Lesson 1: Autism
In the first lesson, we will discuss the diagnosis of autism, actions and social support. Welcome!
Autism diagnosis
We will begin by talking about what an autism diagnosis means. We will also explain how autism is assessed and diagnosed.
Remember!
-
An autism diagnosis is made when the symptoms entail a disability in daily life.
-
The degree of disability varies a great deal from one individual to the next.
-
An autism diagnosis is not a disease, but a different way of functioning.
Developmental differences
A child with autism has developmental differences, and this video describes how.
Remember!
Autism doesn’t have to be something negative or something we have to fix. But it always requires consideration.
Concurrent diagnoses
It is common for people with autism to also have other concurrent diagnoses. In this video, we talk more about common concurrent diagnoses.
Remember!
Common concurrent diagnoses are:
- ADHD
- speech impairment
- learning difficulties
- psychiatric conditions
- medical conditions
Causes and prognosis
In this video, we go through causes of autism and the prognosis.
Remember!
- Autism is often hereditary, but circumstances can also play a role.
- Symptoms can be improved to allow for daily life to function more smoothly.
- Having a different way of functioning can be an asset.
Read more
Iceberg metaphor
What we see with autism can often be explained by the things we can’t see. We explain that in this video using the iceberg metaphor.
Remember!
To be able to change a behaviour, we must understand what is behind it. Only then can you help your child develop in the best possible way.
You can also consider the iceberg metaphor when looking at the thought model. You have to understand what is beneath the surface to be able to change and clarify things in a way that makes a difference.
Feelings about the diagnosis
When a child or young person receives a diagnosis, it may awaken different emotions and reactions. Here, we will go through what you might think upon receiving the news.
Remember!
There are no right or wrong reactions or feelings!
Think about what and how much you want to tell other people.
Feelings about the diagnosis.pdf
Tailored interventions
In this video, you will learn why it is important to enhance your understanding, adapt to the environment and develop your child’s abilities and strategies.
Remember!
- There are many different ways and methods to make things easier for someone with autism.
- There is no medicine or cure for autism. But there are medicines for other associated challenges, such as issues with sleep or anxiety.
Autism Sweden association
If you have a child with autism, you can become a member of a local district association. In the video, we talk more about that.
Read more
Social support
Here, we explain what social support is available if you have a child with a disability in your family.
Remember!
You can receive different kinds of support from the state, region, municipality and associations if you have a child with a disability.
Parents explain
Receiving the diagnosis
Hear other parents talk about what it was like to receive news of the diagnosis. Emil and Berta also talk about what it was like when they received their diagnoses.
Telling people
Do you tell other people about your child’s diagnosis? Hear parents of children with autism talk about it! Emil, who has autism, also talks about how open he is about his diagnosis.
Conclusion lesson 1
Great work!
You have now gone through the first lesson of the parents class.
Consider
Please reflect on the questions:
- Do you identify with anything (relating to you or your child) heard in the first part of the class?
- Does your child have additional challenges that are unrelated to autism?
- What was it like when you learned that your child has autism?
Lesson content
If you would rather read the content of the videos from lesson 1, you can click on the document below.