My son is of 19 years old, is mildly autistic, has a bit slow comprehension of instructions given to him. lives in his own world , and left schooling due to bad academic grasp. very docile in nature. Can u advise on any life grooming path/procedure for him...

Ans: It sounds like your son may be struggling with some social and emotional challenges related to his hearing and speech problem, and it's understandable that this could impact his ability to communicate and socialize with others. As a psychologist, I would recommend the following suggestions to help counsel your son:

Validate his feelings: Let your son know that you understand that it can be difficult for him to navigate social situations with his hearing and speech challenges. Validate his feelings and reassure him that he is not alone in feeling this way.

Encourage social interaction: While your son may be comfortable at home, it's important to encourage him to interact with others outside of the home as well. This could be through community events, volunteering, or joining social groups for individuals with similar challenges. Gradually exposing him to new situations can help him build confidence and develop new skills.

Focus on strengths and interests: Encourage your son to pursue his interests and strengths, whether it's in academics, music, or any other area. This can help him develop a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Explore therapy options: Counseling or therapy can be an effective way for your son to work through his challenges and develop coping strategies. Consider exploring therapy options, such as speech therapy, social skills training, or cognitive-behavioral therapy, which can be tailored to meet his specific needs.

Use positive reinforcement: When your son makes progress, offer positive reinforcement and encouragement. Celebrate his accomplishments, even if they are small, to help build his confidence and motivation.

Remember, counseling and support is a process that takes time, patience, and persistence. Be sure to approach your son with empathy and understanding, and work together to develop a plan that supports his well-being and personal growth.

Ans: A school working with students will work at the pace of your child adapting and always keeping in mind his needs. All children miss their parents and that’s fine. Sending him communication by emails, telephones, audible messages are options in between your visits to keep in touch with your son. Skills are built over months, you could contact the school for his IEP and skill development plans. You can always give your inputs and trust the educators who are professionals to do best for your child.

Ans: I understand your concerns about your son's education and future, and I want to reassure you that enrolling him in a special school is a positive step. Although long term it must be inclusive education. It’s great that he is receiving the tailored support he needs. To further support his development, continue with a multi-disciplinary approach by working with physiotherapists, rehabilitation psychologists, and other specialists who can address both his physical and mental needs. Utilizing all available resources at his special school, including individualized education plans (IEPs) and therapies, will also be beneficial.

Additionally, obtaining a disability certificate can provide access to extra resources and support. Consider exploring National Trust schemes that may offer additional assistance and benefits. Joining a parent support group can also be incredibly valuable, providing you with emotional support and practical advice from others who are in similar situations.

Your dedication and patience are crucial, and every small achievement is a step forward. With continued support and the right resources, he can make significant progress. Don’t hesitate to reach out to his educators and therapists for personalized advice and assistance.

Wishing you and your son all the best.

Ans: Dear Parent , I could feel pain from your message . There are many such c ases where children are addicted to Mobile for games or watching videos of no use. In fact scientists compare mobile addiction with Opium like addiction where users stay on mobile for as long as 15-20 hrs a day. Why don't you ask him for getting into development of Mobile apps by learning coding ..? Or even ethical Hacking if you are sure he is not getting not wrong direction. Or in worst case , get him into some businesses like Selling Mobile and its accessaries. He needs to use his negative qualities into positive strengths through soft counselling only.

Ans: Hrishikesh Sir,

Apologize for the late reply.

Congratulations to your son for finishing his CBSE with success despite having autism. Also good to hear that your son has started doing computer studies in Excel data. He CAN and will be successful in his career and life.

First of all, which course/nature of work will be more suitable for your son depends upon:

(1) His Visual Thinking Power. If he has good visual thinking power, some of the jobs (illustrative examples) that will be more suitable for him are Computer Programming, Engineering Drawing/Computer Aided Drawing, Commercial Art, Lab Technician, Video Game Designer, etc.

(2) Non-Visual Thinking Power: Statistician, Clerical Works, Inventory Control, Electrical-Electronic-Chemical Engineering, Library Science, Copy Editor, Any specialized field in Accounting, etc.

(3) Non-verbal: Data Entry Jobs etc.

The above will help you to choose the right course for your son.

Next Step: MOST IMPORTANT: The best source to know about the Employment Opportunities in Govt. Departments for your son is, approaching the LOCAL EMPLOYMENT EXCHANGE which can / SHOULD provide you a detailed information/data for autistic children under the RIGHTS OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES ACT, 2016.

And Just for your information Sir, I have reproduced an article from the ECONOMIC TIMES Newspaper.

The enactment of Right of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, had increased reservation in government jobs and educational institutions for disabled from 3 to 4% and the number of benchmark disabilities from 7 to 21. An expert committee under the DEPwD secretary was formed to review the government posts which could be opened up for the new categories of differently-abled. The expert committee finalized its report in November 2019 (Source: Economic Times).

All the BEST to your Son for his Bright Future, sir.

Convey my regards to your beloved Son.

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