I know when Kyle was being diagnosed with autism and throughout his treatment process that I could not have gotten by without the support of my family, friends and community. Seriously – there were days where I didn’t know where to turn or what to do. Our support system (also known as my angels) were the ones to give us strength when we thought we didn’t have any of it left.
That’s really why I started Kyle’s Treehouse – to give back and provide support to all those touched with autism. And because 1 out of every 150 children is diagnosed with autism, there’s a good chance that just about everyone knows someone with autism. Due to that, I’ve been often asked – what can I do to help? I was asked that by my “angels” when I was going through treatment with Kyle – and I am asked that today as someone who gives guidance to others.
There are things you can do to help those you know who are dealing with autism. Here are some suggestions – some simple suggestions – that can make a world of difference.
Ask if you can help with errands – offer to pick up groceries, prescriptions, dry cleaning or other odds and ends when you go out shopping.
Offer to have your kids come to the house and play, which can with help social interaction.
Donate toys, videos or other play equipment you no longer need.
Research autism – the more you know, the more you can understand what this family may face.
(If you know the family well and they are looking at treatments) Help the family check into treatment options – see what others are saying about them to get that personal insight.
Find local support groups that might be a good resource for support (both emotionally and financially).
Offer to baby-sit – we all need date nights or just time for ourselves to get some fresh air.
Find out if there’s something that the family member with autism likes to do—something they may even find soothing –and share in that activity with them. For Kyle, he spent a lot of time on art, specifically design, and still does (see Kyle’s tee-shirt line).
Donate money to an organization dedicated to autism. The donation may not go directly to the family, but they are part of the larger autism community that benefit from the work these organizations do.
And, most importantly, be a shoulder to lean on.
What does autism mean to us today? It means lending a helping hand. What about you?
Best,
Jenifer