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.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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