What We Do

Sing who was about 4 years old, needed a stroller when going out. This attracted the eyes and gossip of passers-by. Sing’s mother revealed that taking care of Sing was challenging. She hoped that people can better understand about the obstacles and helplessness of the caregivers.

Calmly accepted the diagnosis

Before Sing was diagnosed with autism, she thought that Sing was just an ordinary boy, but a bit active and naughty. She did not pay much attention to Sing’s behaviours. However, Sing’s kindergarten teacher suspected that Sing might have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, so she brought him for a comprehensive assessment and found out that he has autism. “I was well prepared for the diagnosis. Sing’s teachers and social workers gave me a lot of support,” said Sing’s mother.

A long-term battle with Sing

Although she accepted the diagnosis, she always felt stressed and helpless about Sing’s behavioural problems. She shared, “Sing would run around, throw a tantrum by lying down on the ground, yell and even hit people. Other children were afraid of him, so I seldom brought him to the park. I do not know how to handle his behaviours and felt helpless. We even got separated in a market once. Going out with a stroller is much easier to manage.” She recalled that other parents gave Sing unfriendly eyes, “Although I didn’t feel hurt, I hope parents can show understanding and respect because every child has his or her own emotional and behavioural problems.”

Progress in one month

Sing’s language ability and behaviours improved after receiving a month of intensive Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) treatment. Sing’s mother expressed her gratitude, “Sing can now express his needs by saying ‘I want’, can also sit nicely and follow instructions in class. I’m so thankful to the therapists. We are happier and smile more. I hope Sing can continue training at APF.” Apart from the therapy for Sing, our therapists also taught Sing’s mother some training techniques. She said firmly, “I’ll integrate the skills into our daily life to help Sing continue making progress.” We have witnessed the acceptance and patience of Sing’s mother towards Sing and believe that she would accompany Sing to realise his potential.

Sing’s mother was invited to share her perspective on ASD and ABA services with Autism Partnership Foundation (operating in Hong Kong) (APF, HK). Sing is a past beneficiary of APF, HK.