parenting Archives

Things that Parents of Autistic Children are Sick of Hearing

I often hear what’s meant to be “helpful advice” usually from well meaning strangers. And while most of the time I can at least appreciate the fact that they’re trying to help; it’s really just getting on my nerves. I’m certainly not against receiving advice, just that when it comes to my autistic child, I really don’t want to hear it. I understand, of course, that on occasion there is good advice. But other times, it’s just not what I want to hear. So here are just a few things that this parent of an autistic child is sick of hearing. And if you’re looking for ways to support a family that has a child with autism, please check out my autism resources and inspiration….

Family Life

How To Handle Stubborn Toddlers and Maintain Your Sanity

ByKori

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Chances are likely, as your toddler grows and their vocabulary expands, that they’re going to add the word “no” or maybe “nope” along with the side-to-side head shake. Maybe they’ll even add in a foot stomp, cross their arms over their chest, or put their pudgy little hands on their hips. And then, before you know it, you’re in a stand off with a miniature (albeit less verbal) version of yourself. But is there a right or wrong way to handle stubborn toddlers? The struggle is all too real. And it occurs daily, sometimes multiple times a day. Maybe even multiple times within the span of an hour if things aren’t going their way. It’s one of those things that parents have been dealing with…

Being a blended family is a part of our identity because it's who we are. But how then, as a the unofficial step mom in their lives, do I handle Mother's Day as the other mother?

Family Life

Handling Mother’s Day as the Other Mother in a Blended Family

ByKori

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Kyle is my other half, as cliche as it sounds, it’s true. Though even that phrase isn’t quite how I would describe our relationship because we’re both complete as people; just that we’re so much more together. I didn’t need him to complete my life, no one should ever need someone to feel complete. That’s something that comes from within, or at least that’s how I’ve always viewed it. Rather, I would say that our relationship has brought the balance, stability, challenge, security… It’s brought so much richness and fulfillment. And aren’t I just starting to sound like a Hallmark movie opening? Trust me, that was not my intent since this post has absolutely nothing to do with romance. This is about being a blended…

Family Life

How to Effectively Discipline Your Toddler Without Yelling

ByKori

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Parenting a toddler can be challenging. Especially when you factor in that they have a limited vocabulary and may have limited ways to express their emotions. Sometimes just figuring out your toddler can be a challenge within itself. You may find yourself in the midst of several power struggles with your toddler daily. But how does one go about disciplining a threenager? And is it really possible to discipline a toddler? The short answer is yes. It has to do with your approach, and here’s a hint: yelling at the toddler who’s probably already yelling at you, won’t help. Let’s talk about: How to discipline your toddler How to effectively discipline without yelling or hitting How to Discipline Your Toddler Without Yelling Disciplining a child…

Parenting an Autistic Child

Why Use Sensory Boxes or Sensory Bins for Special Needs?

ByKori

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Sensory bins, or sensory boxes, can be quite beneficial for children with special needs. But why is that? Whether you are using them at home or in school, here’s how to incorporate sensory bins for special education needs and purposes. And honestly? If a craft challenged, mess fearing mom like me can embrace the idea of sensory boxes and sensory bins? Anyone can. I hate the mess and honestly, I’m not a huge fan of creating or touching slime. I may have a few sensory issues myself that need to be addressed. Why Use Sensory Bins for Special Education Needs? Sweet B uses sensory bins quite a bit at school. They provide her with a unique opportunity to experience play without having to be fully…

Parenting an Autistic Child

Addressing Autism and Divorce: What To Do When Your Marriage Crumbles

ByKori

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Why do people divorce when they have children with special needs? How do I divorce my spouse when we have an autistic child? How do I learn to parent an autistic child on my own? Dear friend, these were just some of the things I struggled with when I realized that my marriage was falling apart. This is my story, just one of many, when it comes to divorce with an autistic child. Is the divorce rate higher for parents of autistic children? I would be highly inclined to tell you, yes- it is. Sweet B’s father and I were married for 12 years. As of 2016, we were legally separated and as of 2018, our divorce was finalized. At the time, neither one of…