Welcoming a new baby into the family can be exciting, but for an autistic child, it can also feel confusing, unsettling, or even upsetting. Their world, once predictable and familiar, is about to change in ways that might be hard to understand or explain.
If you’re trying to support your autistic child through this shift, you may be balancing mixed emotions—hope, concern, and a deep wish for both of your children to feel secure.
You might be asking: How do I prepare them? What if they struggle to connect? Will they feel pushed aside?
In some cases, additional support, such as Counselling & Psychotherapy for Children, can help your child express their feelings, build emotional resilience, and adjust at the right pace.
This blog article explores how to support your autistic child with kindness and clarity while laying the foundation for positive sibling interaction.
How Does Change Affect A Child With Autism?
Children with autism often feel more secure when they know what to expect. They may struggle with changes in their environment, such as a new sibling joining the family. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, stress, and confusion.
Additionally, autistic children may have difficulties with social interactions and communication, which can make it challenging to understand and express their feelings about the new sibling.
They may also struggle to share attention and resources with the new baby, leading to jealousy and frustration.
5 Tips for Supporting Your Autistic Child When Welcoming a New Sibling
When preparing for the arrival of a new sibling, there are several strategies you can use to support your autistic child and ease the transition.
Here are some tips to consider:
- Prepare your child in advance: Autistic children often benefit from knowing what to expect. Before the new baby arrives, talk to your child about what will happen and how their routines may change. Use visual aids, such as pictures or books, to help them understand.
- Involve your child in preparations: Allow your child to participate in preparations for the new baby, such as picking out clothes or toys, decorating the nursery, or helping to set up the crib. This can help them feel included and excited about the new addition.
- Maintain routines: Try to stick to your child’s routines as much as possible, even after the new baby arrives. This can help them feel more secure and in control during a change.
- Prepare a safe space for your child: Set up a designated space where they can retreat and feel safe if they become overwhelmed or overstimulated. This could be a quiet room, a cozy corner, or a tent or fort.
- Encourage communication: Encourage your child to express their feelings and concerns about the new baby.
Let them know that it’s okay to feel a range of emotions, and that you are there to listen and support them.
Help Your Autistic Child Adjust to a New Sibling with Professional Support in London
At Harley Row Clinic, we’re experienced in working with children on the autism spectrum. We offer thoughtful, ongoing support for you and your child.
Our ASC Parent Coaching is designed to guide you through these transitions with clarity and compassion.
We also offer Neurodevelopmental Therapy for Children, which blends sound, movement, and nutritional therapy to help nurture your child’s focus, regulation, and learning, especially in educational settings.
You can schedule an appointment with our team to explore what might be most helpful for your child and your home.
Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental healthcare advice. Always consult a qualified mental healthcare provider before starting any new medication or therapy. Harley Row Clinic is not responsible for any injuries or damages resulting from using the information provided in this post.
