Hearing the word Autism can be scary.. My daughter was not diagnosed until she was 8 and by then we knew something was wrong so her diagnosis was a relief for us. My daughter is a senior in High School this year. The years have been challenging and have flown by but I would offer the following advice to parents of these amazing and wonderful children.
First, learn as much as you can. Read all you can. There is a plethora of books and websites filled with useful information. It is not one size fits all. Figure out what you want to try and see what works fro your child. Talk to other parents and see what works for them. Second, be your child's advocate. Fight for the services they are entitled to receive. Don't be confrontational but ask questions and try to work with them. The more you and the school can work together, the better it will be for your child. Third, don't be embarrassed by your child or their behaviors. You WILL get stares and comments. Seize the opportunity to educate people about Autism. The more we can raise awareness, the better it will be for our children. Don't accept pity for you or your child. Autism is a circumstance of your child's life. It does NOT change who they are or what they will become. Find every opportunity for your child to succeed. Fourth, find time for yourself.. as a family, as a couple and as individuals. That is the SINGLE most important thing you can do. Do something you love JUST FOR YOURSELF. Fifth, LOVE your child.. Celebrate EVERY victory, no matter how big or how small. Finally, Pray. God did not make a mistake when he blessed you with your child. Your child needs you and you need your child. It is all part of the plan. I know I am a much better human being because of my daughter. Finally, you are NOT alone. We are in this together. Lean on each other. Never be afraid to ask for help.
Tampa, FL