My Child Has Autism

Television and movies are the extent of my knowledge about autism and Asperger's Syndrome. I've been led to believe that people with autism are either like Rain Man (an autistic savant) or less gifted, empathy-denied individuals loved by their parents who understand their child cannot love them back.

Boy, have I been misled.

I learned much more about the difficulties and joys of being the parent of an autistic child after viewing Leah Kelley talking about her experience as a special education teacher and parent of her autistic son. Ms. Kelley was a teacher before she became her son's parent, and "sitting on the opposite side of the IEP table" came as a shock to her. Nevertheless, she's spent the past years actively seeking the proper social, educational, emotional and governmental support for her students and her child.

She's also the author of 30 Days of Autism, a blogging "project designed to promote social understanding and offer a glimpse into the perspectives of those whose lives are touched by ASD [Autism Spectrum Disorders]". Leah describes herself as someone who advocates "for both children and adults who experience the world differently."

Please watch this interview with Leah Kelley, M.Ed., and share your comments below.

Share Your Experience With Autism

Are you or your child affected by autism? How did you arrive at the diagnosis? How does having autism affect your family? We invite you to call us and share your thoughts and experience with us at 1-888-883-8045. (Info about Sharing Your Mental Health Experience here.) You can also leave comments below.