Learning About Autism

My friends at work often ask how we’re able to do it with 2 kids when they’re having a hard time with one. I honestly don’t think we could have accomplished all we have if it wasn’t for Bob and Donna, my mother and father in law.

When we’re heading to work at 6:45 in the morning Bob and Donna are getting up to get Zac and Katie. They feed, bathe, clothe and take Zac to school. Later in the day, after watching Katie all day, they pick Zac up from school and, during the summer months, take him swimming. Sometimes they even shuttle Zac back and for to occupational therapy or speech. Then it’s home to snack, watch a little TV and do some homework. Sometimes, when Zac’s not feeling well or we’re sick they offer to let him spend the night so we can rest. When Zac wandered off a few weeks ago and I couldn’t get in contact with my wife they came rushing over to help look for him with me. Now that you know how great they are and all the wonderful things they do I just wanted to take a moment to say “thanks”. We do really appreciate all you do for us and we love you lots. We really couldn’t do it without you.

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Sometimes as a parent of an autistic child it’s easy to get caught up in the tantrums, and fits, and whining and forget that inside your child is still that same little boy or girl you wanted when you decided to have the baby. Don’t forget that even though they may not show it outwardly they’re still kids and kids are always be kids. Let them play in the dirt. Let them eat fries and get ketchup all over their face and shirt. Don’t worry about the scrapes and cuts, every little kid gets them. Give your child a chance to be a kid. Whether or not you realize, it’s good for them and it’s good for you. So take a moment to relax, let all your cares fade away and just be a kid again with your child. You’re never too old to swing on the swing or climb on the monkey bars.

Photo: Zac eats french fries and a burger at Carl’s Jr. after having a good day at school. Sometimes it’s good to give them rewards they enjoy to help build positive behaviors. We’re lucky that Zac gets as much from verbal reinforcement as he does from physical rewards (bribery). Photo by Daddy.

Tags: Life by Loyd
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