We’re in the family room today talking about autism siblings. You know, the other kids in your house who you want so badly to be okay through all of the ups and downs in your home life? Well, it is possible for them to survive and thrive even the most chaotic of homes.
In this episode, Janeen shares the experiences of her own daughter, Rebekah, and reflects on her journey of motherhood; the ups, downs, mistakes and even triumphs.
In this episode you will discover:
- What Janeen learned about herself during her parenting journey of 21 years.
- Seven things you can give the other children in your house to ensure that they thrive.
- How choices can help your child’s sense of self-efficacy.
- Why being real is better than being perfect.
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Previous sibling episode mentioned: Interview with Janeen’s daughter, Rebekah.
Show Notes
7 Things To Give The Autism Sibs In Your Home:
- Clear Expectations: This includes defining the term “fairness” as well as setting rules for how your children treat one another.
- Control Through Choices: When kids have control over their personal space and choices about how they want to be involved in autism, their anxiety lessens.
- Time: Mommy or daddy dates are a great way to give your child the extra attention they crave.
- Realistic Expectations; Be aware of your sib’s developmental stages which could mean they will not have a complete understanding of the situation until much later in life.
- Communication; Invite your child to “check in” from time to time and make sure their needs are being met.
- Validation: Validate their experience and their feelings. This doesn’t mean you agree with everything they say, but it does mean is that they are free to have their feelings, regardless of what they are.
- Give your children a REAL parent rather than a perfect one: When you are REAL instead of perfect, you are modeling for both your children, what it looks like to be a healthy person.
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