Hyperactive or autistic children often have unlimited energy, they also tend to have trouble listening and following instructions. When they get to school-going age, poor grades and behavioural issues are not uncommon. To the outside world, these children look disobedient and stubborn, but if you dig deeper, you will realise that they are suffering from something that is out of their control.

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It is a sad case when these little souls are cared for by parents and teachers inappropriately, often because they are ignorant or because they have not received a diagnosis on why their children behave this way. It is for this reason that Autism and Hyperactivity need to be brought to parents and teacher’s attention, so that if their children are suffering, they can help them, instead of simply regarding them as naughty.

As caregivers and parents, there are things we can do to make life easier for our children who suffer from these diseases.

Watch your child's food intake
Children in general need to be fed a balanced and healthy diet. Doctors advise that if your child tends to be hyperactive or suffer from autism, it is best to cut dairy, sugar and gluten from their diet. These food sources do not digest well and have the tendency to effect brain functioning negatively, or they make you feel ill and even more hyperactive.

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Instead, give them vegetables that are high in calcium and magnesium. Fruit, nuts and seeds also promote gut health, which helps with a person’s general well-being.

Help the child to listen to others
This goes two ways. Firstly, we need to teach our children to be kind and patient with others, so that when they do meet someone who is different from them, they do not judge, but instead react with friendliness.

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As parents and teachers, we need to facilitate an autistic or hyperactive child’s interaction with others. We can help them to greet new friends and remind them that listening and cooperation is important.

Give attention and affection
Likewise, parents should be patient with hyperactive / autistic children and pay attention to their needs. Spend time with them and be their example. Hyperactivity is often not a disease, but it is due to lack of attention from parents and caregivers. Love them, and appreciate them, with this they will always thrive.

Choose the correct school
Some schools are more equipped to care and educate children who are feistier n nature, or have some development issues. Choose a school where your child will be given the attention he or she needs, with suitably trained educators to assist in helping your child thrive, and not the opposite.

How to educate children with autism
Stick to a daily routine as much as possible.
Choose the right learning method.
Using simple language that is easily understood by the child.
Help the child to write well.
Recognize the talents of children (autistic children often have amazing talents).
Encourage the child to walk out to see the green environment, especially in the morning, physical exercise outdoors does wonders for the brain.
Set the ambience of the room by keeping the lighting dim and the atmosphere calm and safe.

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This post has been edited by a member of the @blue-pencil team

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@syifauna