Raising a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can feel both challenging and deeply rewarding. Kids with autism see the world in their own way which can make communication, learning and social interactions tricky at times. Every child is different so there’s no one size fits all. That being said, starting early, creating routines and being actively involved as a parent can make a big difference in your child’s growth and confidence.
At Scottsdale Pediatric Behavioral Services (Scottsdale PBS), we focus on therapies that work including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech therapy and occupational therapy. We partner with families to create plans tailored to each child, building on their strengths while addressing challenges in a practical way.
Here are 20 tips to help you along the way:
1. Understand Autism
View your child’s behavior as communication not misbehavior. Attend workshops, read trusted resources and talk to clinicians to gain insight into how your child experiences the world. Pay attention to patterns, triggers and reactions as these observations can help you adjust your approach at home and in therapy.
2. Start Early Intervention
Early therapies like ABA, speech and occupational therapy can make a big difference in communication, social skills and independence. Even small gains in preschool years can set a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Helpful Tip: Ask about programs that focus on communication, socialization and daily living skills if your child is preschool aged.
3. Keep Consistent Routines
Predictable daily routines reduce anxiety and give children a sense of security. Visual schedules, charts or timers make expectations clear and transitions smoother.
Example Morning Routine:
- Brush teeth
- Get dressed
- Eat breakfast
- Pack a school bag
Prepare your child in advance for changes like leaving the house or switching activities and the day will flow more smoothly.
4. Communicate Clearly
Children with autism process language differently so simple direct instructions are most effective. Pair words with gestures or visual cues and allow extra processing time. Silence often means your child is thinking not ignoring you.
Speech-language pathologists at Scottsdale PBS create personalized communication systems, including AAC tools, to help your child express themselves more effectively.
5. Use Special Interests to Teach
Many children with autism have strong interests in specific topics. You can turn these into learning opportunities.
If your child loves dinosaurs try:
- Counting dinosaur figurines to practice numbers
- Sorting by color or size to teach categorization
- Writing short stories with dinosaurs to enhance literacy
Incorporating lessons into areas of passion increases focus and retention.
6. Teach Social Skills Through Play
Social skills require intentional teaching. Role-playing greetings, playing small group games or participating in community events provide safe practice environments.
Everyday activities also teach valuable skills. Cooking together builds teamwork, taking turns at a board game encourages patience and sharing materials during arts and crafts supports cooperation.
7. Praise Effort Not Just Results
Acknowledging progress not just achievements builds confidence. Small successes can motivate your child to keep trying.
Consider trying: Keep a list of motivators like praise, extra playtime or tokens. Reinforcing effort encourages persistence and growth.
8. Support Sensory Needs
Many children with autism process sensory input differently. Some may be oversensitive to sound, touch or light while others seek extra stimulation. Occupational therapists design sensory diets using weighted blankets, fidget tools or calm spaces to help children self-regulate and participate in activities more comfortably.
9. Work Closely With Educators
Consistency across home and school improves learning. Regular communication with teachers ensures therapy strategies are reinforced in the classroom. Scottsdale PBS partners with IEP teams to align goals, monitor progress and adjust approaches as needed.
Begin trying: Schedule weekly or biweekly check-ins to review challenges, successes and strategies.
10. Connect With Other Parents
Parenting a child with autism can feel isolating. Peer support provides advice, encouragement and emotional relief. Some ways to connect could include:
- Local or online support groups
- Parent workshops
- Community meet-ups
Sharing experiences can inspire new approaches and reduce stress.
11. Practice Relaxation Techniques
Teaching your child how to calm themselves is crucial. Mindfulness exercises, yoga and simple breathing techniques can be introduced gradually.
Start Small: Two to three minutes per day can help your child develop coping skills over time. Try adding these moments after school or before bedtime.
12. Use Visual Supports
Visual aids help children understand routines and expectations. Picture schedules, color-coded charts and timers make transitions smoother.
A bedtime checklist might include putting on pajamas, brushing teeth, reading a book and turning off lights. Visual guides reduce stress and promote independence.
13. Teach Independence Step by Step
Breaking tasks into manageable steps allows children to learn at their own pace. Techniques like task analysis and graduated prompting teach essential skills like dressing, preparing snacks or brushing teeth.
Tip: Celebrate each completed step. Over time children gain confidence and autonomy.
14. Advocate for Inclusion
Inclusive classrooms and community programs build social skills, confidence and belonging. Scottsdale PBS supports families in creating environments where children participate meaningfully alongside peers.
Consider talking to school staff about adaptations to help your child succeed in group activities.
15. Try Creative Therapies
Art, music and play therapies provide alternative ways for children to express emotions and develop skills. These approaches complement traditional therapy and encourage creativity.
Try: Music therapy can improve rhythm and coordination. Art therapy can help children communicate feelings without words.
16. Teach Self-Advocacy
Helping children express their needs increases independence and reduces frustration. Choice boards or signal cards can let children communicate discomfort, request breaks or make daily decisions.
Start in safe settings before extending these skills to school or social situations.
17. Make Family Time a Priority
Shared family activities strengthen emotional bonds and provide natural learning opportunities. Try some of these ideas:
- Weekly game nights
- Cooking or baking together
- Nature walks or outdoor play
Incorporating strategies into enjoyable routines allows children to practice skills naturally.
18. Be Patient and Flexible
Progress is rarely linear and setbacks are normal. Parents benefit from adjusting strategies as children grow. Scottsdale PBS encourages families to focus on small gains and keep perspective during challenges.
19. Celebrate Every Success
Every achievement matters whether it’s initiating play, trying a new food or completing a chore independently. Recognizing milestones builds confidence.
Some parents have found it helpful to keep a journal, scrapbook or photo collection to track achievements and motivate continued growth.
20. Plan for the Future
Preparing for adolescence and adulthood helps children develop skills for independence. Scottsdale PBS guides families in vocational programs, independent living skills and community engagement. Thinking ahead equips children with confidence and resilience for life.
Supporting Your Child Every Step of the Way
No two children with autism are alike, but using structured parenting strategies with professional therapy helps children grow confidence and independence. Scottsdale PBS works with families every step of the way. Contact us to book a consultation or tour.
