Autism – Information and Support for Parents

Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference that can affect how a child communicates, interacts, processes information and experiences the world around them. Every autistic child is different. Some children may find changes, social situations, communication, sensory experiences or emotional regulation more difficult. Others may have particular interests, strong attention to detail, excellent memory, creativity, honesty or a deep knowledge of subjects they enjoy. At Ysgol y Graig, we focus on understanding the individual child, their strengths, their needs and what helps them to feel safe, included and successful.

Things you can try at homeSome strategies that may help include:

• Keep routines as predictable and consistent as possible.
• Prepare your child for changes in advance.
• Use visual timetables, now-and-next boards, calendars or pictures.
• Give clear, simple instructions and allow extra processing time.
• Avoid giving too many instructions at once.
• Give your child time to recover after busy, noisy or demanding situations.
• Notice possible sensory triggers, such as noise, clothing, smells, lights or crowded environments.
• Create a calm, low-stimulation space your child can use when they feel overwhelmed.
• Support your child to identify and communicate their emotions.
• Use your child’s interests to build confidence, communication and learning.
• Praise effort and recognise small successes.
• Offer choices where appropriate to support independence and reduce anxiety.

What works for one child may not work for another, so it can be helpful to notice patterns and identify the strategies that make the biggest difference.

Communication and emotional regulationSome autistic children may communicate their feelings through behaviour, especially when they are overwhelmed, anxious or unable to explain what they need. It can help to think about what may be happening underneath the behaviour. Your child may be tired, confused, worried, overstimulated, frustrated or finding a demand too difficult.
Using calm language, reducing demands temporarily and giving the child time and space can often be more helpful than trying to reason with them when they are already overwhelmed.

Talk to us
If you have concerns about your child’s communication, social interaction, sensory needs, behaviour, emotional regulation or learning, please speak to their class teacher in the first instance. We can discuss what you are seeing at home, what we are seeing in school and the strategies already being used. Where appropriate, the class teacher can work alongside our ALNCo Mrs Pomeroy and wider school team to consider what further support may be helpful.

A child does not need to have a diagnosis of autism before appropriate support and reasonable adjustments can be put in place.

Useful support for families​

National Autistic Society
Provides information and advice for autistic people and their families, including support around education, behaviour, communication, sensory needs and diagnosis.
Autism Wales
Offers information, resources and practical guidance for autistic children, young people and families in Wales.
Your GP / Health Professional
If you have concerns about your child’s development, communication or behaviour, you can speak to your GP or another health professional for further advice.

We would also encourage families to speak to school, as information from both home and school can help professionals build a fuller picture of a child’s needs.

Remember
Autism is not something a child needs to be “fixed”. Understanding, appropriate support, predictability and acceptance can make a significant difference to a child’s confidence, wellbeing and ability to thrive.
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At Ysgol y Graig, every child belongs, believes and thrives.