When I received my daughter’s autism diagnosis, a medical professional casually remarked, “She can enjoy a barbecue, but she won’t be able to host one.” I was taken aback. What does that even mean for a two-year-old? Maybe they thought I couldn’t handle more nuanced information or were trying to connect it to my own life. All I could think about were the limitations they seemed to impose on my child’s future. (Spoiler: she loves barbecues!)
As I walked hand in hand with my curious little one, who was soaking up every sight and sound around her, I felt overwhelmed with uncertainty and questions. What do I do now? I already sensed differences in her behavior that led me down a dark path of online research (a cautionary tale for anyone with undiagnosed ADHD). But now it was real; the diagnosis was not just a possibility—it was my new reality.
Yes, it’s frightening to receive such a diagnosis for your beloved child. The fear often stems from the narrative that surrounds it. Society thrives on fear, and we tend to fear what we don’t understand. But here’s the good news: your child is going to be okay and so will you. Here are ten insights that can provide clarity and comfort as you navigate this journey.
- Pause and Breathe: It may sound cliché, but it’s crucial. Before diving into every possible therapy, take a moment to enjoy your child. Spend time at the park or just have fun together. Remember, your child is still the same wonderful person they were before the diagnosis. The only change is your new understanding of how their brain operates.
- Listen to Autistic Perspectives: Engaging with autistic adults has been one of the most enlightening experiences for me. Understand that autistic children become autistic adults, and many are eager to share their insights. When entering these spaces, prioritize listening and learning from their experiences.
- Explore Your Options: You may receive numerous recommendations for therapies. Instead, take a step back and research. Listen to those who have undergone these therapies before committing to any approach that claims to “fix” your child.
- Your Child is Not Broken: It’s essential to instill the belief in your child that they are not broken. Society often imposes unrealistic standards, but at home, create a safe space where your child is fully accepted for who they are. Embrace the concept of neurodiversity to help combat stigma.
- Build Your Support System: Be intentional about who you surround yourself with. Seek out those who uplift and support both you and your child. Avoid groups or individuals who focus on limitations rather than strengths.
- Embrace Learning: The influx of information can be overwhelming. Instead of feeling like you’re drowning, approach it as a fun learning experience. Take small steps, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
- Understand the Spectrum: The spectrum of autism is not a simple line; it’s a complex array of experiences. Educate yourself about this diversity to better understand your child’s unique journey.
- Honor Their Identity: Use identity-first language (autistic) instead of person-first (has autism) when referring to your child. Most in the autistic community prefer the former. Your child will ultimately decide how they wish to identify, and it’s important to respect that.
- Adapt to Your New Normal: Every family is different, and that’s perfectly okay. Let go of societal expectations and embrace the unique journey your family is on. Enjoy the ride, and remember that your child is enough just as they are.
- Connect with Resources: For more insights, check out this other blog post that can provide additional support. For more authoritative information, look at this resource on pregnancy that can help you understand the broader context of family planning.
Summary
Navigating your child’s autism diagnosis can be daunting, but it’s important to remember that knowledge is power. Focus on love, understanding, and building a supportive environment. Embrace your child’s identity, explore resources, and remind yourself that your child is not broken but rather uniquely themselves.
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