attends such a large school but I didn’t have a choice. I know he would benefit tremendously from a smaller environment at a private school. The reality is that the school is so expensive that it wasn’t possible to send him. It is most unsettling but I have to be realistic in what is financially possible. This is one of the many problems faced by parents today. Socially, Ryan has a couple of friends that he sees every few weeks. They
attend different schools so conflicting schedules make it hard to make plans. At times, he wants to have friends and I constantly look for new groups and programs that he could be comfortable with. We’ve tried a variety of activities but he has not been happy with any of them. I believe that navigating his surroundings is complicated for him and it’s easier to be at home with his computer and television. It’s sad because he has so much to offer and I wish other kids would see this.
Jason is now a freshman at college. While he is definitely on the Autistic Spectrum, he is very sociable. He was very active in boy scouts, theatre and youth group during his high school years and always had a group of friends. He attends a small university and loves it. I am thrilled for him and knew it would be perfect for him. It has not been without its challenges but overall, he is doing well. Words can never express how proud I am of my kids. They have had more than their share of challenges and there were times when I was truly at the end of my rope. Parenting is challenging for
all of us and I am no different. None of us gets a free ride in life and this is no dress rehearsal. We do the best that we can with the information we have available. I believe that realizing early on in life that so much is not that important has helped me to be a better mother. I became a single parent when my boys were 7 and 4 years old and if they didn’t have three square meals a
day, they were still going to survive. If the house was a bit messy, it wasn’t a big deal. When my time was consumed with therapy schedules, school conferences and doctors appointments – all I ever wanted was for my kids to be happy and know that they were loved.
So many teachers, therapists, friends and family have helped us through the years. We could not have done it without their guidance and support. They have truly made a difference in the lives of me and my children. It is my sincere hope that with these series of articles, my book and speaking engagements that I can make a difference in your life as well.
This is the final part of a three-part series from Judy Blake. Her book, Judy’s World, is now out. She welcomes the opportunity to speak to audiences of all ages. Her speeches encourage audiences to be more empathetic and less judgmental. To book Judy as a speaker, please contact
judy@judysworld.info or visit her online at
www.judysworld.info.
North Texas Kids • August 2011 •
www.NorthTexasKids.com 27
Dr. Amber Brooks, CACCP
(469) 547-1173 14330 Midway Rd Ste 116 Dallas, TX 75244
Learn more at
www.mychildwellness.com
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