Thursday, August 28, 2008
By: Carin Yavorcik

An excerpt from "Do-si-Do with Autism" by Sarah Stup

1) Be Open
With new associations at school come new perspectives—welcome them.

2) Relate
Do you recall how shocked, sad, and overwhelmed you felt at the prospect of parenting a child with autism? On some level, your child’s new school staff may be experiencing these feelings. Give them time to embrace this new journey.

3) Show respect
Demonstrate the same respect for teachers and staff you want your child to have for them, and for you.

4) Help
Be a resource for new staff about your child, if possible, not a critic.

5) Listen carefully
The child you know so well may be quite different in the school environment. When you’re told something about your child that seems out of character, ask questions—don’t make assumptions.

6) Be easy on yourself
Just as your child relates well to some school staff and not others, so will you. Don’t blame yourself, but make the best of it.

7) Support other methods
Programs you’ve chosen suit your child and your family’s style. Know that each child with autism and each family is different. Their choices are right for them.

8) Pass it on!
Remember the services and programs your child enjoys today are in place because parents before you worked hard to get them. Thank them by continuing their efforts. Find ways to advocate for all children.

9) Keep trying
When returning from an “unsuccessful” Individualized Educational Program (IEP) meeting, give yourself a rest, re-group, and try again. Never give up. Never.

10) Most important
On the other hand, don’t let strong advocacy activities overshadow your commitment to a satisfying family life. People will tell you meeting educational needs is important, but you know having a close, happy family is your child’s greatest need.

Excerpted from an upcoming CD to accompany the children’s book Do-si-Do with Autism by Sarah Stup. Learn more about Do-si-Do with Autism at http://www.sarahstup.com/.