Just Another Wednesday – Autism Acceptance Day
The first Autism Day after my daughter’s diagnosis, I cried my eyes out over a Facebook post that said: “Every day is Autism Day for my parents.” This year, I saw a post that said: “April 2nd was Autism Acceptance Day, but in our house, it was just another Wednesday,” and I smiled.
Why did two posts — both essentially saying the same thing — bring such different reactions? The first one came when I was still drowning in grief, and the second one met me where I am now — living in acceptance.
Partnering for Protection: Working with Police to Keep My Daughter Safe
I write these words with a heavy heart, deeply shaken by the recent tragic shooting of an autistic teen by police in British Columbia. This heartbreaking incident has left a family shattered and a community in mourning. It serves as yet another painful reminder of the work still left to be done. First responders must undergo thorough, compassionate, and effective training in understanding and interacting with autistic individuals. A lack of awareness and misunderstanding should never cost a life.
Self-Care When There’s No Time: A Parent’s Survival Guide
Guest post by Farnoush Davoudi, mother of an Autistic girl. Ever felt the urge to snap at someone who says, “You need to take time for self-care?” If not, great! But if you ever do, read this: Based on personal experience, I truly believe parents of Autistic kiddos can experience… Continue Reading
Donate to a win a $400 Personal Training Gift Certificate! CRA tax donation deadline extended
ACT Give-Away $400 Gift Card Give-Away from B Fit Health Thanks to B Fit Health, donate to ACT this month for a chance to win a $400 gift card for virtual personal training! Donate now through the form on this page and be entered for a draw. If you’d like… Continue Reading
It’s Fine, I’m Fine, Everything is Fine!
Balancing gratitude with authenticity is crucial for resilience, especially in the journey of raising a child with autism. Focusing solely on gratitude can lead to emotional exhaustion when challenges are left unacknowledged, as it masks the reality of difficult experiences. A more effective approach involves embracing both struggles and moments of gratitude, allowing space for the full range of emotions. This balance fosters greater peace, self-compassion, and strength, demonstrating that resilience comes from honouring both joy and hardship.
It’s That Time of the Year…
The holidays can feel overwhelming when raising a child with autism, but the key to reclaiming the magic lies in adapting traditions to fit your family’s unique needs. By letting go of picture-perfect expectations and embracing what truly brings joy to your child, you can create a season that’s meaningful, stress-free, and entirely your own.
Report from the 2024 BC Disability Summit & BC Disability Collaborative Social Media Campaign
IN JUNE 2024, 77 participants from 43 provincial organizations, including ACT – Autism Community training, that represent children and youth with disabilities (CYD) came together in person for the first ever BC Disability Summit. We came together, stirred by a clear sense that the current system is not serving the… Continue Reading
Navigating the unknown with patience and perseverance
A parent’s path from obtaining a diagnosis to learning how to live and support an autistic child. Through patience and perseverance, a new strength—and a deeper joy—is discovered. There are no shortcuts, just steady steps forward. If you’re navigating this path, you’re not alone, and yes, you can do this.
Canada’s Autism Strategy announced, New Free Events, ACT’s Statement of Reconciliation
Autism Acceptance Month in Canada is a time to celebrate the diversity and unique strengths of the autistic community, while raising awareness about the challenges autistic people continue to face. It’s an opportunity to foster inclusion, advocate for meaningful change, and promote understanding of autism beyond awareness, focusing on acceptance and respect. By embracing neurodivergence, we can build a more inclusive society where autistic individuals are empowered to thrive, contribute, and be valued for their many strengths and who they are.
Empowering Fitness: How Home Practice Transformed Our Son’s Autism Journey
A parent’s innovative approach to fitness for their autistic son focuses on personalized, home-based activities. Using sensory equipment and creative exercises like obstacle courses and balance challenges, father and son turn challenges into growth opportunities and extend a positive relationship with physical activity and empowering their son to embrace fitness… Continue Reading