Light and Noise Sensitivity

Light and noise sensitivity are one of the problems parents with an autistic child can face.  Our son was very insistent about always wearing sunglasses with blue lenses.  At first we didn't understand but after a little research, we learned about the sensitivity problems children with PDD (pervasive development disorders) can have.  Two of the most common are with light and sound.  Children born with autism often have inadequate filters for sound and light.  What doesn't bother most people will bother a child with PDD.  As a parent this is something you can watch for and help your child overcome with time.  When your child is young try to limit his/her exposure to excessive noise and bright lights. One activity we didn't think about was fireworks.  For our son, it was one of the most terrifying things he'd been exposed to.  The fireworks made very loud noises when they exploded and the vibrant colors in a dark sky were enough to put him into sensory overload.  Children with PDD need to be exposed to light and sound but make sure to go slowly and remove your child when it becomes too much for him/her.  Gradually with time and patience this sensitivity will get better.  As I've learned, patience is very important.  Look in your area for autistic friendly movies and activities.  Some movie theaters have autistic friendly movies where the sound won't be so loud and they'll leave some lights on while the movie is playing so the colors of the film won't be as vibrant. 

Just Starting

Hello everyone and welcome to my new blog for autism.  I have over 16 years experience with high functioning autism.  When one of our boys was finally diagnosed with autism/aspergers, it became our mission to help other parents whose children who might have autism.  We know from experience, there is nothing worse for a parent than wondering why their child isn't like other children.  Back when our son was diagnosed with high functioning autism, all of this was new to the populace.  Sixteen years ago when you mentioned autism, everyone thought of low functioning autism where a child would rock and never speak.  High functioning autism is much different and people with this can be socially functioning children and adults if they receive help.  I'll be posting various articles about high functioning autism and what we've been through.  I also welcome any questions or tips that others may have especially concerning young adults.