Advocating for your child with #autism and #ADHD is a tiring and thankless task. To every parent or caregiver doing it, your emotions are valid, your words are important (as are your child’s), and I believe you and them. #AutismAwareness #education 1/x

As parents of a kid with #autism #adhd we have had to let go of so many pre-conceived ideas of how they will behave. Had to to move from an expectation of rules and obedience and compliance and “going along” to be more of a coach and co-pilot. 2/x

This can be compounded for so many of us #autism #adhd parents by the invisible nature of our child’s (dis)ability. They look “normal” but don’t comply = they are wrong/naughty/non-compliant. 3/x

Expecting “compliance” from a kid with #autism & #adhd is like expecting the child in a wheelchair to get up & stand in line like the other kids. Like the type 1 diabetic kid not to need insulin. These are not to minimise others’ experiences, but to highlight flawed thinking 4/x

#autism & #adhd are not homogenous. They are not a disease that can be treated, but they are a challenge that can be exacerbated. We learn this through our own stuff ups, & moments of joy. We learn this through our own ever shifting expectations & letting go of normal 5/x

As #autism & #adhd parents we let go of former friends because they can’t shift their expectations or our child & it’s just easier to be with people who see your kid as the amazing superhero they are, learn about them & know that after the meltdown they will still love you. 6/x

So a big Friday night cheers to all the siblings, teachers and friends of kids with #autism & #adhd who see, them, hear them & let go tof pre-conceived ideas of what they “should” be like. 7/x

And double cheers to the parents and caregivers of #autism #adhd kids. You have let go of so many things to find space for love & understanding. You constantly think for your child and yourself. The cognitive load & hyper-vigilance are enormous. I hear you & I believe you. 8/8