If you are reading this article, then you probably have an autistic sibling. Often, autistic children can get nervous with their actions, and so this article was written for those who have to manage this situation.
Steps
Step 1. Learn about autism
If you've just found out that your sibling is autistic, you should first take a couple of weeks to get used to this fact. Research what autism is and how others cope with it.
Step 2. Talk to him / her
Now that you have an idea of what autism is, you have to face the situation. In severe cases, people with autism seem to be saying nonsense, yet they are not stupid. Talk to him as you would a friend. If your brother is not mentally retarded, it will be easier for you to talk to him. Don't yell or yell at him. Also, don't talk to him as if he were a child, that would hurt his feelings.
Step 3. Spend time with him
Do what he wants you to do, even if it seems ridiculous or embarrassing. Never, don't let him do something that could harm himself or anyone else. However, this is your brother, just go with the flow. If your friends find out and ask what you are doing, it may be necessary to tell them that your brother is autistic. It might also be useful to explain to them what autism is.
Step 4. Help him with his homework
Most children with autism have difficulty with homework and may need your help. Speak calmly and don't rush. If you feel frustrated and have a mood breakdown, get an adult to help calm them down. Explain things simply.
Step 5. Make an agreement with him
Children with autism usually do unexpected things like saying they don't know the answer to a question when they do. If you ask him a question he doesn't answer when you know he knows the answer, keep in mind that even scientists don't know everything about autism. For now, all you can do is try to calm him down. The solutions vary from person to person.
Step 6. Try to understand autistic behavior
When children and adolescents with autism experience stress, they can often act strangely than normal. The best you can do for them in these moments is to talk to them in a quiet tone and be there for them. Your autistic brother loves you, even if it's not obvious. He loves you and needs you.
Step 7. Try to understand
Your brother did not choose to be autistic and you should treat him as you would treat other children his age. Children with autism may say inappropriate things, or things that are not very diplomatic. They may also like smells or sense some strange things. This is just another aspect of your brother, and soon, you will get used to it. Don't take what they say too seriously, they may simply not know when it's time to be quiet or keep their opinions to themselves. Remember, living with your brother and taking care of him is making you a really big and strong person.
Step 8. Be there
This is very important. If the kids in the school find out about your brother's autism, they might make fun of him. Support your brother and if he cries, comfort him. Treat him like you would treat your best friend.
Step 9. If your autistic sibling is slightly older than you (say 10 months - 1 year) you could probably consider his / her behavior normal, since you have lived with him / her since you were born
However, other people will feel sorry for you, saying things like, "Oh, I'm so sorry your brother is autistic," while teachers might give your brother good ratings, and you know he didn't do anything. Everyone will be willing to give him more attention, even if you are very good in all subjects. You have to accept this fact, because most people don't see autistics the way you do. This is just a fact. Even your parents will not realize this because they have never lived with an autistic child.
Advice
- Remember not to raise your voice at them or around them. Some autistic children may feel uncomfortable when someone speaks out loud - even when it is not directed at them. Keep calm and be understanding and loving
- Don't lower your speech when you talk to them. They are smarter than you think.
- Ignore any fear when you support it.
- Talk quietly to your brother.
- There are diets that may or may not help, such as the Feingold diet, or the gluten-free and casein-free diet.
