Why I’m Embracing a Structure Free Summer for My Child

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Why I’m Embracing a Structure Free Summer for My Child

We’ve finally made it to the end of the school year with two months of summer ahead of us. While some parents rush to sign their kids up for camps, activities and outings to fill the days, I’m embracing the free space. 

As mom of an autistic child, the school year is tough! It’s full of hurdles to navigate from sun up to sundown.

By the time summer rolls around we’re all emotionally and physically exhausted. There’s no mental capacity left to schedule more activities.

Embracing a structure free summer gives us all the break we so desperately need.

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Why Getting a Diagnosis Matters

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Why Getting a Diagnosis Matters

Over the years as a speaker and advocate, I often have people say to me – oh I know my child is (insert condition) but I don’t see the point of getting a diagnosis. Or – I know I have (insert condition) so I don’t need a diagnosis.

Each time I hear this it takes all my effort to keep my internal voice from screaming at them – having a diagnosis matters!!

In the age of Dr. Google, we have a wealth of information at our fingertips. While it’s great to be able to educate yourself on a condition, it’s important to remember you are not a medical professional (and even if you are, you need an unbiased opinion).

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Back to School = New Round of Advocacy

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Back to School = New Round of Advocacy

Just the thought of a new school year gives me anxiety. Anxiety about the change in routine for my child. Anxiety about having to explain and fight for their needs to a new teacher. Anxiety about starting yet another round of advocating for my child.

While many parents and caregivers have some level of anxiety about a new school year, this anxiety is heightened when you have a child with disabilities.

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Why We Need to Embrace Not Fear Our Kids' Labels

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Why We Need to Embrace Not Fear Our Kids' Labels

A common fear I hear from parents and caregivers is not wanting their child to be labelled. There can be so much resistance to getting a child assessed or accepting the diagnosis due to this unnecessary fear. Yet we need to embrace not fear labels.

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