Hi everyone!

I’m Dalisse, and I’m the proud mom of two amazing boys, Adrián (10) and Guillermo (4), who are both on the autism spectrum. As parents of two boys with autism, we know social gatherings can be a source of both excitement and anxiety. We want our kids to have fun and make friends, but navigating the sensory overload and social complexities can be daunting. Our worries extend beyond what gift to take; we’re concerned about the entire event, from the lead-up to the aftermath.

We know social gatherings are a great opportunity to show our children the benefits of having friends and a good time. But for some children, this isn’t always the case.

A Parent’s Perspective: The “What-ifs”

As parents, it’s natural to worry about how our children will handle social situations. We might ask ourselves:

  • Will they feel overwhelmed by the noise and crowds?
  • Will they be able to understand and follow social cues, especially in games with specific rules?
  • Will they be able to make friends and have fun?

These “what-ifs” can be stressful, but it’s important to remember that every child with autism is unique. What works for one child may not work for another. We’re fortunate that our children are being included in parties, so we need to prepare them to enjoy and have tons of fun.

A Child’s Perspective: The Anxiety

For many children with autism, social gatherings can be a source of anxiety. They may worry about:

  • Sensory overload: Loud noises, bright lights, and unfamiliar smells can be overwhelming.
  • Social expectations: Understanding and following social rules can be challenging.
  • Uncertainty: The unpredictability of social events can be stressful.

Every Child is Different

It’s important to remember that every child with autism is different. What works for one child may not work for another. Some children may thrive at social gatherings, while others may find them overwhelming. The key is to find what works best for your child and to support them in their own way.

Tips for Supporting Your Child at Social Gatherings

  • Plan Ahead: Discuss the event with your child beforehand and provide them with a visual schedule.
  • Create a Sensory-Friendly Environment: If possible, request a quiet area where your child can take breaks if needed.
  • Practice Social Skills: Role-play social situations to help your child feel more prepared.
  • Celebrate Small Victories: Focus on the progress, not perfection. Every positive interaction is a step in the right direction.
  • Consider Social Skills Groups: If your child struggles with social interactions, consider enrolling them in a social skills group. These groups can provide a safe and supportive environment for children to learn and practice social skills.

Remember, you are not alone!

Raising children on the spectrum comes with its own set of challenges, but it’s also an incredibly rewarding journey.

My New Book: Party Time for Adrián!

Cover of 'Party Time for Adrián: Making Friends One by One', a children's book about social skills and friendship for kids with autism.

Inspired by Adrián’s experiences, I’ve written a children’s book titled “Party Time for Adrián: Making Friends One by One.” This heartwarming story follows Adrián as he navigates a birthday party with the help of his friends, supportive family, and a few key social strategies.

“Party Time for Adrián” is a valuable resource for parents, caregivers, and educators. It helps children on the spectrum understand and prepare for social situations, promoting inclusion and friendship.

Check out the book here: [Link to your book]

Let’s Connect!

Share your experiences and tips in the comments below! I’d love to hear from other parents and caregivers.

Together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment where our children with autism can thrive socially.

TEA-mo,

Dalisse