For my readers with a loved one or friend with a loved one on the Autism Spectrum, there is something available that I would have sold my mom's kidneys (both of them) for: a magazine devoted to raising kids on the Spectrum. When you're an Autism parent, you not only don't have the instruction manual to the standard model kid, you don't have the manual to the specialized version. You feel lost, isolated, scared, frustrated, and a whole host of other emotions; and you have really no resources other than the exhausted and equally questioning school staff, medical personnel who rely heavily on prescription drugs to manage any symptoms you bring up, and if you're really lucky, a support group of other special needs parents. But it's usually a really small pool of support.
This magazine, as silly as it sounds, kind of normalizes (for lack of a better word) the Autism parenting experience. It broadens the pool of knowledge and support, gives a quick reference to a world of research, resources, therapies, and common experiences. It is something that would have made a huge difference in my life when I was up with the Cute Chicks at 3 am, given me something to read while they were dismantling the VCR and breaking eggs on the kitchen floor.
So I hope this will help some of you find a little comfort in the middle of the night.
Autism Parenting Magazine
Looks like a wonderful resource tool....and the price is not too bad....I would even kick in to a fund for those who would have financial trouble subscribing.
ReplyDeletevaquero viejo
Angel, I know where you are coming from, as I have discussed this topic here before. This might not be a bad read for people who DON'T have children with autism. Just to inform them, instead of them being so judgemental and quick with unwanted or unneeded advice. That being said, I want to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a safe and blessed New Year. I realize that wishing people would be less judgemental is like wishing that the liberals would just accept defeat and go about their business like conservatives, but one can always hope.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the link. My 18 year old son has pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) and can be challenging to deal with as you stated above. Mainly my fault - I'm type A personality and I often think God picked an austic child for me to learn patience.
ReplyDeletePicks the restaurant of his choice and orders last (out of Dad's ear shot). Often times a frustrating experience, he does not even want to sit down with me when we eat. Good thing I'm not a picky eater. Insists on using a different name EVERY day, some of them hilarious, while insisting on wearing every day clothes - well - every day. Dude - wash those shorts (haven't got time Dad - I don't want to talk about it!). And on and on - you are familiar with this I'm sure.
I cannot imagine a life like that... I am impressed with your patience.
ReplyDeleteAngel, you're amazing. Thank you for always speaking honestly about life, especially with your girls. You help educate people, especially me, about so many things. You have increased my knowledge about autism so much, and have given me the oppprtunity to pass along information that has been needed when it has been hard to find.
ReplyDelete-CM
Too funny:
ReplyDeleteAnonymous Anonymous said...
Thanks for the link. My 18 year old son has pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) and can be challenging to deal with as you stated above. Mainly my fault - I'm type A personality and I often think God picked an austic child for me to learn patience.
My running joke for the last 12 years has been "I asked God to make me more patient, and He gave me an Autistic child"
We often don't know how lucky we are until someone brings their story to our attention. I wish you well and the continued strength to cope with what must seem like a mountain of stress on some days.
ReplyDeleteYour sense of humor, intelligence and pure gritty-ness is an inspiration to all of us. Hugs to your family and special pats and treats for Max.
The two things you'll develop in abundance with Autistic kids are patience and humor.
ReplyDeleteI especially liked the sparkly jar you had the one time, kind of like a lava lamp. A life saver for many, I am sure.
ReplyDeleteHere's the upside (at least with my two boys...one ADD, one Aspergers...
ReplyDeleteThey are both TONS smarter, more clever, and quick-witted than I am.
Which keeps me on my toes, for sure.
Our youngest (the Aspie) has a gift for puns. I kid you not. He's a senior this year, and practically the whole school knows him for his ability coming up with puns. Classmates actually try to think of things that they swear could NOT be used with a pun, and he nails it every time. He's also the sweetest kid you'll ever meet...literally wouldn't hurt a fly.