Rule One: Maintain Hope
The first crucial rule for autism recovery is to have abundant hope. When a doctor diagnoses autism and tells parents there’s no recovery path, it can be disheartening. It’s not fair to break the parents’ hope since recoveries can and do happen, as supported by recent research. Hope keeps parents optimistic and motivated to try various treatments like medications, therapies, and engagement activities, all in anticipation of recovery. A strong sense of hope is essential for autism recovery.
Rule Two: Embrace Acceptance
Acceptance of the autism diagnosis is the second vital rule. Early acceptance is especially important because it allows for early intervention and treatment, which significantly increases the chances of recovery. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, starting treatment promptly is crucial, as even mild cases of autism are not self-recoverable and require intervention. Time should not be wasted in seeking and commencing appropriate treatment.
Rule Three: Consider Homeopathic Medicines
The third key rule is to explore homeopathic treatment options for autism. Homeopathy can be beneficial for some autism cases, though it may not work for all. For those it helps, it can be life-changing, especially if started early, around the age of 2-3 years. Common homeopathic medicines for autism include Baryta Carb, Carcinosin, Hyoscyamus, Veratrum Album, Stramonium, and Tuberculinum. However, these should only be used under the guidance of an experienced homeopathic doctor specializing in autism.
Rule Four: Constant Engagement
The fourth rule is to keep the child consistently engaged throughout the day. Active engagement is necessary; merely being with the child is not enough. Allowing the child to be alone can lead them to retreat into their own world, so maintaining constant interaction is essential.
Rule Five: Therapy Made Simple
Therapy doesn’t need to be complex or expensive. The goal is to keep the child connected to their surroundings through simple, fun-filled activities rather than formal, costly therapies. Avoid focusing on direct teaching, as most learning is passive and occurs naturally when the child is engaged with their environment. The primary aim should be to connect the child with their immediate surroundings, allowing learning to follow naturally over time.
Rule Six: Happiness and Connection
The sixth rule emphasizes the importance of keeping the child happy while engaging them. The child should not be sad, irritable, frustrated, or angry during engagement, as these emotions can hinder progress. To maintain a balance of happiness and connectedness, avoid pushing the child’s limits.
Rule Seven: Prevent Negative Effects
Avoiding the negative effects of inconsistent engagement is the seventh rule. Brief therapy sessions followed by long periods of the child being left alone can negate the positive impacts of the therapy. It’s essential to keep the child engaged consistently throughout the day to prevent them from retreating into their own world.
Rule Eight: Understand Emotions
Understanding the child’s emotions is the eighth, and perhaps the most important, rule. Emotions like crying, anger, agitation, and throwing things can hinder improvement by causing the child to withdraw. Identifying and addressing whatever is troubling the child is crucial to preventing these emotional barriers to recovery.
Rule Nine: Regulate Sugar Intake
The ninth rule is to control the child’s sugar intake, as high sugar levels can increase hyperactivity, affecting concentration and the ability to benefit from therapies. Monitoring and reducing sugar consumption is advised to enhance the child’s focus and receptiveness to treatment.
Rule Ten: Create a Home Therapy Center
The tenth rule is to make your home a therapy center. Regular schools can consume much of the child’s productive time, which could be better spent on engagement and therapies at home. If a school provides individualized, active therapies and the child enjoys attending, it can be considered. Otherwise, it’s more effective to create a home-based therapy environment, ensuring the child remains engaged in fun-filled, productive activities without the added stress of travel and formal schooling.
