A Love Letter to Anna Author’s note: This originally ran on May 18, 2015. But I’ve noticed that prom season is upon us again, and thought I’d dig it out and dust it off. It’s a favorite of mine for so many reasons. My dear Anna, I remember when I was asked to the senior prom. […]
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A Helping Hand for Autistic Individuals and their Families
When my son was born in 1996, he was among the 1 in 250 children born with autism spectrum disorder. Today, that figure is 1 in 36. Over the years, I've come to learn that that autistic individuals require a special kind of support in order to live productive, fulfilling and independent lives. And that, increasingly, their loved ones and caregivers need the same.
I've also come to realize that traditional approaches to communication, socialization, recreation, school, diet, discipline, health and hygiene must give way to more creative, more knowing approaches. As my knowledge – and my son – have grown, other mothers and fathers have sought my counsel. Together, we explore these new strategies. I’ve become their trusted resource. And now, I can become yours.
I've also come to realize that traditional approaches to communication, socialization, recreation, school, diet, discipline, health and hygiene must give way to more creative, more knowing approaches. As my knowledge – and my son – have grown, other mothers and fathers have sought my counsel. Together, we explore these new strategies. I’ve become their trusted resource. And now, I can become yours.
