Parenting With Autism
Just like any other neurotypical adult, people with autism can be exemplary at parenting under the right circumstances. Although an individual with moderate/ severe autism is unlikely to have the proper skill sets in order to properly parent a child, many individuals with high-functioning autism (level 1 form of autism) are more than capable of endeavoring the journey of parenthood.
Yes, many aspects of parenting can be on the tougher side for parents on the autism spectrum, however, there are also a lot of aspects in which parenting might be easier (especially if your child is on the spectrum as well).
Individuals on the spectrum who are high-functioning are well known to be fully capable of success, as they are smart and bright individuals. Although they do have issues with both sensory issues and social communication, it is not impossible to surpass these obstacles. Although considering that autism is a huge factor of an adult’s life, there are inevitable challenges to consider.
Parents on the spectrum may lack extensive social networks, and even not feel comfortable with facing forms of social communication, which is a huge part of parenting. This becomes an issue when having to perform tasks such as parent-teacher conferences, setting up playdates, taking your child to parks/playgroups, taking your child to medical appointments, and so much more, as these tasks may seem dreadful. It is imperative as a parent to be good role models and advocates for our children, which may feel difficult for parents on the spectrum. For autistic parents who also have children with autism, it is their role to provide such advocacy for their kids as well, which may feel like a mental battle while having to face their own social difficulties.
Sensory overload is also another challenge to consider, as being a parent comes with aspects such as living with the smell of crayons and dirty diapers to the noise of constant screaming and crying, to constant mess and chaos. For parents on the autism spectrum with specific sensory needs, these aspects can be overwhelming and lead to sensory overload. A huge necessity for parents on the spectrum is to find time and space away from such sensory stimulation and intrusions.
Aside from the challenges, people on the autism spectrum definitely have notable strengths that help them be successful parents. Many autistic parents develop many organized family routines as a result of an affinity for systems that help benefit their child, providing proper stability and certainty for both the child and the parent. Along with that, parents on the spectrum have proper focus and researching skills, which can be put into good use when learning how to be an effective parent and learning proper mannerisms.
Overall, having autism spectrum disorder does not limit a huge chunk of the autistic population from being able to have children. Especially for those who are high-functioning, parenthood is a definite possibility. Just like parenting for any neurotypical individual, challenges with parenthood will be inevitable, but this does not limit one’s capabilities of flourishing as a wonderful parent!
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