Psychologist Nathalie Fontana shares six essential tips for parents of autistic children. From trusting parental instincts to understanding diagnoses and self-care, she provides practical guidance for families. The expert particularly emphasizes the active role of parents in the support process.
1. Trust your instincts
If you have any doubts about your child, follow your intuition and talk quickly to competent healthcare professionals. Don’t be left alone with your questions, because your vigilance can make all the difference.
2. Seek support from recognised local or national associations
These structures allow you to talk to other parents, share your doubts and experiences, and find professionals who are aware of and well trained in autism. They are invaluable in guiding you through an often complex process.
3. Invest fully in supporting your child
Train yourself to understand the diagnosis and make sense of what you are experiencing. This will enable you to play an active role in the care you receive. Your role is essential: as a parent, you do 50% of the work. In some countries, such as Canada, this parental involvement is better recognised than in Europe. Take inspiration from this approach.
4. Evaluate your care on a regular basis
If you don’t see any progress in your child or your family situation after six months, don’t hesitate to redirect the treatment. Only rely on practices that are recognised and scientifically validated. Beware of professionals who claim to be “experts” but who are not properly trained. Here again, associations can help you make the right choices.
5. See the diagnosis as an opportunity, not a label
A diagnosis is a response that opens doors. It helps your child to understand himself better and to be understood by those around him. It’s an opportunity to work on their difficulties while at the same time highlighting their strengths, so that they can move forward in life in a calmer, more fulfilled way.
6. Take care of yourself to better support your child
Don’t try to do everything or overcompensate for your child’s difficulties. Learn to set good, appropriate limits to encourage your child’s autonomy. Don’t neglect your own fatigue, because parental burn-out is a serious reality. To avoid it, surround yourself with others, ask for help, and delegate when necessary. Preserving your physical and mental health is fundamental to supporting your child over the long term.