Coping With Autism and Puberty

While we often hear about the people with autism who are the mild end of the spectrum, there are people who are on the more severe end.

This video is a good picture of what it is like to have children on the severe end. These two boys are very much like my own two children. I encourage you to watch this video.

The Other Side of Being an Autism Dad

I won't deny that there are difficulties that go along with being the parents of children with autism. We have had quite a few crisis moments over the years. The fact that both our children now live in a group home tells you that it is not easy.

Sometimes we only hear the hard stories. But I want to say that it is not all bad. We have some awfully fun times. When our children come for a visit, my heart beats a little faster, not out of panic but out of joy. The hugs they give me when they arrive melt away my stress. Little things like going for Tim Horton's run for tea and donuts are enjoyable activity when my kids are with me. Just being around them fills me with joy and puts a smile on my face.

I do not want to discount the challenges that families with autism face. But we should not be pitied. It is not 24/7 of terrible times. To be honest, there are many times when Logan and Abby are less stressful than our neurotypical children. So be aware that I am good with being an autism dad and autism not able to rob our family of joy.

Silver Linings Have Clouds

As a parent of special needs children, I try to stay positive. I look at the bright side. I rejoice in the little victories. I celebrate those moments when everything works.

All of that is true but special needs parenting is still very difficult.

Our two children with autism live in group homes. While that takes off a lot of pressure, there are still plenty of challenges. There are still committees and government agencies and boards and financial concerns to navigate.

I just came across this post called "The Dark Side to Special Needs Parenting." I don't know the person who wrote it, but I will tell you that this post rings true to our experience.

We don't like to talk about this stuff much, but if you want to understand special needs parents, you are going to have to know it.

Image by pixaby