It is Not Your Fault

I want to begin by telling you something incredibly important: it is not your fault.
 
You didn't cause your child's autism.
 
You didn't do anything wrong.
 Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition and it is not something that can be attributed to anything you did or decisions you made.
 
It is critically important that you release any feelings of guilt or self-blame, as they only stand in the way of embracing the incredible journey you and your child are about to embark on.
 
Discovering that your child is on the spectrum can feel overwhelming, but it's important to know that this diagnosis does not define their potential.
 
While autism brings its own set of challenges, it also brings a world of wonderful strengths and qualities that make your child who they are.
They might have bigger emotions, difficulty with impulse control, and exhibit curiosity that is different from their peers. This is a part of their individuality, and it's something you will learn to understand and support.
 
Remember, they are not giving you a hard time; they are having a hard time.
 
Patience will become your greatest ally. Children on the spectrum often require more time to process information, learn new skills, and adapt to changes. This might mean that some milestones take longer to achieve, and that's absolutely okay.
 
Progress is a journey, not a destination.
 
Caring for your child is important, but along this journey, you cannot forget to care for yourself as well. Taking breaks, practicing self-care, and seeking moments of relaxation are essential to maintaining your well-being.
Remember, your child's diagnosis is just a part of their story, not the entirety of it. Parenting differently doesn't mean parenting inadequately; it means embracing a new way of navigating your child to their fullest potential.
 
So, stand tall, Mama. You CAN do this. Your child's happiness and your family's journey with autism can be as fulfilling and meaningful as any other path. 
 
This was written by Shannon Urquiola at Not Your Average Autism Mom.
Thank you for being part of our journey.