When millennial parents find themselves having to juggle the whirlwind of parenthood alongside the very unique journey of raising an autistic child, the challenges are different and there’s often no rule book to work with. It’s in addition to balancing school runs, school projects, therapy sessions, and lots of school meetings that they have to continue to pour boundless love into their child as they manage the distinctive needs of their autistic kid. Modern superheroes!
At the very beginning it is typically very challenging, working to figure out managing behaviours nobody told you about, decoding sensory sensitivities and translating unique communication patterns effectively. It’s an overflowing bowl of chaos and joy.
Millennial parents of autistic children today are discovering that especially in an age where the communal spirit is naturally fading away, being a part of a support network where understanding glances are more powerful than words and prescriptions is like finding the control to the faucet under which the bowl is. The magic of community helps everything slow down a bit. Laughter is shared over tiny and humongous victories and advice flows like confetti at a celebration.
The importance of connections like these go beyond convenience; it’s the heartbeat of empathy that reassures parents they are not alone in this adventure. Finding a true sense of community is like stumbling upon treasure. The journey is fiLled with moments of laughter and confusion, punctuated by virtual high-fives and virtual hugs and countless text messages shared around therapies and managing milestones. The camaraderie found in these communities become a lifeline this group will hold as a light until every piece of the puzzle finds it place.
In this very digital age, the constant connectivity paradoxically seems to isolate us further many times, making it even more difficult to find this community. In addition to this, living in a world that often misunderstands autism can make the isolation palpable. As the children begin to hit milestones, neighbours with neurotypical children become virtual strangers, absorbed in navigating their journeys with parents who also have neurotypical children. Connecting with parents who truly “get” the journey can be as hard as it can be simple.
Thankfully, the digital age, with its paradoxical isolation has also created online spaces where parents can unite, exchange stories, advice, and encouragement. These virtual communities, though distanced by screen, provide a bridge over the isolation that accompanies raising an autistic child.
Here’s a few online communities that offer support and resources for parents with autistic children that you may want to explore:
- Patrick Speech & Languages Centre — Website: Support and care for Children and Young Adults living with Autism — Pure Souls Learning Foundation (pslcautism-ng.org)
- Autism Speaks Community — Website: https://www.autismspeaks.org/community
- Reddit — r/autism — Website: https://www.reddit.com/r/autism/
- Parenting Autistic Children with Love & Acceptance (PACLA) — Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/853000021369530/
- Autism Parents Together — Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/AutismParentsTogether/
- Autism Support Network — Website: https://www.autismsupportnetwork.com/
- Autism Parents Connect — Website: https://autismparentsconnect.mn.co/
Remember that each community has its unique atmosphere and focus, so you may explore a few to find the one(s) that best suit your vibe, needs and preferences.
Raising and loving an autistic child is a continuous journey of growth and learning. Remember you are the first unwavering advocate of their child’s potential. Through communities, we can uplift each other, inspire each other with our stories, and support the creation of a world where understanding and acceptance of people living with autism are cornerstones. As you navigate this journey, may you always find strength in the bond you share with your children and the beautiful bond of community.