Autism Parenting Magazine Issue 65(Member's Dashboard) | Page 16

PARENTAL ADVICE ent to the moon and back with the family. If you can’t do that, you will never know the kind of difference you could be capable of making in the special needs world. Now, to the parents sitting on the other side of the table: respect your child’s teacher and therapist. Be actively involved in your child’s education and ther- apy. Work with the professionals, and help them un- derstand your child. No one knows your child better than you, so your involvement is crucial for your child. Ask questions, and do your best to understand ev- erything you can. Most importantly, educate them. They may have a degree in your child’s specialty, but that is just a small step toward understanding and knowing the unique disability that your child has. Be your child’s advocate, educate others, and make them aware. I know it is not easy sitting on your side of the table. I know. I sit there now, too. I never thought I would find myself on that side of the table when I was teaching. I am here to say the parents’ side of the table is the hardest. If both sides keep an open mind and work with each other, then amazing things can happen for the child in need. So, thank you to everyone who sits at the table. In the end, we are all in it together in order to better the life of the child with special needs, and that simply can’t be done without both sides. Angela Conrad is a former special education teacher turned autism mom. She is the mother to two boys who have autism.  She is  a published author of the book  Two Brothers One Journey: The Loving, Coura- geous Struggles of an Au- tism Mom.    You can follow Angela on social media. Website Facebook WWW.CHARISHILLS.ORG Phone: 940-964-2145 HF Autism ~ ADD/HD ~ LD ~ Asperger’s Located in Sunset, TX Charis Hills is a residential, recreational and educational summer camp for children ages 7 - 18 with high functioning autism as well as ADD/HD, Learning Differences and SPD. Our campers make new friends, discover a highly personalized, fun-filled and nurturing environment while filling their heart’s desire to be accepted and succeed in new activities. We have over 25 activities to choose from. Campers play with a purpose. 1-3 week sessions. is Charis or Greek f nd grace a ce . n accepta VIEW PARENT VIDEO