Caring for an autistic child

What is autism?

Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a naturally occurring variation in the way the brain develops and processes information and is part of neurodiversity. Autism exists on a spectrum, which means each autistic child has their own strengths, challenges and ways of experiencing the world.

What are the signs of autism?

Autism can look different in every child.

Autism can shape the way your child:

• communicates and expresses themselves
• processes information
• relates to their environment and the people around them

Autistic children can show:

• different ways of communicating and interacting
• repetitive behaviours and focused interests
• sensory differences

You may notice these signs in any child and may look different from one child to another.

Watching your baby's social and communication development in the first 1 to 2 years can help you notice how they are developing and if they are showing signs of autism. Most babies begin to show social communication such as looking at you, smiling, responding when you say their name and using gestures such as waving or pointing. These are common developmental experiences that help you understand how your baby is connecting with the world around them.

Young autistic children may show sensory differences such as being more sensitive or less sensitive to sounds, light, movement and textures. Differences with textures may appear when introducing solids to babies.

Visit Autism Awareness Australia to understand more about the signs of autism in young children.

What causes autism?

There is no single known cause of autism. Autism is a natural part of human neurodiversity, and researchers continue to learn more about it.

Paracetamol during pregnancy

Strong scientific evidence shows there is no causal link between the use of paracetamol in pregnancy and autism or ADHD. For more information from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), visit Paracetamol use in pregnancy. If you are concerned or have questions, speak to your doctor or midwife.

Childhood vaccinations and autism

There is no link between childhood vaccinations and autism. Vaccines given in early childhood do not cause autism. Reliable scientific research has found no connection between childhood vaccinations and autism. Claims suggesting a link have been carefully investigated and disproven. Vaccinations in Australia are safe and play an essential role in protecting children and the wider community from serious infectious diseases.

What should I do if I notice signs of autism in my child?

If you notice signs that your child may be autistic, speaking with your doctor or child health nurse can be a helpful first step.

They may suggest referrals to health professionals with experience supporting autistic children and their families. This may include:

• paediatricians (children's doctor)
• psychologists
• occupational therapists
• speech pathologists
• social workers

These specialists will aim to understand your child as a whole person. They will look at their strengths and support needs and explore your child's language and thinking skills.

An early assessment can help you access:

• advice
• early supports and programs
• family support

These support systems can help your child and family feel understood, supported and confident moving forward.

What should I do if my child is diagnosed as autistic?

Early, appropriate support for autistic children can help them and their families feel supported and confident. Talk with your child's health professionals about which therapies and supports best suit your child's strengths and support needs.

What is early intervention?

Early diagnosis and a tailored early intervention program can help your child get support that encourages wellbeing and participation across their life.

Early childhood intervention can include therapies and supports tailored to your child's development. It can also help your child build communication, play and social skills. This can help them manage their feelings in a healthy way and participate at home, childcare and school.

Your child might benefit from:

• speech and language therapy, to support communication
• occupational therapy, to support participation in everyday activities
• psychological therapy, to support social understanding and help them manage their feelings
• support to ease the transition to school

It's important for parents, carers, teachers and health professionals to work together as a team.

Your child's experience of autism may vary on different days, depending on many factors. The most helpful support option depends on your child's individual needs, preferences and strengths.

Will my other children have autism?

Autism is influenced by genetic factors. It is common for autistic children to have autistic family members, although this is not always the case.

If you are planning future pregnancies, your doctor may refer you to a genetic counsellor and other support services to discuss this.

How do I care for my autistic child?

Caring for an autistic child can be both rewarding and challenging. As your child grows, their support needs may change. Your child's healthcare and support team can help guide you.

You can make things easier for you and your child by:

• learning about autism and your child's individual needs
• knowing where and how to access support
• connecting with other parents or carers for shared support and practical advice

There are many support organisations available.

What other support needs could my autistic child have?

Autistic children may also experience co-occurring conditions or additional support needs. These may include:

• anxiety or depression
• attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• eating and sleeping problems
• learning difficulties and developmental delays
• medical and genetic disorders, such as fragile X syndrome
• dyspraxia (motor co-ordination difficulties)

Each of these has different supports, and every child's experience is different.

How can I support my autistic child in family life?

You do not need to be neurodivergent yourself to support neurodiversity in everyday life.

Simple, respectful conversations with children can help build understanding and acceptance of autism in your family and community.

Supporting your child's neurodiversity helps them to feel safe, understood and valued for who they are and can have a positive impact on their mental health, wellbeing and sense of identity.

Getting support to understand your child's needs and differences can help you learn how to grow together as a family.

Where can I get financial help?

You may be eligible for financial support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Eligibility is based on your child's support needs, not just a diagnosis.

Children under 7 years

You can apply to the NDIS if your child has developmental differences or support needs. Your child can access services with NDIS funding before getting a formal diagnosis.

Carer support

Caring for an autistic person can be a long-term role. There are support services available, such as counselling, respite or joining a support group. There are income and financial supports that could be available to carers.

Read more on childhood disability and parenting support.

Resources and support

ASDetect is a free application ('app') designed for parents of children aged 11 to 30 months. It can help you understand early signs of autism but does not give a diagnosis.

Autism Spectrum Australia (ASPECT) provides information, diagnostic assessment and interventions for parents of autistic children. You can call them on 1800 277 328.

These support groups have more information about autistic children:

• Amaze
• The Spectrum
• Autism Awareness Australia

AutismCRC has an online information booklet for parents and carers that outlines what to expect during a clinical assessment of autism.

Positive Partnerships has information on supporting school-aged autistic children in many community languages.

Parenting support

You may want to join a support group for parents and carers. Most states and territories have an autism association:

• New South Wales — Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect)
• Northern Territory — Autism NT
• Queensland — Autism Queensland
• South Australia — Autism SA
• Tasmania — Autism Tasmania
• Victoria — Amaze
• Western Australia — Autism Association of Western Australia

Carer Gateway has practical information and useful resources. You can also learn more about carers' support and services in your state or territory, through Carers Australia.

Autism Awareness Australia offers self-care tips, and information on topics such as signs of autism and getting a diagnosis.

MyTime provides support for parents and carers of children with special needs.

Speak to a maternal child health nurse

Call Pregnancy, Birth and Baby to speak to a maternal child health nurse on 1800 882 436 or video call. Available 7am to midnight (AET), 7 days a week.

Languages other than English

ASPECT is an autism service provider that has resources available in many community languages.

Positive Partnerships has resources directed towards supporting autistic school-aged students, including in several community languages.

ASDetect can help parents of children aged 11 to 30 months and is available in many community languages.

Information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples

ASPECT has resources for raising support and awareness of autism for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Autism, Our Kids, Our Stories is a collection of lived experiences from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Positive Partnerships has information on supporting young autistic Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples at home and school.