Friday, November 29, 2013

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!!

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

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.

Friday, November 1, 2013

Everything Will Be Great

    As many of you know Autism affects every part of your life. It brings great moments and bad moments. Everyday is like being on a rollercoaster ride, but as scared as we all are, we hold on tight and try our best to get through the ride. I look at my life and see nothing but beauty. I have been blessed with the life I have and wouldn't change it for anything. I do not and will not let Autism take away my happiness.
   My daughter is my blessing from god and she has shown her beauty. Autism doesnt change who your child is or will be, its the foundation of something amazing.  The journey gets bumpy along the way but what lies ahead is so much more greater. When we see all of the milestones our kids reach it puts in perspective that our children are more than a diagnosis.
  It took time for my daughter to get where she is now and thats okay because I have had great memories that I can cherish forever. I am happy that she is making progress even if it takes a long time. Any progress is better than no progress. Stay strong and never lose hope!!

Thursday, October 24, 2013

Knowing The Signs Of Autism

   As a parent of three children I always looked forward to seeing when they first crawled, when they stood up on their own, their first step, their first word. These are basic signs every parent should suspect as their child grows. But what happens when the child doesn't exhibit these accomplishments or stops making progress. Well then as a parent that's where some common sense comes in and you are now alerted that something is going on. Don't ignore your suspicions. Knowing the signs of Autism or any disability comes from the parents concerns first. We know our children best. We have to act quickly when we feel something is not right. Its the only way to receive the best diagnoses and services. As much as it overwhelms you and makes you cry to think or know that something can be wrong you have to stay positive and stay strong. Its only a diagnosis and does not change who your child is. Here are some signs of Autism to look for:
  • Poor eye contact
  •  Repetitive behaviors ( lining items in a row, watches shows repeatedly, hand flapping)
  •  Loss of speech
  •  Walking on tip toes
  •  Poor social skills
  •  Plays by themselves and plays with a particular part of toy ( like wheels on a car)
  •  Struggles to express feelings
  • Doesn't exhibit understanding of ones directions
It is very difficult to see your child struggle in many areas but by not being aware of what's going on is even more difficult. As parents you will hurt, cry, and have so many questions. Take the first step in understanding the signs and then keep moving forward to help your child achieve their full potential. You are never alone on your journey. There are many parents who are on the same journey. You just have to walk alongside your child and they will guide you down the path and show you the way. Never lose HOPE!!

Thursday, October 10, 2013

My Son's Opportunity

            I know it has been a while since I blogged about my son. So I will write one for him. I have seen many changes with my son since he has started school. His academic performance is rising. He shows his capabilities in his assignments. He is willing to try even if he is unsure ( that is a big step for him and me!!). His social skills are remarkable as well his self esteem. He has many more interests in hobbies and sports I cant keep up with it. He always wants to sign up for something new. So he told me he wanted to sign up for flag football. When the roster came out his name was not on it. He was very upset about it and I told him to speak with the coach and ask him why didn't you make the team. I knew why my son didn't make the team ( the coach saw that he didn't know the rules and how to play).  Which in my opinion is totally wrong! Every child should be given an equal opportunity. My son went to school the next day and asked the coach why didn't he make the team. The coach only responded with " Tell your mother to write me a note stating that you can play flag football". ( I think the coach knew he was wrong). I had tears of joy when I heard he was on the team. The news just made my our day! I was very happy and grateful to the coach for allowing my son an opportunity to participate in the sport. No matter what disability a child might have they should be given opportunities like everyone else. Equal treatment goes for everyone. There should be no such thing as discrimination against our special needs children!! They are human too.

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

A Great Start To A New School Year

          This school year has started off great so far. I have met with my son's teachers at a grade level meeting to discuss his needs and to introduce my Intervention Plan I made for him. He has been doing very well with his classwork and has not needed any assistance from his teachers. He has passed his NJASK  math section this year with a score a lot higher than last year. I am so proud of my son!!!!!! I knew he could achieve his goals, I am just glad I was able to guide him in the right direction. He has shown so much confidence in his ability to do the classwork it melts my heart to see how happy he gets. My 3 yr. old daughter has also made some HUGE HUGE improvements with her education this year. She has learned some new words like "bread", "book", "pull- up", "car", "pink", "purple", "me", "Katelyn", "Three", "Mom" this time she refers to me!!! And this one it's sooooo cute... "cheesecake"!!!!! She has learned to say some sentences too like " My name is Katelyn" and " I am three years old". " Are you proud of me?"  She has even learned to read the words "milk" and "eggs" from a book!!  She makes me proud everyday. I love to see improvements even if it doesn't happen for long time. I am very proud of all of my children's progress this year!! My hard work and dedication has paid off. But it doesn't mean I can just stop and lay back, no it means I have to continue teaching, advocating and fighting for my children to receive ALL the help they can get. Looking forward to the rest of this school year!!!

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Don't Know What Autism is?

         This is my daughter and she has Autism. You ask but how could that be? There are no physical disabilities. Well because Autism is a developmental disability not a physical disability. Autism affects the learning, social and emotional process. She is a very normal, happy little girl. She has abilities that shine through everyday. She can become social and emotional and learn.
       She has to be taught how to learn new things and shown to become social and emotional. All of this is present she just has a hard time showing it because she doesn't know how. Its not that she cant. So when you hear Autism please don't think "oh my god, poor child". There is nothing wrong with my child because her abilities are stronger than her disability. If she wanted to become a doctor, nurse, lawyer, judge guess what, she can. You might think she cant, how?
        If you do not live with autism you will never understand. Even if you learn about autism you will still not understand. You see, what my daughter shows me is unexplainable. She is unique in her own way and she makes me proud. The reason she is able to strive and show her potential is because she has a family who supports and knows she can achieve what she sets her mind to. That is what Autism is.

Saturday, August 3, 2013

Can You Tell The Difference?

      With the recent J Cole and Drake comments about autism it had me thinking, we have a serious issue going on here. Its not okay for people to degrade our children and use autism in a negative way. So, here is a scenario for you.... Its a beautiful sunny day and you are at an outing with your family or friends. You see parents with their children. As you are trying to enjoy your day you see the children are upset and crying, running around, stomping their feet and maybe even throwing themselves on the floor. The parents are doing their best to calm their children down, but its not working. As all people do they stare with a confused face and make a comment like " if that were my child I would have better control over them and they would not act like that". Am I right? Probably, everyone who doesn't deal with autism will have a rude comment like that. My point is, don't be so quick to judge because that child that is crying, running around and stomping their feet, that is my child and she has autism and you wouldn't know. There is no deformality. Especially if you don't know autism and what to look for. My child does that, all children with autism do that. Even neurotypical children do that. They are human and they have feelings so if you are quick to judge then you are just ignorant. Learn the signs of autism and educate yourself about it because stares and rude comments really hurt our feelings. Our children are just children, looking to have fun and find their place in this world and we cant do that if there is hate towards them, because autism doesn't define who they are. I hope this helps you to understand and sheds light on this issue.

Thursday, August 1, 2013

My Summer With Autism

            So far my summer has been great. I have had family time and had a blast. We have gone to the park, swimming and a water park. My daughter has been attending summer school. She has shown so much improvement and is starting to be a little vocal. I have been working with her and teaching her how to say sounds and two to three letter words. She is so interested in imitating it comes naturally for her. This is the moment I have been waiting for. Now she still can't hold a conversation with anyone but can say some words. I have taught her how to say her name and age. She is such a fast learner, she learned it in a matter of a couple days. It is one baby step at a time but there is progress. By going to the park it has increased her interest in becoming social. Teaching her how to swim has gave her that confidence that she needs to know that she can do it. Everyday its something new and when your dealing with autism you have to be patient and have hope because my daughter is capable of accomplishing anything. All of these accomplishments may seem small to other people but to me it means the world. Its like when a mothers first born begins to talk, crawl, and walk. Well for me, and every autism parent no matter their childs age a small accomplishment is a big one. We still have a long journey ahead of us, and so much more to teach and learn, but looking back at the beginning of our journey until now she has come a long way and I am very PROUD of her and myself. It has been tough but we push through everyday and never give up. I hope she sticks to that as she gets older because there will be obstacles and struggles but in order to succeed you cant give up!!

Monday, July 8, 2013

My Emotions

    These past couple of months have been pretty tough,
    AUTISM comes with a lot of stuff,
    I have been overcome with so many emotions,
    It hits me like the big waves that come from the ocean,
    There is a constant reminder that it will be okay,
    But reality is AUTISM is here to stay,
    I see her accomplishments big or small,
    Like when she is playing with a ball,
    The littlest moments are always the best,
    Everyday she is put to the test,
    I sit and watch a brave little girl,
    It brings tears to my eyes as she twirls,
    Not a care or worry that runs through her mind,
    Because her day will come for her to find,
    What she is meant to do with her life,
    I hope one day she will be someone's wife,
   There are times that I have doubts about my parenting,
    It feels like my life is just staggering,
    I do my best and always try,
    Because I want her to strive,
    She is full of potential and will succeed,
    I want her to live her life and be as free as can be,
    This world will always judge you,
    Just keep your head high because you belong too,
    I want her future to shine and be bright,
    Living with AUTISM has shown me the light,
    To my journey and my path,
    It will be bumpy and we might crash,
    I know one thing is for sure,
    My daughter has AUTISM and I don't want a cure,
    I love her for who she is loving, kind and sweet,
    She makes my heart skip a beat,
    I love you my dear child forever and always,
    Remember my love will never go astray.

   Mommy loves you always!! I'm very proud to say you are my shining star!!

  
   

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Sibling Acceptance

        Since my daughters diagnosis a little over a year ago I have seen so many changes. The way she learns and the way she interacts with others, especially with her two older siblings. In the beginning it was difficult for her to play because she didn't know how to and they didn't know how to play with her. So I explained to my older children how they can learn to understand her and how they can teach her to understand them. Since then, they have made such a strong bond.
        I see the smiles on their faces when they are together. Seeing my older children play with their baby sister is such a great feeling. They understand what she faces everyday and are always teaching her new things. They are her protectors and biggest supporters. The love they have for each other is amazing. Watching them hug each other makes my heart flutter. I am the happiest mother ever.
        I am glad that they can accept autism as part of our family and also accept their sister for who she is. When they look at their little sister all they see is a beautiful, smart little girl and I'm happy to say that ALL OF MY CHILDREN ARE AMAZING and it makes me proud as a mom!!!!

Friday, June 7, 2013

Summer Safety Tips

Summer is approaching and the kids are going to want to do a lot of stuff to keep busy. There are many activities that will keep the kids busy. There are arts and crafts activities. Going to the library to enhance their reading skills. You can go to a pool, there is a fun filled day of staying cool. For many parents of a child with autism these activities can become our worse nightmare. Especially taking our kids swimming. Many kids with autism love water. They love it so much that we have to keep a very close eye so they dont wonder off. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and fun summer.
1. If you have a child who wanders check out www.projectlifesaver.com and call your local police department for more information and apply. It can save your childs life. Its a GPS device that can locate your child if they wander off. It may be free to you through your local police department.
2.Always make sure you have everything you need to go swimming before you leave the house.
3. Put a life jacket on your child even if you are at a lake or beach and they are only going to sit right on the sand at the water. Kids are quick and can run into the open water with a blink of an eye.
4. Always accompany your child in the water and keep a very close eye on them.
5. Never leave your child alone in the water not even with a sibling. Kids don't listen to their siblings. ( I know I didn't).
6. Take your child out of the water with you if you need to use the restroom or for whatever reason you need to leave the water.
7. Keep your child entertained. Bring a ball, shovel and bucket, coloring book and crayons. Or whatever you think will keep them entertained in case of a meltdown.
8. Explain to your other children how they can help out and make it comfortable and fun for their sibling. ( if they are old enough to understand).
9. Have a great lunch together. Enjoy and laugh together.
10. Have a fun, relaxing, memorable day with your family. Some days may not be perfect and go as planned but there is always tomorrow!!

Monday, May 20, 2013

I Just Have To Say.....

      There have been heartbreaking tragedies that have happened recently of young autistic children wondering off and gone missing and were unfortunately found deceased. My heart breaks and my prayers are with all of the families who have lost their child. I could never imagine the pain they have had to endure. Yet there are comments being aimed at these parents and fingers being pointed and blame of "bad parenting"???  Are you kidding me??????? We as parents of autistic children face difficulties everyday. Our children are different and our approach has to fit their needs. We are not "bad parents" because our children have a meltdown and we can't control it. Who has the right to criticize any parent about the way we raise our children??? I love my children and will always be the greatest parent I can be. Just like every other parent would do the same. Our children are never mistreated. There are other children out there who have bad parents that  mistreat them and yet these parents who lost their child because they wandered off get told they are "bad parents"? Before placing judgement on anyone learn what our lives are like for us parents and what struggles we face everyday. Its not an easy job as a parent, especially an autistic child. Let these families grieve in peace and don't be judemental about something you will never understand.

Thursday, April 18, 2013

What Autism Has Taught Me

     I would always look at my life and complain about the little things. I would always think my life wasn't what it was suppose to be. Now that I have grown up and became a mom I see my life as it was shaped to be. I thought I had a rough life until I had my children. I had my first born and he was diagnosed with ADD/LD and my last born diagnosed with Autism. Watching my children learn and grow, always with a smile on their face and not a worry in the world.
     That's when I realized my life wasn't so bad after all. I see the struggles they face everyday and yet they are always happy and smiling. They have taught me to enjoy life and never take anything for granted. Life can be complicated but it shouldn't bring you down. There are obstacles but we all can overcome them. There are many people who face difficulties in their life but my children go through a lot and they never let it bring them down. I realized they live their life with joy. I have learned to see the world through their eyes and its wonderful. My kids don't complain about anything and that's how we all should be. We need to just enjoy life and embrace what is already in front us and let go of the past. This is a new beginning for my family and our future looks bright.

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

10 Misconceptions About Autism

          As a parent of a child with autism we face difficulties everyday. We make the best out of every moment and everyday. We do our best but need autism awareness and acceptance. In order to ensure acceptance we need understanding about autism. Here are 10 misconceptions people think about autism.
1. Children will outgrow the diagnosis of Autism.
2. Parents of a child with autism have "bad parenting" skills.
3. All children with Autism are the same.
4. A childs behavior is controllable.
5. Children with autism can learn like all other non disabled children.
6. There is nothing wrong with the child, they just need to be disciplined.
7. Parents of children with autism want sympathy.
8. God wouldn't give you a child with autism if he knew you couldn't handle it.
9. We need to teach our kids how to play well with other kids.
10. We need to teach our kids to share with other kids.

Here are 10 conceptions from an autism parent about other parents.

1. Why don't you ask me questions about my childs behavior? ( you will learn valuable information).
2. Why does your child misbehave?
3. Why don't you discipline your child better?
4. How do you feel when people stare at your child misbehaving?
5. Why is your child mean to other children?
6. Why can't you control your child?
7. Why do parents assume our children are misbehaving and when your child is misbehaving its ok?
8. What can autism parents do to get more awareness and understanding?
9. Why cant my child with autism play with your child who doesn't have autism?
10. Why do parents have to be so mean towards autism parents?

 You see when you assume you don't get the whole picture. In order to understand and accept children with autism you have to be open about the situation and ask questions. A child shouldn't be labeled as a "bad child" because you don't know the situation. Less criticism and more Awareness, Acceptance and Understanding.

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Raising Autism Awareness: Struggles And Accomplishments

     In order to raise Autism Awareness I need to help people understand the everyday difficulties as well as the greatest accomplishments. When people hear Autism they immediately think its a bad thing. They always make nonsense comments like" Oh but they don't look like they have autism." Or they say "he/she will out grow it." So with that always being said I thought  the right thing to do was to write a blog about what it is like to raise an autistic child so people can see its not a life sentence and that every child deserves understanding and acceptance.
      When my daughter started Early Intervention at 27 months she was so behind her age level it was going to take a lot of intervention. She didn't know how to point, she was nonverbal and didn't understand any verbal commands. Its very difficult on a parent when they want their child to learn but they struggle. Most autistic kids cant do the same things like every other kid. There are sensory issues for a child with autism so that means most kids cant go places where there are loud noises or flashing lights. A day out for an autistic child is not just grab the coat and go. It has to be planned and we have to make sure we have snacks, and toys that comfort them to try to prevent a meltdown.
     There are days of happiness, and joy. For us autistic parents the littlest accomplishments are ALWAYS the biggest accomplishments. We all are thrilled to see our kids progress and its the greatest feeling in the world. When we see our child point to something they want we are overwhelmed with happiness. When we see our child trying to be social with other kids we are  overwhelmed with happiness. Our children are different yes, but never less. Our children can learn and will be a success it just might take them a little longer to understand.
  So this blog is to let people know that an autistic child or any child with a disability are special, intelligent, beautiful, unique, awesome and most of all loving. In order to understand, questions have to be asked instead of assuming. I'm sure I am not the only parent who wouldn't be happy to have someone ask me questions about autism. The more questions and understanding of autism will help us raise awareness.

Thursday, March 21, 2013

My Thoughts On The New Study: 1 In 50

     I am happy the media has shed light on autism. The study is great news to hear because now doctors will dx children even with milder symptoms. There still are many questions that need answers. Does this mean that families with an autistic child will get more resources and services? Will there be a study on what causes autism?  Will there be a study to find out the simililarities and differences each family has?
     I mean come on, if the rate keeps rising I would beleive it is not genetic. A persons genes do not change that fast. How about doing a study on the lowest rates in a particular area and find out what their lifestyle is and compare it to the lifestyle of families who live in a high rate area? How about looking at what all families have in common?
    Meaning we all get our children vaccinated. The vaccines change over time, the vaccines we received when we were younger are not the same dosage our children get. Our second, third etc. born didnt receive the same vaccines as our first born. What about hormones in the food? We need food to survive. If we are not vegetarians we buy foods that have hormones in them. A study should be done on families that grow their own food with no hormones and see what the autism rate is if any, and compare.
     How about the enviroment maybe an area with high pollution is the cause? Do a study on that and see what the results are. Something is happening and in my opinion I dont think its genetic. How will it be explained if the rate continues to grow at a rapid pace? The studies like these need to be done in order to rule out what its not.
     So lets try ruling out what its not and maybe we can find out what is. I dont want a cure for my daughters autism she is perfect the way she is, but it would be nice to know what causes autism and finally have some answers. If we know what causes autism maybe it could be prevented for future families. These are the questions that will stay in my head for a long time before I can have some releif. I'm sure we are all on the same page and want to know why this is happening. Hopefully there will be a breakthrough on studies and we will soon get anwers. Stay strong and remember have HOPE, you are not alone.

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Keep Fighting And Never Lose Hope

       When my son was born in 2001 I was the happiest person. He lit up my world. I loved holding him in my arms and kissing him on the forehead. He was my bundle of joy. As the years passed I would see him progress a little but not where he needed to be at age 3. As he started talking he had slurred speech.He wasn't learning the basics, he struggled.
       I knew that something was wrong. I was very concerned so I discussed it with the pediatrician. I was told that my son was fine and because he is a boy it will take him longer to talk like a 3 yr. old should.Well I didn't like the answer the Dr. gave me so I switched pediatricians. I picked a pediatrician that was in another city. I had to travel 30 minutes to get there but it was so worth it. ( I still have the same pediatrician).
     When I discussed my concerns with the new pediatrician he right away reffered me to a specialist. Even the specialist was on board that there was something wrong and my son needed services. What I am trying to point out is if you have concerns about your child bring it to the Dr.'s attention.
      If the Dr. says there is nothing wrong with your child but YOU have concerns, go for a second opinion or find another Dr. that will listen to you. As parents we know our children best. Sometimes you have to disagree with the Dr. if you feel different about something. If I continued with the previous Dr. my son would have missed out on services to help him better his education.
    My son is 11 yrs. old and in 6th grade. His speech is clear due to intense speech therapy. His grades have improved.  He was diagnosed and was able to recieve the services to fit his needs. My son is finally on the right track to success. Thanks to my perserverence and determination and the Dr.'s willingness to provide us with the best care I never lost HOPE. Do what you think is best for your child, fight the fight and never lose Faith and Hope.

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

My Sons Progress

         As you know my son has ADD/LD. He has been on medicine since his diagnosis in August 2012. His grades have improved dramatically and he even received an honarable mention in school.
        I have slowly taken him off the medicine and he has been able to do the school work all by himself. He still receives great grades in school. He has shown his full potential to me and his teachers. I am very proud of him.
      You see, thats the great thing about giving medicine to your ADHD/ADD child, it can be stopped at any time with no side affects. Medicine is only part of your childs ability to learn, the rest is up to the child.
     The childs self esteem goes up and its boosts their abilities to focus and maintain great grades. I love seeing my son smile when he gets a great test grade. He puts a smile on my face everyday. I am very proud of him. I never doubted his abilities. People need to see the abilities in the child regardless of their disability. I just want parents to know that there is hope for all children with disabilities. It might take some time but the progress will show.

Monday, January 28, 2013

Hopeful Words To Encourage

You do not understand my situation
So don't look at me like I'm different
You look at stare with a puzzled face
As if I dont belong, and its not my place
Do not judge a book by it's cover
You should understand, especially if your a mother
Of a child who needs special care
People always assume and it's not FAIR
I am one of god's gifts just like you
So lets come together and start brand new.

A Poem for Children With Disabilities

No matter what your disability may be
Always remember we all see
How special you are
There are many others who come from afar
You are not alone we are here
There is nothing you have to fear
Your dreams await for you to chase
You will make this world a better place.

My Heartfelt Words

My little girl who shines so bright
You are the center of my life
God has given you to me
For the whole world to see
I am here for you through thick and thin
AUTISM is a battle we will win
No matter what comes our way
I will always be here, I'm here to stay
I know things are not so clear
But there is nothing you have to fear
I will be your voice
I know that this was not by choice
I see just who you are
My little shining star
You know that "I Love You"
I'm glad you love me too!!

A Poem For My Little Girl

You do not compare to the rest
In my eyes you are the best
Its not a bad thing you soon will see
This world might be big, but its just you and me
You are my gift sent from above
For you I give all my love
Everyday is a blessing
Even though I'm always stressing
I think to myself what else can I do?
And the answer is, just to love you
I am happy to say you are mine
I know in time things will be fine
I will be with you side by side
I am here for you, I am your guide
I thank god for answering my prayers
He gave me a child that I can share
My love for you is beyond great
I'm very pleased that THIS is my fate
I get to spend everyday with you
My dear Katelyn, " I Love you too".

Words Of HOPE

  My little girl is very UNIQUE
  She has AUTISM and does not speak
  She has a lot of things to say
  She shows me in her own special way
  I wish to hear "I Love You"
  Maybe not right now, someday it will come true
  You do not see her through my eyes
  Everyday I cry
  To see her struggle and try
  It takes her a bit longer to get it right
  But this is something we will FIGHT
 We will not stop until the end
  I am always here because you are my godsend
  I will take care of you everyday
 And show 'I Love You' in everyway.

Thursday, January 3, 2013

10 Tips For Venturing Out With Your Autistic Child

    Parenting is a lot of work. Going out with your child can be difficult. Here are some tips to consider when venturing out.
  • Bring toys your child likes.
  • Prepare a plan in case of a meltdown.
  • Bring juice and snacks they like.
  • Keep your child entertained while out.
  • Redirect any bad behavior into something fun.
  • Limit activities. You dont want your child to be overtired.
  • Allow breaks and alone time when needed.
  • Be clear when giving directions.
  • Use time out if needed.
  • Make sure your child is comfortable.
I wish the best of luck as you go on your ventures with your children. Stay postive and have fun!

How Early Intervention Has Helped My Daughter

     My daughter has been diagnosed with classic Autism for almost a year now. My daughter was not on the appropiate age level and was behind in a lot of areas. We started Early Intervention right away. Within a few months of EI my daughter showed so much progress.
     Her cognitive and receptive were on the right age level. I was amazed at how EI helped my daughter. I can now ask my daughter to do things and she understands. I can play with her and see she is really happy. She is able to point to things she wants and uses sign language to communicate with me.
  Early Intervention has given me more then peace of mind, it has given me HOPE. Everyday my daughter makes progress, there is HOPE. For every mile stone, there is HOPE. Early Intervention has left a great impact on my life. When you see progress it fills you up with joy. I am forever grateful for the HOPE Early Intervention has given me.

Wednesday, January 2, 2013

Understanding & Acceptance

         We need to move forward when it comes to Autism. People need to be understanding and accept what Autism is. My heart breaks when I get stares and hear whispers. Until people understand then they can have their comments. There are so many misinformed people. My daughter has Autism and everyday is difficult. She may not talk but she has a lot to say in her own way. She is very smart it just takes her a little longer to learn.
    She can play like other kids. She has feelings too. Please be understanding and educated about Autism. All parents of autistic kids want understanding and acceptance. So please next time you see a child misbehaving don't be so quick to judge. You don't know what we feel as a parent of an autistic child.
     My daughter doesn't talk. I can't ask her how her day was and get a response. I don't like to see my child struggle while other kids can get it right. Everyday we feel pain when our children struggle. They are viewed as not normal. We cannot change our children but we can change the world's view on Autism. Children with Autism are beautiful, smart, bright kids.Open your heart and your minds and you will see how bright our kids are!!!! Help spread Autism awareness and acceptance. Our kids deserve that much.