The social isolation of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is well documented. Their dearth of friends outside of the family and their lack of engagement in community activities places extra strains on the family. A project in Northern Ireland provided post-diagnostic support to nearly 100 families and children aged from 3 to 11 years. An experienced ASD practitioner visited the child and family at home fortnightly in the late afternoon into the evening over a 12-month period. Most children had difficulty in relating to other children, coping with change, awareness of dangers, and joining in community activities. Likewise, up to two-thirds of parents identified managing the child’s behaviour, having time to spend with other children, and taking the child out of the house as further issues of concern to them. The project worker implemented a family-centred plan that introduced the child to various community activities in line with their learning targets and wishes. Quantitative and qualitative data showed improvements in the children’s social and communication skills, their personal safety, and participation in community activities. Likewise, the practical and emotional support provided to parents boosted their confidence and reduced stress within the family. The opportunities for parents and siblings to join in fun activities with the child with ASD strengthened their relationships. This project underscores the need for, and the success of family-based, post-diagnostic support to address the social isolation of children with ASD and their families.

中文翻译：

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促进自闭症儿童的社会包容：以家庭为中心的干预。

自闭症谱系障碍（ASD）儿童的社会隔离已有充分文献记载。他们缺乏家人以外的朋友，缺乏参与社区活动的能力，给家庭带来了额外的压力。北爱尔兰的一个项目为近100个3至11岁的家庭和儿童提供了诊断后支持。在12个月的时间里，一位经验丰富的ASD从业人员每隔两周下午从下午到晚上拜访孩子和家人。大多数儿童在与其他儿童交往，应对变化，意识到危险以及参加社区活动方面有困难。同样，多达三分之二的父母认为管理孩子的行为，有时间陪伴其他孩子以及将孩子带出家门是他们关注的其他问题。项目工作人员实施了一项以家庭为中心的计划，根据孩子的学习目标和意愿，将孩子介绍给了各种社区活动。定量和定性数据显示，儿童的社交和沟通能力，人身安全以及参与社区活动的能力得到改善。同样，为父母提供的实践和情感支持提高了他们的自信心，减轻了家庭内部的压力。父母和兄弟姐妹与患有自闭症的孩子一起参加有趣活动的机会加强了他们的关系。该项目强调了基于家庭的诊断后支持对解决ASD儿童及其家庭的社会隔离的需求并取得了成功。