can find ourselves overwhelmed by the complexity of terms and diversity of symptoms. As parents, that can be even more vexing when we notice traits or patterns of behavior in our children that we don’t understand. Such is the case when we ask questions concerning our children and signs of Autism.

We need to begin with reliable facts and truth to support our understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ASD is defined by the American Psychological Association as “any one of a group of disorders with an onset typically occurring during the preschool years and characterized by difficulties with social communication and social interaction and restricted and repetitive patterns in behaviors, interests, and activities.”

Screening, Services, and Support for Signs of Autism

While the range of behaviors and signs of Autism are viewed as a spectrum of social communication challenges and restrictive or repetitive behaviors and/or interests, each person diagnosed with ASD will present differently.

As we begin exploring our questions about Autism, we can talk with our child’s pediatrician or a practitioner with experience in screening autism, connect with other parents of autistic children, and even contact professional counselors to gain access to services and support for families like ours.

The first steps often involve evaluations that may reveal signs of Autism in our child’s behavior across various contexts. Being transparent about what we have noticed will be useful as we form nurturing partnerships with professionals and even parenting support groups that will equip us for the present and the road ahead.

Embracing God’s grace through professional and personal support will offer us and our children what we need to cultivate a life that reflects joy versus perpetual frustration.

Managing the microcosm of our family life can seem overwhelming at times. We may find ourselves stretched between the child who exhibits signs of Autism and still trying to balance the needs of our children who don’t. What we don’t know strains against what we do as we seek to find peace amid our drained energy and conflicted emotions.

It is rather common to encounter guilt early in our Autism discovery journey, wondering what we parents could have done differently. Yet, research indicates that Autism starts in utero, and isn’t caused by vaccines or poor parenting practices.

Parents and Perception

Externally, this misinformation can prompt defensiveness, revealing our instinct to protect our young ones from those who would mistreat them or misjudge us as parents. When we believe that we must know all the answers, we isolate ourselves and our families.

Yet, available resources are in place to support and serve us. We must be willing to shift our perspective so we can receive the help that God is sending. When we seek out specialized autism therapies, tools, and treatment, they will transform our family’s collective experience with ASD diagnosis and treatment.

God, as Father, is fully aware of the depth and expanse of love we have for our children. He is also cognizant of the mounting tension we may experience when our children encounter differences in the way that they engage with the world and how others respond to them. God loved our children first and best before He gave them to us, whether by birth or adoption.

As Creator, He formed them uniquely, with particular talents and traits that are designed to bless the world. In wisdom, He planted them in our family and has expertly graced us for the nuanced celebrations and challenges that their needs may present in a world that screams for sameness.

Although the accuser would want to use this to keep us wrestling in the dark, we don’t have to remain ignorant. Nagging anxiety silently amasses when we avoid seeking essential support. The peace of God beckons for us to encounter the Father’s heart here.

We can explore ASD and gather information to help ourselves and effectively champion on behalf of our children. Our need for more information can be a place that invites curiosity and drive to learn and explore instead of internalizing shame and frustration. As with anything, the Holy Spirit comes alongside to walk us through the maze of the unknown.

Next Steps

Consider your own experience with noticing possible signs of Autism in your child. You don’t have to be an expert in anything, but being willing to learn and open to what God wants to teach, will bless you and your family. Explore the resources on this site, select a counselor, and schedule an appointment. While it may take time, you can begin to piece together the puzzle as you navigate this experience with your child and ASD.