For parents: understanding autism
Plain answers for parents and caregivers who are worried about a child’s development, or whose child has just been diagnosed. You are not alone.
What is autism?
Autism (autism spectrum disorder) is a difference in how the brain develops. It affects how a person communicates, relates to other people and experiences the world around them, including sounds, lights and touch.
It is called a spectrum because every autistic person is different. Some children speak fluently and some do not speak at all; some need a little support and some need a lot. Many autistic people also have real strengths, such as an excellent memory, deep focus or a talent for patterns, music or art.
The World Health Organization estimates that about 1 in 127 people worldwide is autistic. Autism is not caused by anything a parent did, and it is not a curse. Research has shown that vaccines do not cause autism.
Autism is different, not less. With the right support, early and with love, autistic children can learn, grow and live with dignity.
Early signs to look out for
Signs often appear in the first two or three years. Your child may:
- Not respond to their name by about 12 months
- Not point at things or show you things they are interested in by about 18 months
- Avoid eye contact or prefer to play alone
- Be late to talk, or lose words they used to say
- Repeat movements such as hand flapping, rocking or spinning
- Get very upset by small changes in routine
- React strongly to sounds, smells, textures or lights
- Line up toys or focus intensely on one interest
These are reasons to talk to a professional, not a diagnosis. Every child develops at their own pace, and only a trained professional can assess your child.
What to do next in Kenya
- Talk to a doctorStart with your child’s doctor or a paediatrician. Tell them what you have noticed and ask about a developmental assessment.
- Get an assessmentEducational Assessment and Resource Centres (EARCs) at county and sub-county level assess children with special needs, and some hospitals have child development clinics.
- Register with NCPWDRegistering your child with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities gives access to government support for persons with disabilities.
- Find the right school and therapiesLook for a school with special needs teachers and therapists who will make a plan for your child. We are happy to talk to you about our school.
- Look after yourselfCaring for a child with autism can be tiring. Lean on family, church and other parents, and ask for help when you need it.
Questions parents often ask
Can children with autism learn?
Yes. Autistic children learn, though often in different ways and at a different pace. With teaching that fits the child, therapy and patience, children make real progress. Our learners have even passed national KILEA assessments.
Will my child learn to speak?
Many children develop speech with therapy and time. Others communicate using pictures, signs or devices. Speech and language therapy helps every child find a way to communicate.
What ages do you take?
We take learners aged 5 to 15 with autism and other learning disabilities, including ADHD, intellectual disability, specific learning difficulties, speech and language delay and multiple disabilities.
Is the school a boarding school?
Yes. Our learners board at the school, with a structured routine and caring staff, and families stay closely involved.
Do you have places available?
Our school is currently full and we have a waiting list. Please contact us early so we can talk about your child and the next available places.
How do I apply?
Read our step-by-step admissions guide, then call or WhatsApp us to make your first enquiry and book a visit.
Can I visit before I decide?
Yes, we encourage it. Call or WhatsApp us on +254 722 662 620 to arrange a visit.
Sources and further reading
- World Health Organization: Autism fact sheet
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Signs and symptoms of autism
- National Council for Persons with Disabilities (Kenya)
This page is general information, not medical advice. Please talk to a qualified professional about your child.
Talk to us about your child
Call or WhatsApp us. We will listen, answer your questions and tell you about our school.