The Summer and 4th of July

Well Happy Fourth of July--to everyone.
Summer poses different challenges for those of us who live with Autism.
Our kids for the most part are used to structure and routine. When summer comes and school ends our kids seem to fall apart. Not always and not with all kids but enough to write a little about it----

IF you have observed any new or different behavior or stemming it may because of this type of interruption.

Look we all need a break especially if we are ones who are "managing" our families. Summer is a time that allows us to sleep in or change things around a little since we don't have the routine of school. The irony is that it can also be the thing that makes our kids a little more crazy.

Don't beat yourself up trying to keep structure or uniformity. It can be a double edged sword. It may be a way to keep peace in the house and comfort for your child however it can always be a way to desensitize your baby to change. Our kids learn much the same way most of us learn -- They have to experience challenges and change in order to process and develop an ability to tolerate and act appropriately in everyday situations. Again you have to pick your battles but you have to remember that the more you expose them to changing environments the more they will adapt. You must be educated in your choices; knowing what will work with your child and when the time is right. Don't hesitate to try because in the end your whole family will benefit.

I have also found that age is a great equalizer for our children also. My observation is that as our kids gain age they seem to gain ability to tolerate. Don't misunderstand our babies will always be autistic but there is something to be said for time.

So do what you can and do what you think you need to do to keep sanity in your home and lives. Most importantly do not beat yourself up if you cannot maintain the schedule or routine. Also remember that there will come a day that school will no longer be a factor. Our kids have to face the world like anyone else and believe me the support and services vanish . You have to create what you want for your child. Believe me the changes come and our kids get through it. Coming full circle; summer is the perfect time to search for and try new and different things. To open up a dialogue {more like a monologue} with your child to explore new possibilities and experiences. Give them some tools to handle the world outside of Autism.