Sadly, judgment seems like it’s just part of parenting these days…but when you’re raising an autistic child, the judgment is often taken to a whole new level.
This article shows you how to navigate the challenges you face as an autism parent, and gives you nine ideas and suggestions to help you shatter stigmas and empower yourself in the face of judgment.
Whether it’s “well-meaning” family members, strangers at the grocery store, or even your care providers and therapists who seem to be judging you or your child, these practical tips and strategies aim to offer guidance, support, and encouragement.
Let's dive in…
Educate and Advocate
Take an active role in educating others about autism by sharing accurate information, dispelling myths, and promoting acceptance. Becoming an advocate can empower both yourself and your child. Never share more than you feel comfortable with, and if you don’t have the energy to do this every time there is an issue, that’s ok! Just do what you can, when you can.
Seek Support
Connect with other autism parents who can relate to your experiences. Join local support groups or online communities to share challenges, gain insights, and receive emotional support. Knowing that you aren’t alone is a great way to not feel so alone. Trust me when I tell you there are a lot of other parents out there that know what you’re going through and can help show you the best way forward.
Prioritize Self-Care
Remember to take care of yourself! Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it's practicing mindfulness, pursuing hobbies, or seeking therapy. Prioritizing self-care boosts resilience in the face of judgment, and it just makes you feel better about everything.
Surround Yourself with Positivity When Possible
Surround yourself with positive and supportive people who uplift you. Distance yourself from those who contribute to negative stigmas. Seek out those who appreciate and understand your parenting journey. This can be hard, but if there are people in your life that are constantly dragging you down and taking your energy, it may be time to reevaluate the relationship you and your child have with them.
Focus on Your Child's Strengths
Celebrate and highlight your child's strengths, talents, and unique abilities. Shifting the focus to their positive qualities can help combat negative judgments and promote a more inclusive perspective. No one knows your child better than you do - focus on their growth and the good things that are happening for them when someone points out the ways they may be struggling.
Establish Boundaries
Set boundaries with those who make judgmental or insensitive comments. Clearly communicate what is acceptable and unacceptable, creating a safe space for both you and your child. You are their protector, and oftentimes their voice. As their parent, you owe it to them to create the safest environment possible, even if you have to step outside your comfort zone to do it.
Practice Self-Compassion
With that being said, you also need to be kind to yourself and remember that you are doing your best as a parent! Practice self-compassion by acknowledging your efforts, forgiving mistakes, and embracing the learning process.
No one is perfect, and there will be times when “bad” things happen. Do what you can to connect with yourself and your child after a negative event and give yourself some grace if you didn’t handle things well.
Educate Your Inner Circle
Educate your family and close friends about autism and its realities…perhaps share this blog with them! Provide them with resources, books, or documentaries to enhance their understanding and support. The more they know, the more they’ll hopefully be able to understand your child’s challenges and the unique way you need to respond to certain situations.
Celebrate Achievements
Recognize and celebrate the achievements and milestones, no matter how small. This goes for both yourself and your child. Positive reinforcement can boost confidence and resilience, allowing you to navigate judgment with greater strength. Autism parenting can feel like a giant slog some days, although I often feel like that’s just parenting in general…devoting just 5 minutes a day to gratitude practice can go a long way toward helping you focus on the positive things happening with your child.
Conclusion
Remember, every parent's journey is unique, and it's important to find strategies that work best for you. By implementing these suggestions, you can empower yourself as an autism parent and contribute to shattering stigmas and eradicating the judgment so many of us face.
No one likes to face judgment, and goodness knows we face a lot more of it than most parents do. But there are ways to combat it and focus on what matters most: you and your child.
Drop me a comment below and let me know: what’s your favorite way to deal with judgment from others? Is it something I mentioned above, or is there something else that helps you? I’d love to know what’s working for you and your family!
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