Autism Advocacy
is for Tools - What tools are there now that were not there in the beginning that could help other parents ?
The key is doing your research . Raise your hand . Get and apply for CO Medicaid early . We used “ Child Find ” which is free until the child is three . This gave us a weekly touch-in with a speech and occupational therapist . Don ’ t be afraid to push for your child ; you are his / her voice !
is for Inspire - As a parent , when you look at your child or children , what inspires you ?
is on the spectrum ( and fully understanding his / her progress in therapy ) will help your mental state .
Try to not be too hard on yourself . Autism happened to your child , not you , so get over it ! The sooner you move from : “ I don ’ t know , maybe we wait , no , they are fine ” to taking action is the smartest thing you will ever do for your child . Get him / her early intervention as soon as you can .
You are not alone . Fight for your child ; you are their voice . Lay down your reservations or inhibitions about autism and focus on your child .
Where do I begin ? She is sweet , sensitive , and the things that bother me do not even phase her . I have learned to look at the world using her perspective , and it has taught me so much about human interaction .
She is a fighter . Her work ethic would put some working adults to shame . Early on she was getting 30 hours of ABA therapy and going to preschool 14 hours a week ! She is also fiercely protective of her younger brother Max .
is for Support - Are there things you struggle with or have struggled with , and what types of support do you still need ?
Struggling is hard . It is also relative to where your child is in the cycle of things . Have they been diagnosed ? Are you still waiting to get treatment ? My advice is don ’ t wait , and you must do your research concerning programs and support groups .
I wish there were more parent groups that would collaborate and mentor each other . My wife and I started one , but there should be a central hub where we can all connect .
M
is for Manage - What keys to success can you leave with parents so that they can better manage their day-to-day efforts ?
Know that there will be good and bad days . Being flexible and understanding about where your child
Derrick Hayes the “ enTIEtainer ” is an Educator , Professional Speaker , Consultant , and Entertainer who lives in Columbus , Georgia .