No legacy is so rich as honesty.
- William Shakespeare
Autism Speaks offers tips for helping siblings understand autism spectrum disorder ("A Sibling's Guide to Autism," 2018). What I love about their suggestions is that they normalize the needs and emotions of siblings. All siblings need time alone with their parents. All siblings experience ambivalent feelings toward their siblings. All siblings need to find activities they can share with their siblings and develop patience for their sibling's interests when they differ from their own. Many families choose to engage the assistance of a professional specialized in child development to facilitate the disclosure process. You may be your child's best advocate, but you can't always go it alone. A professional (e.g., child's doctor, therapist) tasked with educating the family about autism spectrum can provide objective information and recommendations for the entire family. They may also help you see things from your child's perspective and thus create the most supportive environment. You may even find your child's learning process mirrors your personal journey. Think back to the broad spectrum of emotions you experienced when you first learned of your child's diagnosis and the resources you mobilized and prioritized for your child's well-being. Now you can draw on these same resources to support and teach your child about their autism spectrum diagnosis. Your judgment and courage have taken you far in this process; trust your instincts. To paraphrase Mr. Fred Rogers, the freedom communication and honesty bring is "worth the trying."
A Place Where You Fit | Winter 2022
Tune in this Spring to Westview EDU, our education series for parents and caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder. We have an excellent and informative lineup of sessions from both Westview and community experts with the knowledge to share. Visit us online for registration details.
FEBRUARY 3, 2022 GAMING AS A TEACHING TOOL Westview Principal Dr. Laura Casper-Teague and 1830 Building Faculty will discuss how gaming can be used in the classroom as a teaching tool. Learn about the new ClassCraft™ curriculum and how it facilitates learning and teamwork, plus strategies to encourage your child at home.
MARCH 3, 2022 PREPARING YOUR TEEN FOR NEXT STEPS Brandi Timmons, M.Ed, BCBA, LBA, Education Director at Social Motions Skills, will discuss strategies and programs for students transitioning into high school and young adulthood. She also looks at why it’s never too early to prepare.
APRIL 7, 2022 IS IT ADHD OR ASD? LEARNING THE DIFFERENCES Learn what ADHD and Autism have in common, key differences, and strategies to help develop essential executive functioning skills affected by both.
MAY 5, 2022 THE BIRDS AND THE BEES + KIDS WITH ASD Dr. Sarah Mire, Ph.D., returns to reprise her popular talk about puberty and adolescence for kids with autism and tips to help parents navigate this exciting and challenging phase. Page-22 | Wildcat Chronicle
