What are you most worried about?
I remember I was terrified of the day my nonverbal autistic daughter got a wiggly tooth. I was so worried that it was going to scare her or traumatize her, that she wouldn’t understand what I meant when I tried to explain it.
But you know what, she was excited. Just like I was when I was a kid. We put it in a bag and put it under her pillow and my girl got a coupon from the tooth fairy to go pick a toy from the store the next day.
Now that we’ve passed that milestone, I’m worried about puberty.
Luckily I’ve found a book on kindle unlimited that addresses this exact topic and I’m excited to get into it.
I feel like sometimes I am my own worst enemy, I hold myself back because I’m afraid to acknowledge things that I’m not ready for.
But here’s the honest truth, we will never be ready for everything and life goes on, ready or not.
What are you most worried about? Drop a line in the comments, let’s talk.
Parents of children with special needs often face unique worries and challenges when it comes to discussing and supporting milestones in their children's lives. From early concerns about seemingly small events like losing a first tooth to larger transitions such as puberty, these moments can be especially significant and sometimes anxiety-provoking. It’s common to feel uncertain about how to communicate these changes, particularly with nonverbal children who might find it hard to express their feelings or understand explanations. However, research and shared experiences highlight that creative and gentle approaches—like turning a wiggly tooth into an exciting event with the tooth fairy tradition—can create positive associations and reduce fear. Addressing puberty is another milestone that can be confusing and worrying for parents. Fortunately, resources tailored for families of children on the autism spectrum exist, including books and guides that cover puberty in an accessible way. These resources often include tips on how to prepare children for bodily changes, discuss privacy and personal care, and establish routines that respect sensory sensitivities. It’s important for parents to acknowledge that feeling unprepared or fearful is natural. Many caregivers find themselves holding back because they are uncertain about what lies ahead. Yet embracing vulnerability and being open to learning as you go fosters a supportive environment for both parent and child. Engaging with communities focused on inclusion and shared experiences—such as online forums and support groups under hashtags like #asd, #inclusion, and #parenthood—can offer valuable advice and encouragement. These networks remind families that they are not alone and provide practical strategies for navigating milestones compassionately. Ultimately, while no parent can be fully ready for every challenge, accepting this and responding with love and patience makes a profound difference. Through sharing worries, seeking knowledge, and celebrating milestones, families can move forward with hope and resilience.
