i have a 2.5yr old little boy who had been diagnosed with ASD he is currently non-verbal. His communication skills are very limited and doesn't understand much either. He is also incredibly easy going and easy to please child, who is happy most of the time. his only recent problem is he seems to be extremely sensitive to other peoples emotions, particularly when they are crying or sad. if he see's anyone who looks upset or crying (even on TV) he immediately gets upset and starts crying too. I don't know what I can do to help him, I always try to cheer him up with songs or change the channel if its on TV. But with 5 other children its hard to keep everyone happy all he time and its breaks my heart to see him distressed so frequently. i have been told that many ASD kids lack empathy but my lb seems to be over-sensitive. Has anyone else had a child like this or any solutions to help him cope better? thanks
ASD 2yr old over-sensitive to others emotions.
ASD 2yr old over-sensitive to others emotions.
Posted in:
Behaviour, Baby & Toddler, Kids, Aspergers & Autism
2 Replies
I have a 20 year old with ASD and also work in early intervention. I hate that myth about lacking empathy. Yes some kids do but a lot don't! In fact a lot are over sensitive, especially to more obvious emotions.
Some things you'll find really helpful. Get a behavioural psychologist or look into applied behavioural analysis. They are the best placed to give you long term strategies in all areas. Including doing a functional analysis on things like reacting to emotions and developing a concrete plan.
Also look at a communication system such as PECS (picture exchange communication system). Life although pretty good now can become incredibly frustrating later if a communication method isn't developed. Not all kids with autism develop speech. So a communication system is hugely important plus PECs has been shown to encourage speech.
My son was born at 25 weeks and has a diagnosis of GDD. A recent assessment indicated ASD however no other therapist agrees with this finding. He definitely has some ASD traits (doesn't everyone?) and many sensory issues. Like your child, he can become overly emotional if someone is sad etc. He will cry for a good 15 minutes at their pain. We cuddle him, tell him everyone feels sad sometimes and it's ok to feel that way, but you can be sad and then happy again (not sure if he gets this concept). It's definitely a tough one but you're not alone!