Receiving a diagnosis of any kind is difficult for parents, and an autism diagnosis can be particularly frightening. The uncertainty about how to best support your child, and the confusion that can follow conflicting treatment advice, can be very unsettling. Hearing that autism is an incurable and lifelong condition tends to only add to the […]
Parents and the Autism Diagnosis: How to Accept Your Autistic Child Read More »
Every parent thinks negatively from time to time, but the negative and often fear-filled thoughts parents of autistic children struggle with can be off the charts because they are so different from the typical worries of other parents. Conquering these negative thoughts is not easy, but very important for the sake of your happiness as
Conquering Negative Thoughts When Parenting Autistic Children Read More »
Many children with autism develop special interests and become so entranced with them that they spend much of their time talking about them with great enthusiasm. Initially, it can be astounding to hear an autistic individual share their knowledge and expertise on topics such as dinosaurs, bus routes, video games, insects, and the list goes
How to Help a Talkative Autistic Child to Talk Less and Listen More Read More »
AUTISM AWARENESS AND ACCEPTANCE TO PREVENT BULLYING There has been a lot of talk about Autism Awareness and Acceptance through the years, and while we still have a ways to go, much has improved since my grandson was first diagnosed with autism in 2009. At that time, I knew next to nothing about autism, and
10 Things a Grandmother of a Child with Autism Would Like Other Children to Know Read More »
The benefits of setting clear boundaries for children on the autism spectrum All children need rules and boundaries to help them know how to act appropriately in different settings and situations, and children with autism are no exception. Rules and boundaries will teach them skills they will need to be successful in life. But how
Taking the Sting out of Discipline for Kids with Autism Read More »
It is estimated that 80% of children with autism also have sensory issues, if not Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), as a comorbid condition. However, many parents, caregivers, and educators are not aware of the struggles this can pose for children on the spectrum. My attention was drawn to this again recently after a special education
How to Help ASD Students Who Have SENSORY Processing Disorder Read More »
Grandparents can have a unique role in the lives of their grandchild with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). They can be a source of support, guidance, connection, encouragement, and love. According to Autism Speaks, “about 30% of grandparents were the first to notice that there was a problem with their grandchild’s development. Nearly 90% felt that the experience
How Grandparents Can Support Their Autistic Grandchild Read More »
As a grandparent and full-time caregiver of a teenager on the autism spectrum, setting personal goals for the New Year isn’t something at the top of my to-do list anymore. In years past, I used to make resolutions that focused on self-improvement, such as losing weight or getting back in shape, finishing projects, etc. While
Setting Meaningful and Achievable New Year’s Goals for Autism Parents and Caregivers Read More »
The Importance of Self-Care for Parents and Caregivers of Children with Autism For parents and caregivers, and especially when caring for a child with autism, it can be very difficult to find time for self-care. The demands and needs are many, and in our desire to provide our children with the best care possible, we
Cut Yourself Some Slack: Parenting and Autism Read More »
Without a doubt, raising an autistic child can be extremely stressful and challenging. Learning to embrace a more optimistic mindset and focusing on the strengths and abilities of your autistic child, while also pursuing helpful new information and tools and practicing self-care, can make an enormous difference for your own and your child’s health and
The Power of Optimism When Raising a Child on the Autism Spectrum Read More »
