Since I live in a small community in California, we unfortunately don't have a resource like that and it is badly needed. I often thought of starting one myself, the county and advocates I've been in touch with warn me not to try to fix the community but, rather, take care of my son. Sounds like a money issue, you think? Well, if the community knew the symptoms of autism, and what the schools have done to help autistic children achieve independence, they would be furious! They are keeping them wards of the county. There is no early intervention here. They treat them like they are mentally ret*d instead of trying to communicate with them via alternative interests like using computers, pets for therapy, audio ear phones to block out the noise, or music! There is so much that needs to be done to educate the public and the ignorant parents that can't educate themselves on how to deal with autism. The county regional centers own homes to put the kids up and have 24 hour care providers with minimal education and experience to baby sit these kids, and try to get them to take care of themselves. It is so sad. So much needs to be done, you just don't know where to start. I'd start by putting up posters of all the beautiful children conflicted with autism. I'd show their gifts, and that they really do understand us though they don't know how to show us. That they are frustrated and need help adapting to their environment and that they are very sensative people. I wish you encouragement and faith in your journey.
21 Mar 2007, 5:25 pm
