Did you know that WHO has confirmed that globally, 1 in 100 children has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? Parenting a child with ASD can be both rewarding and uniquely challenging, especially for single parents. Single parents face additional responsibilities and pressure points but also experience resilience, personal growth, and a deeper bond with their children.
According to the United States Census Bureau, in 2023, there were 9.8 million single-parent households in the U.S. These included 7.3 million mother-only and 2.5 million father-only families. And if you are the one with an autistic child completing the family, this article is for you. We will discuss every aspect of caring for children with ASD as a single parent.
Ensure Proper Day Care
As a single parent, you have to work to make ends meet, and that means leaving your special needs child alone at home. However, there’s a way that will not only help you go to work at ease but also give you time for self-care and thus reduce stress. Hiring a daycare nurse specializing in ASD care will give you the much-needed time to focus on your career and personal well-being.
Look for an experienced daycare nurse with qualifications like DNP or RNP and experience working with children with ASD. It should not be hard to find one since there are more nurses these days, thanks to faster and more reliable online courses. According to Wilkes University, online nursing degrees are as effective as regular classes and take half the time to complete.
So, whether it’s someone with an online DNP program certification or a regular degree, look for a professional who is good with children and knows ASD. According to a study, a nurse with a master’s degree has the highest average knowledge of ASD, and that’s who you should be looking for.
Understand the Unique Needs of Your Child
An experienced nurse can help you understand your child’s specific challenges and strengths. However, getting a professional diagnosis is essential to help yourself and the nurse you hire. Early diagnosis and intervention are the key to improving your child’s quality of life and development.
Remember that ASD is a spectrum disorder, and each child with ASD has their unique challenges. While some may have mild symptoms, others may face more severe challenges. Observing your child’s behavior, preferences, and triggers is crucial to understand their needs. This will make your role as a single parent easier and help you tailor your parenting approach to your child.
Choose the Right Educational Setting
Choosing the right educational setting is one of the best ways to foster your child’s development. A recent study revealed that only 26% of children with ASD enjoy school. At the same time, one in four parents believe their autistic child’s school did not fully address their needs.
Look for schools with specialized programs and additional support for children with ASD. If your region doesn’t have an appropriate school for autistic children, consider homeschooling them. Whatever decision you make, consider your child’s specific needs, learning style, and strengths.
If you put your child in a mainstream school, don’t hesitate to advocate your child’s needs. Ensure the 504 plan or the Individualized Education Program (IEP) reflects your child’s specific requirements and goals. Stay on top of your autistic child’s education by regularly communicating with teachers and therapists.
Fostering Your Child’s Development
According to Statista, the global autism treatment program market is expected to be valued at around $4 billion by 2032. However, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for children with ASD.
As a single parent, you must research options like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech therapy, and occupational therapy. These therapies focus on skill learning, communication development, and motor skills, among others.
Another important factor in the development of children with ASD is social interaction. Encourage your children to meet others through playdates with neurotypical peers, support groups, and everyday activities, including sports and clubs. These experiences will help your child learn social skills, gain confidence, and build friendships.
No two children with ASD are alike and have their own set of unique challenges. As a single parent, you must observe your child’s unique requirements. This will help you plan and curate a dedicated growth plan for your child. Remember, patience is the key, and by embracing the differences that make your child unique, you can make life a whole lot easier for them.