Cindy is a mom of two boys; Nicholas (15) and Rylan (11). She and her husband, Neal, raise their family in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta. Rylan was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in 2013. Cindy and I discussed her experience with her son’s diagnosis and how things have changed over the years. Kathy: Tell me a […]
Kathy
Scared about having another child?
My husband and I often find ourselves talking about how grateful we are that autism wasn’t on our radar when we decided to have a third child. We were really naive about child development, and it wasn’t until our son’s 4-year check-up that his pediatrician suggested we pursue an autism diagnosis. At that time, I […]
Disability Parenting: My Experience So Far
When our pediatrician first suggested pursuing an autism diagnosis for our son, I was floored. It was such an overwhelming time for me as a young mother. I didn’t know the first thing about autism, or where to turn to learn about it. That was five years ago now. We aren’t far into the journey, […]
My Thoughts on the Autism Speaks Controversy
When I started to learn about autism, one thing that came up constantly in my searches was the charity, Autism Speaks. Controversy surrounds what I always thought was a wholesome brand. Many people take great issue with the largest autism charity in North America, due to the problematic way they have approached the conversation around […]
We’re Back in Lockdown
Where I live in Alberta, we have been put back into lockdown. I understand that I have a lot of privilege and the lockdown does not affect me in a major way. Believe me when I say that I am incredibly grateful for that. My husband and I comment daily about how lucky our family […]
Pandemic Parenting Series on Motherly
Motherly has started a Pandemic Parenting series, profiling mothers about how the pandemic has affected their families. I recently spoke with them to discuss the changes our family has experienced. You can check it out here. Sharing our stories is one of the most powerful way to connect with one another. It breaks down barriers, […]
Respectful Parenting with Robin’s Nest
Last week I had the pleasure of discussing a respectful parenting approach with Carly from Robin’s Nest. The Robin’s Nest team is on a mission to empower children to be ambassadors of their own learning; respect each child by trusting their innate ability to be a capable contributing citizen; and collaborate by building meaningful relationships with […]
My Son’s Diagnosis Drove Me To Grief and Denial
Today is World Autism Awareness Day. This day always reminds me of how much growth I’ve experienced in the past few years. I never thought I would open up about my son’s diagnosis — and I sure as hell never thought I would be writing about my journey on the internet! But, when he was […]
Building Autism Support Worker Relationships
The relationship with your autism support worker is an important one. Here are a few tips to make the best of it.
Sensory Play for Autism
Sensory play is an important part of child development. It can be so simple!
