Thursday, May 7, 2015

Autism mum

It's been 2 years since my last post. A lot can change in 2 years. Back then, I lived in a tiny rented cottage with my husband and 2 kids and was suffering considerable depression.

We now have our own lovely home, an extra child, and I've overcome the depression.

The challenge now is my 4yo son who was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder about 18 months ago. Life is now a weekly juggle of early intervention therapies and helping our son cope day-to-day... All the while learning about this whole new world of Autism!

There's so much to say on this topic. So today I'll just talk about the ups and downs of the last couple of days.

My DS had a successful week at his mainstream preschool. By successful I mean no biting or hitting other children. He doesn't mean to hurt people, he just doesn't know how to react in certain situations. I was so proud of him, and then 2 little people crushed my pride when they sought me out to announce that my son is "always naughty at preschool".

I realised that one of my biggest challenges won't be my son's behaviour, but educating others to understand and accept his behaviour.

To others he may appear naughty. To me, he's amazing and tries so hard everyday just to achieve things we take for granted, like communication.

Celebrate the spectrum.