Teachers train autistic teenagers how to bake at Lucheng Charity Center in Wenzhou, Zhejiang province, on May 30. SU QIAOJIANG/FOR CHINA DAILY

For a long time, she felt lonely but was unable to find an outlet to let the negative emotions go.

Two years later, when Bingbing was four, Xiao Yun joined a parent support group for children with special needs in Zhengzhou. She met many parents, mostly mothers, who shared the same experiences as her and became friends with some of them.

Xiao Yun often joined activities organized by the group, such as reading books, making paper crafts or walking in the park. Those were rare, relaxing moments in her life.

After participating in the activities, Xiao Yun felt full of energy, and could again carry on her sometimes difficult life.

She also felt a special connection with other mothers from the group.

"Over the years, when we were under pressure, we would call each other to release the negative feelings. When I speak about my feelings with someone who can understand me, I feel better," she said.

Among all activities, Xiao Yun liked the book reading club the best. She remembered reading a book about nonviolent communication with other mothers. Through it, they learned how to manage their emotions, better communicate with children, and create a good family environment.

The mother found that Bingbing's emotions were closely affected by her mood. "When I am happy, she is happy," she said.

"Although Bingbing cannot communicate in words, she can feel my mood. When I am in a bad mood, Bingbing will be tense. But when I am in a good mood, Bingbing will be happy and relaxed. The change in her mood is obvious," she said.