Living with a child diagnosed with autism can be challenging.  The Autism Society of America has compassionately captured the essence of this concept in the articles below.  Some are inspirational, some factual, and all are helpful.  God bless you.

The Autism Society of America
LIVING WITH AUTISM AROUND THE WORLD

Living With Autism
The demands of raising a child with autism are great, and families frequently experience high levels of stress. Recognizing and preparing yourself for the challenges that are in store will make a tremendous difference to all involved, including the parents, siblings, grandparents, extended family, and friends.

The uniqueness of each individual with autism makes the experience of raising a child \with autism different for each family But there are some consistent themes or issues that most families will want to be aware to be able to provide the best support to the individual and to family members.

The ASA has developed in-depth information on a variety of topics related to living with autism. The information below is by no means exhaustive, but it should help to equip families with some of the basic tools they may need to successfully raise a child with autism.

When you have a child with a disability, it may seem that you've been dropped in the middle of a whirlwind of information and buzzwords. You'll hear things such as inclusion, behavior modification, functional analysis, IDEA, IEP, due process, evaluation and sensory integration. There are lengthy federal regulations that need to be read and understood, and disability magazines filled with one view or another about controversial issues. Some of the decisions you'll need to make may come from areas where you don't feel adequately informed. Of these important decisions, many will be in the area of education.

Educating children with autism is a challenge for both parents and teachers
These children are individuals first and foremost with unique strengths and weaknesses. Some may be of average to above average intelligence, while others may be below average. Academic goals need to be tailored to that individual's intellectua ability and functioning level.

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