Introduction
As a parent of a child with autism, I have learned more than I ever expected. Parenting a child with autism has provided me with a unique perspective on life, and has helped me to appreciate the little moments that come with parenting.
Through my experience, I have come to realize that there are many unique things that autism has taught me! In this blog post, I will be exploring some of the lessons I have learned and how they have impacted my life as a parent.
Appreciate the small things
Raising a child with Autism can be overwhelming, but it has also taught me to appreciate and recognize the small moments of joy and progress. Watching my son smile when he masters a new task or seeing him interact with other kids fills my heart with joy.
I’ve learned to take nothing for granted, to revel in the smallest moments of progress, and to find joy in everyday experiences. Even something as simple as seeing my son interact with a new toy in a way that he wasn’t able to before brings me immense happiness.
I have come to learn that it’s important to cherish these small moments and look for beauty and joy even amid struggle. The joys greatly outweigh the struggles; a million to one!
Don't stress or “sweat” the stuff you can't control
As a parent of an autistic child, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and frustrated by the things you can’t control. But learning to accept these things and not sweat the small stuff has been a huge blessing.
It has taught me to live in the present moment and to focus my energy on the things that matter most. I have had to come to terms with the fact that some aspects of my child’s condition are simply beyond my control and there’s no point in worrying about it.
While this is a difficult lesson to learn, it has also taught me to become more resilient and to trust that things will eventually work out.
It's OK to ask for help
As a parent of a child with Autism, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. With all the appointments and therapies, the paperwork, and day-to-day routines, it can be difficult to juggle everything. It’s important to remember that it’s okay to ask for help!
Don’t be afraid to reach out to family and friends for assistance, or even consult a professional if you need more support. There is no shame in asking for help – and your child will benefit from it too. With help, you can make sure that you are providing your child with the best care possible.
Be patient
It’s not always easy to do, but being patient is essential when it comes to parenting a child with autism. There are moments of frustration, confusion, and doubt. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed and even discouraged. But by taking a step back, you can often find the answers you’re looking for.
Whether it’s waiting for a doctor’s appointment, a therapy session, or simply allowing more time to explain something, patience is a key ingredient in helping your child reach their full potential. Even when things seem hopeless, by giving it some time and staying positive, you can create an environment of support and love.
Be flexible
As a parent of a child with autism, I have learned the importance of being flexible. Life can be unpredictable and difficult to manage, but when you can roll with the punches, things become a little easier. Being flexible helps me to stay focused on the task at hand and not get overwhelmed by all of the potential challenges that lie ahead.
It also allows me to remain upbeat, no matter what obstacles may come my way. Flexibility has been an invaluable lesson that has helped me to become a better parent and one that I continue to practice every day.
Advocate for your child
It can be hard to stand up for your child when you’re not sure what’s best. With autism, it’s important to advocate for them in every way possible. Whether it’s talking to their teachers or asking for accommodations at school, advocating is essential.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and speak up on behalf of your child. Know that your voice matters, and even if things don’t always go your way, you’re helping to create a better future for your child. Be their biggest supporter, and let your voice be heard.
Appreciate the journey
It can be easy to focus on the difficulties that come with parenting a child with autism, but there are also innumerable moments of great joy and satisfaction.
Take the time to appreciate each milestone, no matter how small. Celebrate successes and recognize achievements, both big and small. Despite the daily challenges, your child is growing and learning every day.
It can be difficult to find enjoyment in the struggles, but it’s possible. Take some time each day to sit back and appreciate the person your child is becoming. You won’t regret it. Life with autism is an unpredictable journey, but it doesn’t have to be without reward. Enjoy every moment, savor the successes, and embrace the process!
Conclusion
As a parent of a child with autism, I have learned many things that have changed the way I view the world and my role as a parent. Over the years, I have seen firsthand the challenges that come with raising a child on the autism spectrum and all the unique ways in which autism can manifest itself. Through this experience, I have come to better understand autism and develop a newfound appreciation for how it can enrich our lives.
Did You Know? Folate Receptor Autoantibodies (FRAAs) may impede proper folate transport.
Folate (vitamin B9) is very important for your child’s brain development!
During pregnancy, it helps prevent neural tube defects and plays a big role in forming a normal and healthy baby’s brain and spinal cord. Folate also helps cells divide and assists in both DNA and RNA synthesis.
Emerging research suggests that the presence of FRAAs negatively impacts folate transport into the brain.
- Recent studies reveal that a large subgroup of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have FRAAs.
- This suggests that a possible disruption in folate transport across the blood-cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) barrier may potentially influence ASD-linked brain development.
- Screening for the FRAAs in your child should be part of your early intervention strategies.
Is there a test for identifying Folate Receptor Autoantibodies (FRAAs)?
Yes, there is a test – The Folate Receptor Antibody Test (FRAT®) has emerged as a diagnostic tool for detecting the presence of FRAAs.
It is important to screen at an early age or as soon as possible as there may be corrective measures available. Please consult your physician for further information.
To order a test kit, click on the button below.
For information on autism monitoring, screening and testing please read our blog.
