In 2022, autism is diagnosed in about 1 out of 54 children in the United States.  The Autism and Development Disabilities Monitoring Network reported the autism prevalence has increased 178% since 2000.  It is important for parents of children with autism to find support from those who understand what it is like. According to Anthony Bronaugh M.Ed., BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst), parents need support from other parents of children diagnosed with autism. Although being a parent of a child with autism can be a challenge, an emotional support group can provide parents with the support and resources they need. What are a few of the benefits of participating in a parent support group that specifically focuses on parents with children with autism?

Emotional Support From Those Who Understand

One of the top benefits Mr. Bronaugh wants parents to know is that the emotional support of those who understand is critical. One of the biggest reasons why parents in this situation have a hard time, is they feel like nobody understands what they are going through. When parents decide to join an emotional support group for parents of children with autism, they immediately surround themselves with a network of people with similar experiences. Everyone in that group has a child with autism, and they can provide emotional support that other parents need. This type of emotional support can make it easier for them to get through a difficult time.

Others To Bounce Ideas Off Of

He also believes these groups are a place for parents to bounce ideas off of others. There are a lot of parenting challenges that parents of children with autism will face, and sometimes, they might not know what to do. In a lot of situations, the best advice comes directly from other parents who have also been in that situation. They know what works for their kids, and they can make recommendations that might work for other parents in the group. This is beneficial not only to the parents, but also to their children.  This includes resources such as barbers, beauticians, doctors, dentists, schools and babysitters.

A Chance To See The Positives of the Situation

Although there are many challenges that parents of children with autism will face, these obstacles can be positive with the right support and resources. It can sometimes be difficult to find activities where both the parent and child feel comfortable. However, embrace and do not resist the process!  Now, with access to an emotional support group specifically for parents of children with autism, parents can hear about the fun, silly, enjoyable stories that other parents have experienced every day. This will give them something to look forward to, which can be beneficial.  With the right perspective and support, these activities can be fun, fulfilling adventures, where parents do not see the “impossible” but they see that “I’m possible!  What does that mean?  It means that with the right support and resources through support groups, children on the spectrum will know that they have the support of not just their parents, but a community as well.

Find Emotional Support Groups for Parents of Children With Autism

These are just a few of the benefits of support groups for parents with children identified with ASD. It is important for all parents in this situation to find a support group where they feel a sense of belonging, significance and fun.  AB Education & Behavior Consulting LLC will begin sponsoring parent support groups on a monthly basis in Toledo, Ohio beginning July 27, 2022 at Sylvania Playland in Sylvania, Ohio from 5-7pm.  For more information or to register for the event, visit https://abeducationbehaviorconsultingllc.com/blog.