As a parent of two autistic children, I understand the hurdles that autism parents face on a daily basis. In this episode of NeurOrdinary Podcast, we’ll talk about the top five challenges that autism parents encounter and provide strategies to overcome them.
Everyone’s autism parenting journey begins with navigating the diagnosis process, which can be overwhelming and uncertain. I share the importance of educating yourself about autism and connecting with reputable resources (including other autism parents) for support. It is essential to focus on credible support options and avoid harmful treatments or misinformation.
Managing multiple responsibilities is another significant challenge for autism parents.
From being an advocate to a therapist, caregiver, and educator, it's easy to feel stretched thin. I provide tips on effective time management, prioritizing tasks, and seeking support to create a manageable routine.
Financial stress and obligations can also be overwhelming. I share insights on planning ahead, utilizing available resources such as grants and community programs, and taking advantage of early intervention services and school programs.
Self-care is often neglected when the focus is solely on the well-being of our children.
However, it is crucial to prioritize self-care to be a strong advocate and caregiver. I discuss the importance of engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation, seeking emotional support, and accessing specialized self-care coaches.
Throughout the episode, I discuss the emotional toll of autism parenting, the range of emotions that come with a diagnosis, and the common judgment and misconceptions faced by autism parents. I emphasize the importance of building resilience, advocating for understanding, and surrounding oneself with a supportive network.
Join me on this episode of NeurOrdinary as we explore the top five hurdles that autism parents face and learn strategies to overcome them.
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Transcript:
Hey, I’m Karen. And I’m a mom to two amazingly neurospicy autistic kiddos. I don’t have the time or tech skills to make a podcast intro, so let’s just get into it…THIS is the Neurordinary Podcast…..
Today, I’d like to talk about The Top 5 Hurdles that autism Parents face and share strategies on how you can overcome them. As a parent who has experienced most of these challenges firsthand, I hope I can provide guidance and support to you and all the incredible parents who tirelessly care for their children on the autism spectrum…so feel free to share this episode with the other autism families you know so everyone can get the support they need…
Alright, diving in….Hurdle number one: Navigating the Diagnosis
The moment we receive our child’s diagnosis can be overwhelming and full of uncertainty. You may feel lost, scared, and unsure of what the future holds. It's REALLY important to remember that a diagnosis is just the beginning of a new journey.
The key to overcoming this hurdle lies in knowledge and support. Seek out reputable resources, connect with other autism parents, and join support groups or online communities. The key here is reputable…If you hear people talking about “curing” your kids’ autism or anyone mentions a bleach enema, RUN!
I don’t talk specifically about my direct experiences parenting my kids because I want to give them the privacy they deserve. But I can tell you there was a wide range of emotions when we received their diagnosis. And it was different with each kid. It’s ok if you feel a whirlwind of emotions, and even some relief to finally have the “label” that would get you the services and support you need. Whatever you’re feeling is ok!
Take the time to educate yourself about autism, its strengths, and challenges. It’ll help you feel more prepared to deal with the uncertainty of what’s to come, and help you become an empowered and engaged autism parent. Remember, you are not alone—there is a vast network of support waiting to embrace you.
But by seeking out information and connecting with other parents who had been through similar experiences, I gained a sense of empowerment and learned how to navigate this new path, and you can do the same.
Hurdle number two: Balancing All Your Responsibilities
As autism parents, we often find ourselves wearing many hats—advocate, therapist, caregiver, educator, chef, chauffeur, and more. Balancing these responsibilities can be incredibly challenging, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and stretched thin.
For me, the keys to overcoming this hurdle was, and still is, effective time management and seeking support ... .but that might just be my OCD talking…If you can, prioritize tasks, set realistic goals, and delegate when possible, things do seem to get a bit easier. And, if you have a reliable support system, use it! Ask for help from family, friends, or the professionals working with your kids. Look into what support programs are available in your area for families in your situation, and then do what you can to get the help you need. Remember, self-care is not selfish—it's necessary to recharge and maintain your well-being and do all the things for your child that only you can do…anyone can make lunch, but only you can soothe the bad dreams.
I used to really struggle with finding a balance between my responsibilities as a parent and my personal life. But, by learning to prioritize and delegate, I’ve been able to create a more manageable routine that allows me to take care of myself as well. And yes, it does involve my children having a bit more screen time than is currently recommended for their age group…
Which brings us to….
Hurdle number three: Dealing with Judgment and Misunderstanding
You may have heard, autism parents often face judgment and misunderstanding from those who don't fully comprehend the challenges we face. Shocking, I know.
Overcoming this hurdle requires building resilience and advocating for understanding. Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, and professionals who validate your experiences. Educate others about autism and the unique needs of your child. Remember, you are the expert on your child, and your voice deserves to be heard.
And also, keep this quote in the back of your mind: You can’t fix stupid. All the people who may stop and stare or give you a hard time in public, they have NO idea what you and your child are going through. If you wouldn’t go to them for advice, their opinion doesn’t matter.
You know I’ve encountered judgment and misconceptions along my journey as an autism parent. We all have! But when you know you’re doing your best, and so is you kid, and you can develop a poop on everyone who doesn’t like it type of positive attitude, and go about the rest of your day knowing those that don’t get it don’t matter.
Hurdle number four: Financial and Practical Challenges
Autism can bring financial and practical challenges that add an extra layer of stress to our lives. From therapy costs to specialized resources, it can feel overwhelming to manage these financial burdens.
To overcome this hurdle, it's essential to seek out available resources and plan ahead. Research financial assistance programs, grants, and community resources that can provide support. Take advantage of early intervention services and school programs. Remember, there is help available, but you have to reach out and explore your options.
Most states in the US have a waiver that allows you to access Medicaid for your autistic child, regardless of what your income level is. Just google YOUR STATE plus KATIE BECKETT and see what comes up. This program has been a life-saver for our family and probably saved us from living on rice and beans for the past eight years. For more details, check out the show notes below.
By seeking out available resources and planning ahead, I have been able to alleviate some of the financial stress and provide my kids with the necessary support. If you’re struggling, search for a local autism parents group in your area - Facebook is full of them, and reach out to see how everyone is making things work and what resources are available in your area.
Hurdle number five: Self-Care and Emotional Well-being
Autism parenting can be emotionally and physically exhausting. We often neglect our own self-care and well-being as we focus solely on what our kids need. Sometimes, this also turns into an “anything to prevent a meltdown” mindset, which serves NO ONE!
Overcoming this final hurdle requires prioritizing self-care and seeking emotional support. Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Reach out to support groups or therapists (or a self care coach) who specialize in supporting autism parents. Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury—it is an essential component of being a strong advocate and caregiver.
Prioritizing self-care was a challenge for me at first. But, by recognizing the importance of my own well-being and seeking support, I’ve discovered more about who I am and what I’m about. I have a renewed energy, resilience, and a deeper connection with my child. And I really like the person I’ve turned into…and the same is true for my kids!
We can create a nurturing and empowering environment for our children and ourselves, just need a little support is all.
So, let’s walk on this journey together, supporting one another every step of the way. At Out Of Your Ordinary, no one parents alone!
Your love, dedication, and unwavering commitment make a profound difference in the lives of your children. Together, we can overcome any hurdle and create a brighter future for our families.
Thanks for listening, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a comment or review letting me know what you thought about today’s episode. And whatever you do, keep it spicy!
Meet your self-care coach!
