What's it like to be an "autism mother?" These Mother's Day essays from mothers around the world provide insight into the world of autism mothering. You're sure to find at least one that resonates with your experience. Enjoy!
1. What Does It Take to Be an Autism Mom?
Autism parenting is ... different, not less. So much more. It is what we do, but also who we are: Autism Mothers.
2. Believe in Your Child's Dreams
Roger wants to go to college and be a video game designer. He wants to travel to Japan maybe even go to school there. I have to believe and I do that yes this will happen for him. If I do not believe in him and help him believe in himself who is going to?
3. A Unique Mother's Day Gift
For all of you Spectrum Moms out there who think there's no hope for the future and that no one else understands what you're going through, please remember this. It is possible for our kids to get better. You just have to take the first step and then another and another...
4. On "Being Jay's Mom"
I always knew I wanted to be a mommy when I grew up. I wanted one boy and one girl. I got my boy and I got my girl. But I got much more too. My precious baby boy also came with a special invitation into a very elite group, the Autism Mommy Club.
5. Songs in the Key of Parenthood
When you turn on the radio, you hear lots of songs about love - the joy, pain, pleasure, remorse, sleepless nights, sweetness, and longing of love! But just about all of these songs are about romantic love between a man and a woman. That's wonderful, but what about the love between parents and children?
6. Touched By Autism
OK so you're here probably because you have been touched by autism. Well I sometimes feel like "autism" has HIT ME IN THE HEAD. I have three sons that are on the spectrum in some way.
7. On Being an Autism Mom
Two shorter essays reflect distinct views on being an autism mom. Both reflect on their sense that being an "autism mom" is no different from any other kind of motherhood... with its joys, challenges and opportunities for growth.
8. An Autism Mom Reflects on Daily Struggles and Triumphs
As a mom of children with ASD, I often hear, "You have your hands full.", and "I don't know how you do it." Of course, since I see the struggles of my kids, it seems so selfish to focus on how hard it may be for me. I fight feeling sorry for myself, even when I want to...and sometimes I really want to. (Sometimes I actually do.)
9. An Autism Mom Follows Her Instincts
Whether you're a first-time mother, or it's your tenth time around, listen to your instincts and share your concerns. And if it turns out to be autism, know there's a community of mothers out there who understand and want to help. You are not alone.
10. An Autism Mom Gets Back on Track
I am going to pat you on the back, tell you that you are amazing, and that you always know what to do. We do it for each other every day, and I couldn't do it without you. Happy Mother's Day!
