10 Things You Can Do During Autism Epidemic Action Month, or Any Month!

In no particular order, here are some small, simple things you can do to make a difference for individuals with autism.

1. Talk. If the opportunity presents itself, share what you know about autism with others. Let everyone know how wonderful our children are. Or let them know how difficult life can be. Or tell them we all need better insurance coverage. You will know what to say.

2. Listen. Be a sympathetic ear to other parents of special needs children. Try to understand the perspective of your child's ESE teacher. If one does not already exist, start a support group at your child's school for parents of children with special needs. Invite the teachers and administrators to attend.

3. Advocate. Help pass legislature for insurance coverage in your state. Offer to volunteer to be a parent rep at an IEP meeting for a foster child or a child whose parent needs extra help at IEP meetings.

4. Donate. Your time to babysit for another parent of a child with autism, or to volunteer at your child's school. Or if you can, donate money, preferably to a group like lend4health which provides small loand to families with children with autism in need.

5. Shop. You can help a parent just starting out on the GFCF Diet by accompanying them on their first trip to Whole Foods, Trader Joe's or your local health food store. Better yet, send them a GFCF care package of your favorites to get them started, along with a few recipes.

5. Learn. I can't tell you how much I have learned from lectures give by professionals at our local autism support groups. Is it hard to find time? Yes. But if you pick up one tip to help your child, it's worth it.

6. Teach. If you are a professional who works with children on the spectrum, offer to give a free talk at a local autism support group. (See number 5 above.) We REALLY appreciate all the help you can give us.

7. Play. I know it's really hard. Impossible, at times even, but keep trying to play with your little aspie or autie, one to one at home, in an age appropriate social skills group, and with selected NT children of sympathetic friends and relatives.

8. Pray. If you believe in a higher power, pray.

9. Believe. Believe in your child and in yourself.

10. Love. I was touched by a quote from Jenny McCarthy's mother who told her right after Evan was diagnosed, "all children respond to love." They do.

Feel free to comment here with your own ideas for positive things we can all do to help each other and our children.