Lorene Dillard Advocacy and Consulting

Many may think ALL children with Autism avoid contact and physical comfort from their parents. This is simply not true. Always remember, children are children first, in times of feeling overwhelmed...sometimes a "reassuring hug or snuggle from a parent can make it all better!"

I have spoken to many parents who have not even thought about the opportunity or the chance to allow siblings to reassure one another or provide support to each other when the older sibling has a disability. Remember "birth order" and honoring this is crutial and necessary.

My son Travis, did "once upon a time" have behaviors which would make this type of interaction with his younger sister of 8 years a concern. We as parents have to allow our children, to emerge and develop their relationships with eachother (under a watchful eye - if necessary), to allow for bonds which will last long after we as their parents are gone.

How many of us as parents, hear from our child who does not have the impactful disability, "you only care about them". As our lives are filled with therapy visits, doctor appointments and meetings with the schools, it is very important to make 1:1 time for your child who does not have a disability. This can be in small increments or even a walk in the park. It will be time your child will cherish and remember always!

Letting our children explore and use their imagination will allow their minds to expand and their sence of self worth GROW!

Sometimes when you loose a big basketball game, instead of telling a child what they could have done better, giving a supportive hug and telling them what a GREAT job they did for their team will help them see their efforts as valued encourage them to continue to try.

Sometimes infants have an idea of their own! Praising the older child for their efforts and attempts to help with the younger child will reassure them they are valued. Take a moment to explain to the older child what activities they can do with the younger child which may prevent any future uncertainty.

A parents love and support is something a child needs to see, feel and experience. In our busy lives today, it is easy to forget how much our children truly need us. Don't forget to take the meaningful time which will last a lifetime. Remember, it is most important to remember quality vs. quantity...make the time you can take with your child...TRULY COUNT!