Features:
Celebrating Autism Acceptance Month
An autism dad shares how his family celebrates this notable month.
Jeremy Brown
Let Your Mind Empower You
A mom shares her experience of learning to master her mindset.
Amanda Lees
Finding The U In Autism
Tips to make the parenting journey easier.
Preeja Balan and Usha Nayar
South Africa Autism Support
A look at the autism resources available to South Africans.
Yolanda Loftus
Symbols for Autism: What Do They Mean
Understanding the puzzle piece and other autism symbols.
Donnesa McPherson
Understanding Your Child's Behavior
Learn more about autism behaviors to better support your child.
Dan Jones
Poetry Corner: Spectrum Arithmetic
A poem inspired by a highly motivated autism student.
Alan Sugar
Vacation Tips To Live By
Plan your next holiday with these simple strategies.
Angela Chapes
Autism Warrior: Carter Jaden Bonus
Meet Carter Jaden Bonus: pro-golfer, motivational speaker and autism advocate.
Don't Let Your Battery Run Low
Give yourself permission to take a break and go bonkers.
Karen Kaplan
The Prevalence of ADHD in Mothers
Advice for mothers struggling with ADHD.
Rachel Andersen
Parenting and Self Care: Steps to Foster Caregiver Resilience
How to foster resilience as a caregiver.
Laura Sambrookes-McQuade
Coping Strategies for Autism Caregivers
Tips for self-support as the caregiver of an autistic child.
Shazeen Ahmad
What’s New On The Bookshelf?
The Universal Symptoms of Autism: Connecting Behaviors to Their Causes to Help Your Loved One Thrive.
Lorriane Piepkorn.
Functional Communication Goals For Autism
A look at the benefits of functional communication goals for your child.
Donnesa McPherson
What is the Early Start Denver Model?
Explore this behavioral therapy method and its possible benefits.
Sharon Longo
How To Support The Siblings Of A Child With ASD
Explore the difficulties siblings face and how to support your neurotypical child’s development.
Donnesa McPherson
Virtual Reality Aids Anxiety And Phobia Reduction In Children With Autism
A pediatrician shares her experience of virtual reality and how it can help.
Evelyn Chan
My Family, Our Autism
Celebrating autistic family members.
Amanda Auckland
Dear Readers,
While the month of April may be a time for wildlife to emerge, with some animals building shelters to protect their babies, for parents of children with autism, this may also be a time to assess or reassess the support systems in their lives. Our theme this month is “Building a Support Network,” and having a solid foundation of individuals and strategies, as well as an array of coping skills for the caregivers, is extremely important.
Because April is also Autism Acceptance Month, Jeremy Brown, a dad with two boys on the autism spectrum, shares his family’s personal narrative called “Celebrating Autism Acceptance Month.” While each family’s story is different and important, Amanda Auckland celebrates her autistic family members in her article, “My Family, Our Autism.”
Many parents and caregivers may feel as if they are getting lost in everything they must do for their child with autism, but the parenting advice provided by Preeja Balan and Usha Nayar in their article, “Finding the U in Autism” may help many parents on their journey to find their way while navigating their child’s world.
While parents and caregivers can always use some help in knowing what to do to help their neurodiverse child, it’s also important to provide some self-support. A caregiver can’t be of much help if they are unwell or losing steam. Take a look at “Coping Strategies for Autism Caregivers,” by Shazeen Ahmad for some helpful tips.
We know how important it is to provide help for our children with autism, but it is also important to provide encouragement and assistance to our neurotypical children as they deal with the difficulties that may arise as the sibling of a child on the spectrum. Donnesa McPherson explores this topic with her article, “How to Support the Siblings of a Child with ASD.”
Finally, sometimes finding that one helpful hint or idea, especially when it comes to alleviating any fears or anxieties our children may have, can make a world of difference. Dr. Evelyn Chan is a pediatrician who shares her experience with this in her article, “Virtual Reality Aids Anxiety and Phobia Reduction in Children with Autism.”
As you look at all of the support systems in your child’s life, remember that you are part of that important network. Accept your own short-comings and forge ahead so you can focus on all the wonderful ways your child has progressed and shone. Share those milestones with others so they may also celebrate with you and take part in making others aware of and accepting of all those with autism.
Happy reading!
Mark Blakey
Founder
Autism Parenting Magazine
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