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Parents with children on the autism spectrum are being given the opportunity to provide feedback on key challenges they’re facing in their day to day lives, as Autism Awareness Australia launches its first national survey in 10 years.
CEO of Autism Awareness Australia, Nicole Rogerson, says the survey will play a critical role in helping the peak body advocate for the needs of autism families across Australia.
“It’s no secret that the autism community is up against some significant reform in the coming months,” Ms Rogerson states.
An estimated one in five children in Australia show signs of neurodivergence, leading many families to discover the unique, albeit challenging journey of raising neurodivergent kids.
LiveBig is a leading allied health service for people with disabilities which provides insights and practical advice on creating supportive home environments, encouraging social connections, and building resilience within the family.
Juliet Middleton, CEO of LiveBig, spoke with The Wire about how to support neurodivergent children and their parents during adolescence.
Children bring their own sort of perspectives and unique ways of learning and recognising both during that learning process, but also their own unique way of how they want to learn. For [parents], it can be just as challenging where they have to adapt…usual ways of parenting to how they can best support their neurodivergent child.
Ms Middleton says routine is a key factor in raising children, regardless of their condition or disability. The CEO suggests setting regular mealtimes and trying to stick to sleep habits can really help.
“Creating predictable daily routines that provide structure and stability…can reduce anxiety.”
They also recommend contacting a local support group, be it in person or online.
“There's lots of online groups that can connect people,” she says.
Ms Rogerson of Autism Awareness Australia says the survey is an important opportunity for caregivers of children and young adults to have their say, share their key concerns, and advocate for the right reforms.
“This is chiefly driven by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) changes that are coming down the pipeline, and the anxiety our community is feeling about being left behind.
The AAA CEO says the organisation with collate the community’s feedback into policy recommendations for the Commonwealth and State Governments to consider.
All responses are anonymous.
The survey remains open until 28 February 2025.