Recently, during an online discussion with fellow parents navigating the challenges of autism, one mother lamented how she often feels “stabby” when hearing parents of neurotypical kids remark on how fortunate we are to have free summer school options. It’s hard not to feel a mix of frustration and envy at times. I told her to respond with a playful, “Yes, autism has its perks!” This got us all reflecting on the unique advantages that come with parenting a child on the spectrum.
1. Convenient Bus Access
One of the best perks? The bus stop is literally my driveway. I can watch my child board the bus from the comfort of my home—often still in my slippers, coffee in hand. It’s a quick walk of just a few feet, and drop-offs are just as simple. I can sit on my steps and catch up on the latest gossip while my child heads off to school.
2. Exceptional Therapists
Throughout this journey, I’ve encountered some of the most dedicated professionals in the field. Whenever I’m feeling overwhelmed, I have a knowledgeable support system to turn to for guidance. Shoutout to the incredible speech therapist who finally helped my child with eating—her expertise is invaluable!
3. Vibrant Online Community
The online support network has been a lifesaver for my sanity. Those early morning wake-ups? There’s always someone else awake and ready to chat about everything from sheer exhaustion to the latest episode of our favorite show. That camaraderie makes a world of difference.
4. Supportive School Team
My child has a fantastic team at school, creating a collaborative environment to ensure his success. When we gather for meetings, it’s clear that everyone is committed to making progress happen.
5. Exploring Alternative Treatments
As a parent, you often find yourself researching various treatments to support your child’s development. It’s fascinating how quickly your perspective shifts, making you open to options you might have previously dismissed. With insurance covering a number of visits, I’m eager to explore these new avenues, which have started to influence my own health choices too.
6. Celebrating Small Victories
The little milestones often take your breath away. Whether it’s a new word spoken or a social interaction, these moments—big or small—are what truly matter. They deserve to be cherished, and no one should ever diminish their significance.
7. Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills
Parenting a child with autism has sharpened my ability to view challenges from multiple perspectives, not just for my child but in life overall. This newfound insight is enlightening and beneficial.
In summary, while there are undeniable challenges in raising a child with autism, there are also many rewarding aspects that shouldn’t be overlooked. However, let’s kindly remind others that it’s not appropriate to comment on our supposed “luck” regarding summer programs.
For further reading on family-building options and the journey of parenthood, this is an excellent resource: Resolve. And if you’re curious about at-home insemination methods, check out our informative piece here. Additionally, for insights on IVF, you can visit Intracervical Insemination.