Parent Training
Raising a child with autism, ADHD, or another developmental difference is as much learning and discovery as it is anything else. Every day of autism parenting is unique, and maybe the most powerful autism tool for parents is information.
Autism parents’ support and training is not about making you the therapist– that is our role at Excel Together. Instead, it’s about providing evidence-based, practical strategies to support your child. With the right autism and ADHD support for parents, you can positively influence your child’s development of independence, emotional regulation, and basic life skills outside of therapy.
Why Parent Training Matters
Therapists, educators, and experts all contribute to a child’s growth, but nobody is with them as much as you. Autism parenting training is therefore so important– because change does not just occur in therapy, but at dinner, in the grocery store, at bedtime story time, and in normal interactions.
Parent training assists with
- Understanding behaviors: Instead of reacting to negative behavior, you’ll learn to identify patterns and triggers, making it easier to prevent or manage them
- Building communication skills: Whether your child Whether your child communicates verbally, through PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) or using an AAC (Augmentative and alternative communication) device, learning how to support their communication helps reduce frustration
- Becoming independent: Practice of self-care skills like dressing, brushing teeth, and doing simple tasks increases independence and confidence
- Having a regular, structured routine: Regularity is especially beneficial in autism parenting. Clear routines and expectations facilitate productive daily growth.
Practical Autism Tools for Parents You Can Implement Today
Parent training sessions offers one-on-one support for parents of children with autism and ADHD, but here are a few methods you can adopt immediately.
Visual Schedules
Most children, especially children with autism, will follow instructions if you make use of pictures, charts, and checklists to inform them what comes next.
Make Directions Simple and Direct
Rather than presenting a lengthy description, use clear and direct terminology like, “Wear shoes,” rather than, “We are going to leave the house soon, so you’d better get ready.”
Positive Reinforcement Autism Parenting
Reward the child when he or she has done things correctly. This can be as simple as saying, “Great job in picking up your toys!” Positive reinforcement results in the activity repeating.
Calm Down in Tough Moments
Your child learns emotional control from you as well. When you respond in a calm manner and in an even voice, you are teaching your child to do the same. Leading by example is one of the best autism tools for parents.
Provide Choices to Encourage Cooperation
Instead of telling your child it is time for bed, you can try asking them, “Do you want to read one book or two before bedtime?” The autism parenting tactic of offering options empowers your child to feel more in charge while still maintaining the routine.
