For the estimated 1 in 59 children in the United States who will be diagnosed with autism, according to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, finding reliable child care can be a challenge. The developmental disorder affects sensory processing, communication, and social skills, making it difficult for families to locate providers who are prepared to meet their children’s needs. This often leads to daycares rejecting children on the autism spectrum, leaving parents with no choice but to reduce their work hours or even leave their jobs. The need for extra sensitivity and understanding makes it especially hard to place these children in child care, a reality that parents and professionals in the autism field are all too familiar with.
Daycare can be a great environment for many children, but it can also present some challenges for children with autism. Most daycare centers focus on group play and activities that can be difficult for kids on the autism spectrum to engage in, as they often have difficulty socializing or reading social cues and may find it hard to interact with the other children in the center. Most daycare centers may not have the resources or staff to provide the level of individualized instruction and care that children with autism may require, which can leave them feeling overwhelmed and frustrated.
The vast majority of regular daycare or child care don’t have specialists, like Behavioral Technicians or BCA Therapists trained to help your child learn new skills or how to improve their behaviors which is key to helping your child thrive and reach their goals.
Another issue that may arise in daycare for children with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) is the lack of structure and consistency. Children with autism often thrive when routines and expectations are established and followed, and this can be difficult to do regular daycare centers or child care providers. There are often different teachers, activities, and distractions that can be hard for children with autism to keep up with, and they may be unable to cope with the frequent changes.
The sensory environment of daycare can also be a problem for children with autism. Many daycare centers are overcrowded and noisy, and the sensory stimulation can be overwhelming. Additionally, the physical environment of daycare centers may not be accessible for children with autism. For example, some centers may not have sensory rooms for children who need a calming space or the staff to give them one on one attention in the times they space away from the other children because they are over stimulated by their environment.
Finally, daycare centers may not have the resources to provide the level of support and accommodations necessary for children with autism. Many centers may not have the staff or funding to provide one-on-one help or to purchase necessary items like sensory toys or weighted blankets. Without these resources, children with autism may not be able to fully benefit from their daycare experience and learn the skills and behaviors needed to be more independent.
Overall, daycare can be a challenging environment for children with autism. It may not offer the level of structure, consistency, or support which children on the autism spectrum need, and the sensory environment of daycare centers may be overwhelming. For these reasons, daycare may not be the best option for children with autism.
Children with autism need childcare that goes beyond your typical child care. They need childcare that is also Intensive Early Intervention Programming. This is a type of therapy that is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of young children with autism. It is typically provided to children between the ages of 2 and 6 years, as early intervention is crucial for children with autism.
Intensive Early Intervention Programming is a comprehensive approach that addresses the child's social, communication, and developmental needs. It’s designed to be intensive and individualized, with the goal of helping your child reach their full potential and to improve their quality of life in a fun way that feels like play for your child.
Are you looking for a way to help your child with autism lead a more fulfilling life in an environment where they will thrive? Look no further than our Autism Learning Center! Our team of highly trained and accredited therapists and staff will work with your child to create a customized program tailored to their individual needs. And the best part is that it won't cost you anything - we accept your insurance! Contact us today to get started on you and your child’s journey towards a brighter future.
