By Destiny Uko
Raising a child with autism in Nigeria is no walk in the park. It demands close attention, immense patience, continued support and the unwavering commitment of caregivers.
For many parents, receiving an autism diagnosis is an emotional blow–one follwoed by confusion, denial or grief. The reality that this is a lifelong developmental condition only deepens the weight of the moment.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by a difference in the brain. Children on the spectrum struggle with speech, expression and interaction. Their behaviours are usually repetitive and monotonous.
Since autism is a condition that is recurrent and cannot be prevented, some well-meaning organisations have stepped up to offer assistance to children on the spectrum and their parents. The Children’s Developmental Centre in Lagos, Blazing Heart Autism Centre in Port Harcourt, and the Patrick Speech and Language Centre are notable examples.
Affording therapy is another stumbling block. Many families do not have the financial means to put their autistic kids in therapy. Some speech therapists charge up to 5,000 naira per hour for sessions.
Only a few public hospitals offer subsidised autism services. This has given rise to the intervention of nonprofits like The Autism Awareness Foundation and My Beautiful Mind
These organisations are among child-centred nonprofits, stretching a helping hand in the direction of children with the spectrum. They offer therapy for little or no fee and also train parents on how best to cater to the children at home.
Not every teacher is trained and equipped to handle and care for autistic children. They usually require additional attention, guidance and support, and not every teacher is patient enough for these or even trained to carry them along. This has propelled parents to consider specialised schools. One of them is the Benola Cerebral Palsy Initiative.
Children on the spectrum do not respond to corrections and discipline like other children; hence, parents must develop alternative and creative ways to go about it. Since they are repetitive in nature, they cope better with routines.
Unexpected turns of events may seem strange and disorienting to them. Therefore, parents and guidance must place them on a routine that they can keep to daily.
Training and support for parents is just as vital as the therapy for the children. Parents are the first and most central educators in a child’s life. Platforms like Autism Parents Association International offer training to parents of children on the spectrum.
Beyond the family unit, society also has a big role to play in providing a safe place for autistic children and adults. Children with autism deserve visibility, community participation, and celebration—just like everyone else.
Notable events like World Autism Awareness Day , celebrated on April 2nd, should be marked with genuine enthusiasm, lots of love and special attention to affected persons.
Parents, guardians and teachers must embrace patience wholeheartedly, especially when communicating with the children. They may be slow and express themselves through gestures, pictures and body language. When they communicate by words, you may have to listen with apt attention to decode what is being said.
Always acknowledge and celebrate any achievement attained or progress made. It could be making proper eye contact, having a proper conversation, writing an assignment successfully, scoring 10/10 in a test, etc. This will boost their confidence and make them feel normal, seen and truly cherished.
Children with autism are not broken or less human—they are simply wired differently. With early intervention, empathetic parenting, inclusive education, and a supportive society, children on the spectrum can thrive, pursue their dreams, and live meaningful lives.
Raising a child with autism in Nigeria is challenging and requires significant dedication from caregivers. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental condition where children face difficulties in speech, expression, and interaction, often exhibiting repetitive behaviors. Receiving an ASD diagnosis can be difficult for families, compounded by limited resources and financial constraints for therapy. Organizations like the Children's Developmental Centre and the Autism Awareness Foundation help by offering affordable therapy and parent training.
Access to trained teachers and specialized schools is limited, pushing parents towards institutions like the Benola Cerebral Palsy Initiative. Establishing routines and creative communication methods are crucial for autistic children, who often struggle with unexpected changes. Training for parents is vital as they play a key educational role, supported by platforms like Autism Parents Association International. Society's role is crucial in ensuring autistic children receive fair visibility and participation, underscored by events like World Autism Awareness Day.
Patience, attention, and celebration of their achievements aid in boosting their confidence, showing that while children with autism are different, they are not lesser. Early intervention, empathetic parenting, inclusive education, and societal support can enable children with autism to thrive and lead fulfilling lives.
