Tips on Parenting Preschoolers with Autism?

“Tips on parenting preschoolers who have spectrum disorders? I’m fostering my nieces and feeling overwhelmed.” 

I think we would all feel overwhelmed if we were in your situation. It is not an easy one. I don’t know the age of your nieces or any specifics of your situation, but I think it would be good for you to consider the following ideas: 

• Educate yourself about autistic spectrum disorder (ASD): get to know ASD, understand what it means, characteristics etc. Knowledge is power and this is especially true for carers of neurodivergent children. Knowledge will give you confidence to raise your nieces. 

• Get to know your nieces: no two children with ASD are the same, get to know each of your nieces. Understand what they like, dislike, what triggers them, what keeps them calm… This can make a huge difference to your everyday life.  

• Find your tribe: parenting is hard, but parenting neurodivergent children is tougher. Find support within your local community and seek online communities as well. Connecting with parents who are following a similar journey to yours can make a big difference.  

• Take care of yourself: I know it is easy to say, but you must take care of yourself. You must be strong to be able to take care of your nieces. Be compassionate with yourself, acknowledge that you won’t get everything right, and it is OK, and remember that parenting is a skill, and like with every skill, the more you do it, the better you will get at it.  

I wish you all the best, 

Ana 

Dr Ana Aznar 

Related articles: 

Why Is Autism Rising? 

Navigating Neurodivergent Parenthood 

How to Support a 12 Year-Old with Autism and ADHD?