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There is so much in the media about schools failing pupils, especially those with autism and other additional needs and disabilities. It can become all too easy to forget that there are those children and young people who thrive in schools. This isn't to take away from children with significant challenges in accessing education. There is much to be said about the detriment of the wrong education placements on any child's mental health. What can get missed, especially by parents who are new to navigating the world of parenting an autistic child, is that education and school can be good for an autistic child's mental health and well-being.
The consistency of a structured learning environment provides a predictable schedule, which can reduce anxiety and increase a sense of security. When I was a child, I used to find that knowing I had a particular lesson, whether I liked it or not, was easier than trying to plan my time during the school holidays.
The daily challenges and successes experienced in school can contribute to an autistic child's emotional development. With the correct support in place, it can be a fantastic opportunity for autistic children to learn self-regulation and coping strategies, which are essential life skills for us all.
I could look back and say that I didn't have any friends at school, and I found several things to be a real challenge. However, despite not being a part of any social groups or feeling that I fit in, there was a sense of belonging to the school community, which I may not have been aware of at the time, but as an adult, I can reflect on this positively.
It is interesting that the majority of the young people I mentor will have had negative experiences in school. However, most of them say they are pleased they went. Many of them still keep in regular contact with some staff members because they are so grateful for the support they were given.
As parents, we have to make sure that our children are in the correct provision and that the proper support is in place, but it is also essential to not instantly discount schools and education provisions as being bad for the mental health of autistic children and young people.
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