Hi there!
My name is Rachel, and I am the proud mother of a beautiful 5-year-old daughter named Lily. Lily is an amazing little girl, but she happens to have autism. Autism is a complex neurological disorder that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior. It presents unique challenges that can be overwhelming at times. In this blog, I want to share with you my daily struggles and some tips on how to manage each day.
Every day is a challenge, but we take it one day at a time. Lily is nonverbal, which means she can't communicate with words. This can be difficult for both of us because I have to figure out what she needs or wants based on her behavior. Sometimes she gets frustrated, and it can lead to meltdowns, which can be overwhelming. I have learned to be patient and understanding, and I try to provide a calm and safe environment for her.
One of the biggest challenges we face is the lack of routine. Children with autism thrive on routine, and any deviation from it can be stressful. Lily has a structured schedule that we follow every day, and it helps her stay calm and focused. We also use visual schedules and social stories to help her understand what is expected of her. These tools have been a lifesaver, and they make our daily routine much smoother.
Another challenge we face is sensory overload. Lily is very sensitive to loud noises, bright lights, and certain textures. Going to the grocery store can be overwhelming for her, so we try to avoid crowded places as much as possible. We also have sensory tools like fidget toys, weighted blankets, and noise-canceling headphones that help her cope with sensory overload.
One of the most important things we do every day is to celebrate the small victories. Lily is amazing, and she works hard every day to overcome her challenges. We make sure to acknowledge her achievements, no matter how small they are. It could be something as simple as trying a new food or playing with a new toy. These moments of joy remind us that we are making progress and give us the strength to keep going.
Having a child with autism can be challenging, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. I have learned to appreciate the small things in life and to find joy in the simple moments. If you know someone who has a child with autism, here are some tips that might help:
Be patient and understanding
Provide a structured routine
Use visual aids to help with communication
Have sensory tools available
Celebrate small victories
Being a mother to a child with autism is not always easy, but it is always worth it. We face challenges every day, but we also have moments of joy that make it all worthwhile. If you know someone who is raising a child with autism, be there for them, offer support, and most importantly, celebrate their victories, no matter how small.
Much Love!