Maturity in autistic children is an important and challenging process that parents and occupational therapists must go through with full awareness. In fact, physical and hormonal changes, emotional behaviors and the need to train self-care skills make this period more complicated, that's why being aware of these changes and their management methods helps parents to prevent behavioral and social problems and most importantly accompany their child on the path of healthy physical and mental development.
At what age does puberty start in autistic children?
Puberty in autistic children starts between 9 and 14 years old like other children, but there are differences in the process of physical and sexual development. In fact, some children may enter puberty earlier or later, so their physical and behavioral symptoms will be different in severity and timing.So regular examination of growth by a doctor and attention of parents to physical and behavioral changes can help to pass this period with safety and proper support.
physical changes of autistic children during puberty
The physical changes of autistic children during puberty are similar to other children, but occur with different intensity and timing. These changes include rapid growth in height and weight, hormonal changes, growth of unwanted hair in the armpits and genitals, changes in body shape, and in boys voice changes and penis growth.
But on the other hand, for girls, the onset of menstruation and the growth of breasts are important signs of physical maturity. Considering all the mentioned cases, it is very important to monitor the parents and the doctor to follow the normal growth process and identify any possible disorders.
How to prepare your autistic child for adulthood?
Preparing a child for autism disorder is very important for puberty because physical and mental changes can cause anxiety and unexpected behaviors. Therefore, parents can make this period more bearable for the child by planning properly and teaching the necessary skills.
- Talking about physical and sexual changes in simple and understandable language for children
- Teaching personal hygiene skills such as washing and body care
- Encouraging the child to express feelings and emotions in a healthy way
- Provide psychological support and answer the child's questions with patience
- Coordination with school and teachers for social and educational support
- refer to the best occupational therapy center if needed for training specific skills
how to help an autistic child during puberty
Helping an autistic child during puberty requires physical, psychological and social support so that this period can be passed with minimal stress and difficulty. For this reason, parents can provide appropriate conditions by being aware of physical and behavioral changes, teaching self-care skills and managing emotions.
- Accompanying the child in accepting physical and mental changes and explaining them in simple language
- Teaching personal hygiene skills such as showering, changing clothes and body care
- Creating a safe and calm environment to reduce stress and anxiety
- Helping the child in managing emotions and expressing emotions in healthy ways
- Teaching social skills and preparing to interact with peers
- Discussion about relationships and social behaviors appropriate to the child's age
- Parents' constant support and patient answers to the child's questions and concerns
Note: if needed, refer to The best occupational therapy center in Ahvaz is very important for the consultant and personalized programs.
Does autism get more severe during puberty?
Autism does not necessarily become more severe during puberty, but hormonal and physical changes cause more emotional behaviors, anxiety or irritability. Many autistic children face more social and communication challenges during this period, which may make their behaviors more complex than before.
Therefore, parental support, creating regular routines, teaching emotion management skills, and most importantly, expert counseling help a lot to control these changes and get through this period.
social challenges of autistic children during puberty
During puberty, autistic children face special social challenges because physical and hormonal changes affect their behavior and interactions. These challenges can include difficulty in communicating with peers, inability to understand social cues, increased sensitivity to criticism and environmental changes.
Even some children show more interest in friendship and peer relationships, but they do not have the necessary skills for interaction. But we must mention that teaching social skills, practicing social situations and supporting parents and school can help reduce these challenges.
FAQ
Rapid growth in height and weight, voice change in boys, hair growth and the onset of menstruation in girls are important signs of puberty. are.
By practicing social situations, teaching ways to express emotions and talk about interactions with peers can be done.
The physical process is similar, but the intensity and timing of behavioral and emotional changes may be different.
Finally…
Puberty in autistic children is associated with physical, behavioral and social challenges that require special attention of parents and occupational therapists. By providing a safe environment, teaching self-care and social skills, and expert counseling, the maturation process can be completed safely and without tension. Note that the continuous support of parents plays a key role in reducing anxiety and strengthening the child's independence during this period.
