How Do You Interpret Autism?

First, do you know what Autism really is? If not let me tell you.  It's a neurological and developmental disability. It affects a child socially, emotionally, and expressively. It doesn't mean a child is incapable it means a child needs more time and patience to understand things. Autism is not caused by " bad parenting" and is not contagious!!
There is no physical disability with autism so you can't say " oh yeah that child has autism". Every one has a choice to understand, be aware and accept autism. Just like people have the choice to be ignorant. Children and Adults with Autism are beautiful, intelligent, and soooo lovable!! They deserve just as much as anyone else. Just because they have autism it doesn't make them any less. If you don't learn about autism you will never learn to accept.
If ignorance is your choice then also make it your choice to not bully or make nasty comments about people with autism. You choose to not understand about autism that's ok you have the right to make that choice.

Autism And Siblings...

A sibling sometimes has a difficult time trying to understand autism. Sometimes they find it hard to understand why their sibling has it. They don't know how to interact with their sibling. For a child with a learning disability it's even harder to cope and make sense of it all. As a parent I didn't know how to explain to my son that his sister had autism.
He has a learning disability and ADD so I wasn't sure he would understand autism. I tried to be very clear when I explained it to him. I had to teach him how to interact with his sister and to be verbal with her. I taught my kids sign language so they can communicate with their sister. There has been lots of great moments.
 I love watching my kids play together. I think my son and daughter can relate because they both understand each other now. My son will be able to help guide his sister and I know I will do a great job. The greatest feeling a parent can get is knowing that they are there for each other. Sibling love is AMAZING!!!

My Daughters Behavior:Autism Revealed...

My daughters behavior has become unbearable. She has more meltdowns and tantrums than before. Now that she has started to vocalize she talks back to me. I tell her no it's time for dinner you can watch T.V. later she gets upset and tells me No! She will throw herself on the floor kicking and screaming!
Attending outings is the same. I do not go if I don't have to. It's not about being embarrassed it's very tiring and overwhelming at times. I've learned a way to approach her tantrums and meltdowns. When she has a meltdown I calm her down by telling her it's ok you don't need to cry. Tell Mommy what's wrong.
 When she has a tantrum well that's different because I don't want to influence her behavior so I let her calm down on her own and than explain that if she does what I say she can do what she wants to do. Autism drains you to the point that you have to keep pushing yourself. Autism doesn't have many breaks so why should I? I hope as time goes by it gets a little easier.

Communicating With My Daughter

My daughter has made a significant amount of progress. When I look at where she started to where she is now, it amazes me and gives me such joy! Each day she learns a new word and she has begun to express her needs/wants. She can say a 2-4 word sentence. Yesterday she said "Mom outside play snow". It isnt the correct way but its good enough for me. She is able to express herself and I am able to understand her. She has recieved an extra session of speech therapy outside of school and it has been a great help. I am very happy to see her learn. I have waited so long to hear her sweet little voice and now I can enjoy listening to her. She amazes me everyday and I cant wait to continue to be amazed!

Great News To Start Off The New Year!

   My daughter has been doing great at home and in school. She has become more verbal and is expressing her needs/wants. She has started learning how to write her name and some letters of the alphabets.
    She is being very social in school and is playing and sharing. She has also learned how to use the toilet. I have spoken to her teacher and case manager at school and we are going to do a trial basis for mainstreaming her.      This is such wonderful news!! She has made so much progress from when she started I think this will be a great experience for her. All the hard work has paid off. Hearing this news has started my New Year off right!!

I See The True BeautyOf Autism

   My dear child I watch you as you grow. I see all of your capabilities not your disability. I love watching you learn new things.
   I especially love when you try your hardest to communicate with me. I know it is difficult for you but you are a strong beautiful little girl. I love when you say "I love you Momma". You show me that ALL things are possible, you have to believe in it. Katelyn I do and will always believe in you. You are my little shining star. Keep shining bright!!

Don't Know What To Think Anymore

      I keep seeing stories about possible links to autism. Now I dont know what to beleive. It's always been it could be, but not a definite answer. I have learned on this journey that it doesn't matter to me anymore what the cause for autism is because it will not change who my daughter is. I stopped racking my brain of all the things I did or didnt do during my pregnancy. Think about it... Does it really matter what the cause of autism is? For many parents, it has been a long journey and finding out the cause(s) of autism will not change the fact that our kids live with it already. It will not reverse the diagnosis so what's the point in knowing. I have learned to accept what is and not make excuses or be judgemental. Autism is a life changing experience but so worth it. If I could change anything I would not, because my daughter is my blessing and has filled my life with happiness and joy. So for all the parents who would like answers, I understand but if you are too consumed in finding answers that won't change anything you will miss out on all of the important accomplishments your child will make. Remember enjoy your children now because tomorrow is not promised.