Top Ten: What to Remember After the Diagnosis
Your child was just diagnosed to be on the autism spectrum. This is scary and confusing diagnosis. No two children with autism are the same. Every child has his or her own “quirks”. As a parent of a child on the spectrum, here is my top ten list for parents.
- This is not your fault.
I can remember going over memories in my head. I went through every scenario of “what I could have done different”. Studies have not been able to find a cause or a cure. There are too many outside factors. This is not your fault.
- Ask for help.
Ask your family for support. Find support from doctors, therapists, and educators. If you have a faith-based community, cling to it. Find other families who are dealing with the same issues. There are so many people who want to help. Let them help.
- Accept help from teachers, educators, and medical professionals.
Gather a tribe of professionals to help you on this journey. There is so much help available now compared to even ten years ago. Take advantage to the expertise of others.
- If you have other children, remember you have other children.
Siblings of children on the autism spectrum can feel they are unnoticed. Anyone can get caught up in the whirlwind of a diagnosis, IEP’s, and other treatments. Spend intentional time with other children. Make sure their feelings and opinions are valued and heard.
- Remember your spouse.
Times in life like these can either make or break a marriage. Try to find time for each other. Do not let this diagnosis become the center of your life, even if it feels like it is right now.
- Create a team and cheering squad.
Gather a team of people to support you, your family and your child. Also, find others who want to help, but may not have all the answers. Some people just want to be there to encourage and love your child. Let them be your cheerleader!
- Educate yourself.
Research all the reliable information you can find. Ask professionals and fellow ASD parents where they get their information. This journey will involve a lot of trial and error. Be willing to try different methods that might help your child be their best.
- Create your new “normal”.
Establish a routine for you and your family. Children on the spectrum thrive on routine. Find a routine that can benefit everyone in the family.
- You can do this.
You can do this. Things may seem helpless now. However, there are so many resources and assistance out there. You may feel alone. Statistics show that more and more children are being diagnosed on the spectrum. Therefore, there are more and more parents like you.
10. Your child is amazing!
Every child is truly unique. No matter what a piece of paper says, your child is wonderful and amazing. Never forget that!
