Introduction
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is one of the fastest-growing developmental conditions
worldwide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated
one in 36 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder. In Kerala,
increasing awareness and improved diagnosis have helped families seek early
intervention, but many still struggle to find the right guidance.
Autism affects communication, social interaction and behaviour. However, with timely
autism counselling in Kerala, effective therapies and strong family support, children with
autism can thrive in school, relationships and daily life.
This blog aims to explain autism clearly, highlight family-focused strategies and guide
parents on when to seek professional help.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
Definition
Autism spectrum disorder is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how
people interact with others, communicate, learn and behave. The term “spectrum” in
autism spectrum disorder refers to the wide range of symptoms and the severity of these
symptoms.
Key Characteristics
Social interaction challenges – difficulty understanding social cues, forming
friendships or engaging in conversations.
● Communication difficulties – delayed speech, limited use of gestures or challenges
with non-verbal communication.
● Repetitive behaviours and restricted interests – insistence on routines, special
interests or repetitive movements.
● Sensory sensitivities – being overly sensitive to sounds, lights, textures or certain
environments.
Early Signs in Children
Recognizing autism early can make a huge difference. Some red flags parents may notice
include:
● Delayed speech.
● Limited eye contact.
● Strong preference for fixed routines.
● Difficulty interacting or playing with peers.
If you notice these signs, consider reaching out for autism counselling in Kerala or
consulting a pediatric developmental specialist.
Causes and Diagnosis
What Contributes to Autism?
There is no single cause of autism, but research highlights multiple factors:
● Genetic factors – autism tends to run in families.
● Neurological differences – differences in brain development.
● Environmental influences – prenatal exposures or complications may play a role,
though evidence is not conclusive.
How Autism is Diagnosed
Early and accurate diagnosis is essential. The process often involves:
● Developmental screenings during routine pediatric visits.
● Clinical evaluations by psychologists, pediatricians, or neurologists.
● Importance of early detection – the sooner intervention begins, the better the
long-term outcomes.
Challenges Faced by Families
Emotional Challenges
Parents often experience stress, uncertainty and emotional exhaustion. Learning to accept
and support a child with autism can be overwhelming without proper counselling.
Social Challenges
Families may face stigma or lack of understanding from relatives, schools or society. This
highlights the need for greater autism support for families and awareness programmes in
Kerala.
Practical Challenges
● Limited access to affordable behavioral therapy for autism in Kerala.
● Finding the right autism school support in Kerala that offers inclusive education.
● Financial strain from long-term therapies and interventions.
Support Strategies for Families
Building Understanding & Acceptance
● Educate family members and relatives about autism to reduce stigma.
● Create an environment of acceptance and patience.
Communication Support
Speech and Language Therapy
Speech therapy helps children improve verbal skills, comprehension and non-verbal cues.
Alternative Communication Methods
For children with limited speech, tools such as sign language, picture boards and AAC
devices can help them express themselves.
Behavioral & Developmental Therapies
Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)
One of the most widely used therapies in Kerala, ABA uses positive reinforcement to
encourage learning and reduce unwanted behaviours.
Occupational Therapy
Helps children develop daily living skills and cope with sensory processing challenges.
Social Skills Training
Group sessions and role-play exercises help children practice real-world social
interactions.
Home-Based Strategies
● Establish consistent routines.
● Create a calm, sensory-friendly home environment.
● Use visual schedules to help children predict daily activities.
Parental Self-Care
Parents need to take care of their own emotional health:
● Join local or online parenting support for autism groups.
● Practice stress management techniques like meditation or exercise.
● Seek family counselling for autism to improve coping strategies.
Education & School Support
Inclusive Education
Children with autism benefit from individualized education plans (IEPs) that address
their unique needs. Special educators play a vital role in bridging learning gaps.
Collaboration Between Parents and Teachers
● Maintain regular communication with teachers.
● Share therapy progress, triggers and successful strategies.
Kerala Context
Kerala has seen significant progress in autism education:
● Specialized schools and therapy centers in Kochi, Trivandrum and Calicut.
● Growing availability of online therapy sessions and autism counselling in Kerala
for rural families.
When to Seek Professional Help
Red Flags for Intervention
Parents should seek help if their child:
● Is not meeting developmental milestones.
● Has severe communication or behavioural challenges.
● Shows signs of regression or social withdrawal.
Professional Support Options
Families can explore:
● Pediatricians and developmental specialists.
● Psychologists and counselors specializing in autism therapy in Kochi and other
Kerala cities.
● Online therapy platforms offering bilingual sessions (Malayalam/English).
Practical Everyday Tips for Families
At Home
● Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior.
● Break tasks into small, manageable steps.
● Celebrate every small achievement.
In Social Situations
● Prepare children for changes using visual cues.
● Practice role-play for common scenarios like visiting relatives, shops or schools.
For Parents
● Connect with other families facing similar challenges.
● Seek respite care when needed to avoid burnout.
Conclusion
Autism is not a limitation – it is a different way of experiencing the world. With the right
therapies, school support and strong autism support for families, children can lead
fulfilling lives.
At MindcareDoc, we provide expert autism counselling in Kerala, tailored therapy
sessions and guidance for parents in both Malayalam and English. Whether you are based
in Kochi, Trivandrum or anywhere in Kerala, we are here to support your family every
step of the way.
Book a consultation today and explore personalized autism treatment options for your
child.
