Autism Mama
You do everything in your power to help your babies. Having an autistic daughter and a daughter with sensory issues, I learned that it goes even further than you would ever suspect. You do everything in your power to make them feel comfortable and make it a safe but fun environment for them. I have become that hair dresser (which I am terrible at), I have to speak up for my child (more than I would if they wasn’t autistic), I make foods that I know they will eat, I don’t sleep ( my daughter went to bed at 4 am and I have to be up at 5:30am to get ready for work). Our days look different but we try to stay on schedule bc going off the books messes with them. Learn about autism if you will. Be prepared for our meltdowns bc they will happen. Please be patient with us because it can take us a moment to regulate their emotions. #autismadvocate #fyplemon8 #autismparenting #fyplemon #learnonlemon8
Parenting a child with autism and sensory issues involves unique daily challenges that require adaptability, patience, and deep understanding. Many autism parents develop new skills, such as cutting hair or preparing special meals, to create a safe and comforting environment tailored to their child's needs. Using tools like PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) cards helps improve communication, while sensory tools like headphones and iPads can provide necessary relief from overwhelming stimuli. Sleep disturbances are common among autistic children, often causing exhaustion for both parent and child. Parents often rely on routines and schedules to maintain stability, as deviation from these can trigger meltdowns or emotional dysregulation. Advocating for the child at school and therapy sessions is a vital, ongoing part of the process, requiring significant energy and emotional resilience. Removing sensory irritants such as tags from clothing and preparing preferred foods are additional ways parents support comfort and reduce distress. Constant worry and vigilance about their child's well-being underpin the autism parenting experience. Understanding these realities fosters greater empathy and patience from society, highlighting the importance of community awareness and support for autism families.