When your teenager has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), you might feel unsure about how to help them. Don’t worry! We’re here to help you through this journey. In this guide, we’ll talk about ASD in teenagers and give you tips to support your neurodivergent teen. With the help of tools like Goally, you can make a difference in your teen’s life. Let’s learn more about ASD and how you can support your teen.
Table of Contents
What You Need to Know About ASD in Teenagers
It’s important to remember that ASD is a spectrum, which means every person’s experience is different.
Here are some important things to realize about ASD in teenagers:
- ASD affects how teens communicate, interact with others, and behave.
- Teens with ASD might have trouble understanding social cues and expressing themselves.
- They may also repeat certain behaviors or have strong interests in specific topics.
- ASD is different for everyone, so each teen’s needs will be unique.
Understanding your teen’s unique needs is the first step in providing the right support. Goally’s learning tablet for kids and apps can be a valuable resource in helping you better understand and support your neurodivergent teen.
Read More: 3 Signs of Autism in Teenage Girls
How to Support Your Teen: Tips for Success
1. Encourage Open Communication
Help your teen feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. Be patient and give your kid time to think and respond during conversations. Active listening and showing empathy can go a long way in making your teen feel understood and supported.
Using tools like Goally can help facilitate communication between you and your teen, making it easier for them to express their needs and feelings.
2. Create a Routine
Teens with ASD often do well with routines. Set up schedules to help them feel safe and know what to expect each day. A structured environment can reduce anxiety and help your teen navigate their day more easily.
- Establish morning and bedtime routines.
- Plan regular mealtimes.
- Set aside time for homework and leisure activities.
- Use visual schedules or tools like Goally to help your teen stay organized.
The Tablet for Daily Routines:
Using tech can make routines & time management fun for teens. See all of the apps included on the Goally Tablet that build executive functioning skills:
3. Help Them Make Friends
Give your teen chances to practice social skills by joining clubs, doing group activities, or going to events based on their interests. Encourage your kid to participate in activities they enjoy, as this can help them connect with like-minded peers.
Provide guidance on social cues and help them understand the importance of listening, taking turns, and showing empathy. Role-playing can be a helpful way to practice these skills.
4. Be Their Advocate
Make sure your teen gets the help they need at school. Work with teachers and staff to create a supportive learning environment. This includes ensuring your teen receives the necessary accommodations and understanding their rights under the law.
Stay involved in your teen’s lives at school by attending parent-teacher conferences, volunteering at school events, and maintaining open communication with school staff.
Read More: Late Diagnosis of Autism Teenager
5. Celebrate Their Strengths
Notice and praise your teen’s special skills and talents. Please encourage them to follow their passions, which can boost their confidence and happiness. Help them explore new interests and provide opportunities for them to showcase their abilities.
Recognize their achievements, both big and small, and celebrate their progress. This can help your teen develop a positive self-image and a sense of accomplishment.
Dealing with Common Challenges
1. Manage Sensory Overload
Teens with ASD may be sensitive to things like loud noises or bright lights. Help them handle sensory overload by making a calm home environment and giving them tools like noise-canceling headphones for tough situations.
Create a designated quiet space in your home where your teen can retreat when they feel overwhelmed. Please encourage them to use calming strategies, such as deep breathing exercises or listening to soothing music.
2. Handle Meltdowns
Meltdowns can happen for teens with ASD. Stay calm and patient during these times, offering support and understanding. Figure out what causes meltdowns and work together to find ways to cope.
- Identify triggers and develop a plan to avoid or manage them.
- Teach your teen coping strategies, such as deep breathing or visualization techniques.
- Offer reassurance and a safe space for them to calm down.
Read More: Why are Teenagers More Susceptible to Changing Emotions?
3. Talk About Puberty and Relationships
Puberty can be hard for any teenager, but for those with ASD, it can be extra confusing. Have open talks about the changes they’re going through and teach them about healthy relationships. Discuss topics like personal hygiene, privacy, and consent in an age-appropriate manner.
Provide resources, such as books or videos, to help your teen better understand puberty and relationships. Please encourage them to ask questions and express their concerns, offering guidance and support along the way.
Helpful Resources for Parents of Teens with ASD
As you help your teen with ASD, it’s good to have trustworthy resources. Here are some suggestions:
- Books: Many books can guide you in raising a teenager with ASD. Popular titles include “The Autism Teenage Guide” by Temple Grandin and “Parenting Your Asperger Child” by Alan Sohn.
- Support Groups: Talking with other parents of neurodivergent kids can be very helpful. Look for local support groups or online forums to share experiences and learn from others.
- Professional Help: Don’t be afraid to ask for help from therapists, counselors, or other experts. They can give you advice and support tailored to your teen’s needs.
- Goally: Goally’s learning tablet and apps can provide valuable support in helping your teen develop important life skills and stay organized.
Goally | Apps To Support Life Development
Looking for fun ways to help your teen learn life skills? Try Goally! Our suite of apps helps kids develop the skills they need to become independent with FUN & evidence-based practices. You can use our visual schedule app to structure your child’s routines or teach them new skills!
Our apps teach executive function, language, emotional regulation, finger dexterity skills, and more! As your teen develops new skills, you can increase the difficulty level of the tasks in the app to challenge and motivate them even further. This helps your teen grow and progress at their own pace, while also keeping them engaged and excited about their development.
Try Goally’s suite of therapy apps on any device, & customize them starting at just $15 a month.
Your Role as a Parent: Embracing the Journey
As a parent of a teenager with ASD, you play a big part in helping them face the ups and downs of growing up. By understanding their needs, offering support, and celebrating their strengths, you can make a lasting impact on their journey to adulthood. Remember, you’re not alone in this adventure. With the right tools, like Goally, and resources, you can confidently guide your neurodivergent teen towards a bright and happy future.
FAQs About Parents Guide to ASD in Teenager
What are visual schedules, and how do they benefit teenagers with ASD? Visual schedules illustrate daily activities or tasks through pictures or symbols. They help teenagers with ASD by providing structure, enhancing understanding, and reducing anxiety around daily routines.
How can emotional regulation apps support ASD teenagers? Emotional regulation apps can help ASD teenagers by teaching them strategies to identify, understand, and manage their emotions, enhancing emotional resilience and promoting more effective communication.
What are some effective reward systems for teenagers with ASD? Effective reward systems for teenagers with ASD could include point systems, sticker charts, or digital rewards. These systems motivate positive behavior and help teens understand the consequences of their actions.
Can technology improve learning outcomes for teenagers with ASD? Yes, technology can improve learning outcomes for ASD teenagers. Interactive apps and games can make learning fun, while assistive technology can aid communication and organization.
What are the best learning tools for ASD teenagers? The best learning tools for ASD teenagers depend on their individual needs. However, standard practical tools include visual schedules, emotional regulation apps, assistive technology devices, and personalized reward systems.
This post was originally published on 05/01/2023. It was updated on 07/28/2023.
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