Family Support Guide Tools: Tips for Families, From Families

Peer support encourages parents/caregivers to advocate, to set high expectations and to seek supportive communities.

Table of Contents

  • No one knows your child’s abilities and challenges as well as you do. You know the kinds of support your child needs to excel, and you are your child’s best advocate.
  • If you have a hard time picturing what you want your children’s future to look like, at least be absolutely clear about what you don’t want it to look like.
  • Never let anyone lower your expectations or make you think less of your child/adult. Set your sights high and gather your angels around you to help your son/daughter be all they are capable of.
  • Our children are not broken and don’t need to be “fixed” – they are exactly who they are supposed to be!
  • When you find the brain space and emotional energy, learn about systems, services, solutions, and ways to create the positive life you want for your family member. Information is power.
  • Don’t be afraid to share something that has worked, especially if it is a creative solution. Parents and others who care have historically provided the best solutions for people with disabilities, and have been the ones leading the way to positive change in their lives.
  • Life is not sub-separate. Don’t be afraid to think about how the world can change for the better so your family can live the fullest life possible. Act on the possibilities of that fullest life.
  • There are so many things to think about and do, it often feels overwhelming. You don’t need to do everything, because you will often do nothing. Choose the most important things that need to be accomplished, preferably one at a time.
  • Your friends and family will want to help but don’t know how. Don’t abandon them, but reach out and connect with other families on the spectrum. They will become your extended family and an understanding support system. Connect with your local autism center and build a circle of support.

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