Gifts for Relaxation and Self-Care:

1. Weighted Blanket: The gentle pressure of a weighted blanket can provide calming deep pressure stimulation, promoting relaxation and better sleep. https://amzn.to/4d5bVX0
2. Essential Oil Diffuser: Create a soothing atmosphere with a vital oil diffuser. Lavender, chamomile, and bergamot are known for their calming properties. https://amzn.to/4aGaInv
3. Noise-Canceling Headphones: A little peace can go a long way. Noise-canceling headphones allow moms to enjoy quiet time or listen to calming music. https://amzn.to/4deZVCe
4. Subscription Box: Treat her to a subscription box tailored to her interests, like a book club, a beauty box, or a coffee subscription. https://amzn.to/3Uz2PcT

Gifts for Practical Support:

1. Planner or Organizer: Help her stay on top of appointments, therapy sessions, and daily tasks with a planner or organizer designed for busy moms. Look for one with sections for to-do lists, meal planning, and essential contact information. https://amzn.to/3UduGyX
2. Sensory Fidget Toys: For moms who enjoy sensory stimulation, consider a set of fidget toys. These can be helpful for stress relief and focus.
3. Audible Subscription: Give the gift of audiobooks. Moms can listen while commuting, doing chores, or taking a moment. https://amzn.to/3W8hZYS
4. Meal Kit Service: Take the stress out of meal planning with a subscription to a meal kit service. Choose one with options that cater to dietary restrictions and preferences.

Gifts for Connection and Inspiration:

1. Book on Autism: A book written by an autistic author or a parent of an autistic child can offer valuable insights and support. https://amzn.to/3UhKDUC
2. Jewelry with an Autism Awareness Symbol: A beautiful necklace, bracelet, or pair of earrings with the puzzle piece symbol can be a subtle and meaningful way to show support and raise awareness. https://amzn.to/3JxV6X5

Gifts like these aren’t just things; they are gestures of understanding, compassion, and support. They remind moms like me that we aren’t alone in this journey. Each thoughtful gift says, “I see you, I appreciate you, and I’m with you.“

Navigating the Unknown: Saar’s Path to Adulthood

Adulthood, typically a time of newfound freedom and exploration, holds a different essence when you’re the parent of an autistic child. For Saar, it’s not about a sudden surge of independence but rather a series of deliberate, small steps toward self-sufficiency. Our journey is joint exploration, guided by hope and charted with patience.

Saar’s interaction with the world is distinctive, and we celebrate unique milestones. His first independent errand, managing his time, and articulating his needs are our victories, brimming our

hearts with pride. Each step he takes towards autonomy is a celebration of his bravery and perseverance, showcasing the remarkable person he is evolving into.

Finding Joy in the Simplicity of Routine

Amid these transitions, our daily routines stand as comforting pillars. There’s an undeniable beauty and reassurance in the simplicity and predictability of our day-to-day life. Whether it’s the meticulous way Saar prepares his breakfast or our evening strolls filled with his unique insights, these moments are the fabric of our existence.

What the world might see as ordinary, we embrace as our triumphs. These routines offer Saar tranquility and provide me with comfort. They are silent victories, affirmations of a life lived with autism but not overshadowed by it.

Embracing Each Moment with Love and Empathy

Through Saar, I’ve learned to see the world in a new light. His perspective turns the mundane into the extraordinary, teaching me daily to appreciate the small wonders – the design in leaves, the rhythm of rain, the feel of different fabrics. His world is a tapestry of details, and I am blessed to be part of his journey.

Our experience with autism is not about ‘us versus the world’; it’s about embracing and understanding the beauty in our differences. It’s a celebration of the little things, the daily routines, the quiet moments of ‘being.’

To You, Dear Reader

Whether you’re on a similar path or seeking understanding, those reading know that joy in routine isn’t about limiting life but cherishing it. It’s realizing that profound joys often lie in the simplest of moments.

As we continue to navigate the complexities of adulthood with autism, I am constantly reminded of the immense strength and love found in embracing life in all its diversity. Saar’s journey is a beautiful tapestry woven with resilience, growth, and happiness. As his mother and greatest supporter, I cheer for him at every turn.

Thank you for being part of our story and journey. Your support and understanding are invaluable to us.

With heartfelt thanks,

Amit

P.S. To those on this journey, remember you’re not alone. Reach out, share your story, and continue to celebrate every small victory together.

As we approach the end of yet another year on our extraordinary journey with Saar, the holiday season engulfs us in a whirlwind of emotions. It’s a time of jubilation, indeed, but also a moment of profound introspection as we contemplate the phenomenal growth we have witnessed in Saar and how it profoundly impacts our own festivities.

Saar’s Growth and Its Joyful Impact

Saar’s newfound interest in baking has brought a delightful twist to our holiday traditions this year. I recall a recent evening when Saar, with flour on his nose and a beaming smile, proudly presented us with his first batch of cookies. His meticulous attention to detail, once a challenge, became his strength in decorating each cookie uniquely. *This simple activity, a departure from our routine, shows his remarkable adaptability and growth, making *this holiday season even more special for *all of us.

Creating a Sensory-Friendly Holiday Environment: Practical Tips

1. Subdued Decorations: Opt for less overwhelming decorations. Soft, warm lights instead of flashing ones and minimal but meaningful adornments can create a calming atmosphere.
2. Quiet Corners: Designate a quiet area in your home where anyone can retreat if the festivities become overwhelming. A comfortable chair with a favorite book or toy can be a simple yet effective sanctuary.
3. Familiar Foods: Include familiar and preferred foods in your holiday meals to cater to sensory sensitivities and ensure everyone enjoys the feast.

Inclusive Celebrations: Making Gatherings Autism-Friendly

1. Communicate with Guests: Before any gathering, communicate with your guests about the specific needs of your loved one with autism. This promotes understanding and prepares them for any necessary accommodations.
2. Flexible Itinerary: Keep your event schedule loose. Allow room for breaks, and be ready to adapt activities based on your loved one’s comfort level.
3. Involvement in Planning: Involve your autistic family member in the planning process. This can be as simple as letting them choose a movie to watch or a game to play, making them feel included and respected.

The Significance of New Traditions

Embracing new traditions has been a cornerstone of our celebrations. For instance, our ‘cookie baking evening’ is now an annual event. These traditions are more than just activities; they give Saar a sense of belonging and stability during the holiday chaos. They are our way of cherishing the present while creating lasting memories, reinforcing our family’s unique bond.

The lessons we’ve learned from adapting our holiday celebrations extend far beyond the festive season as we move forward. They remind us of the immense value of flexibility, understanding, and embracing the incredible diversity in the way each member of our family experiences joy and togetherness.

I sincerely hope our heartfelt story resonates with and inspires other families to discover their distinctive path to a joyful and inclusive holiday season. May your celebrations overflow with boundless love, profound understanding, and cherished moments that create lifelong memories.

I wish you and your loved ones the happiest of Holidays and a New Year filled with joy, laughter, and warmth.

With heartfelt love and deep warmth,

Amit

I invite you to glimpse our home and discover how we have created a comforting and nurturing space for Saar. As a high-functioning individual with autism, it has been a journey filled with love, learning, and profound understanding to create an environment that caters to his unique needs.

Upon Saar’s initial diagnosis, a wave of emotions washed over me – fear, confusion, and a strong desire to provide the best possible support. I’ve invested countless hours researching, consulting with professionals, and listening to Saar’s input to aid in this endeavor. Through this process, I’ve discovered that an autism-friendly environment is not a one-size-fits-all solution but a journey of trial and error, continuous learning, and adaptation.

Understanding Sensory Sensitivities

One of the most significant challenges for Saar was his sensory sensitivities. Autistic individuals often experience the world more intensely than others. What might seem like a gentle hum to us can sound like a roar to them. We took these sensitivities into account when designing our home environment.

We began with soundproofing his bedroom, installing heavy curtains and rugs to absorb noise. We also kept our house relatively quiet, minimizing unnecessary loud sounds. Finally, we invested in noise-canceling headphones for Saar for times when the outside world was too noisy.

Lighting was another aspect we needed to adjust. Saar is sensitive to bright, harsh lights, so we made sure to have soft, adjustable lighting in his room. We also installed blackout blinds for him to control the amount of natural light coming into his space.

Creating a Safe Space

We decided to allocate some of his room to his interests to fulfill this need. Saar has always been a lover of predictability and routine, and creating a personal, safe space for him was essential. So, we dedicated a corner of his room to his interests. This corner, filled with his favorite books, puzzles, and action figures, acts as a sanctuary when he needs a break from the world.

This space is his, and we respect it. If he retreats there, we understand that he needs some time to himself and give him that space. Understanding and respecting his boundaries have helped him feel secure and comfortable in his home.

Structured Routine and Visual Aids

Saar thrives on routine. Having a structured way provides him with a sense of security and predictability. We keep an extensive, color-coded visual schedule in our kitchen that outlines our daily and weekly activities. This schedule helps Saar prepare for what’s coming next and reduces anxiety around unexpected events.

Flexibility and Patience

Despite the importance of routine, we’ve also learned the necessity of flexibility. Not everything goes as planned, and we’ve had to learn to adapt. If Saar is having a tough day and needs to skip an activity, we allow it. We’ve learned that sometimes, it’s better to adjust our plans than to insist on sticking to the schedule at the expense of Saar’s well-being.

Communication

Another critical aspect we’ve focused on is improving communication. Saar sometimes struggles with expressing his emotions and needs verbally. To support him, we’ve used various communication tools such as visual aids, simple sign language, and even apps designed to facilitate communication for autistic individuals.

Inclusion in Decisions

Saar is 17, and he is eager to be more independent. So, we’ve made it a point to include him in decisions regarding his environment. Whether choosing new paint for his room or deciding on a new piece of furniture, his input is valued and respected. This has boosted his self-confidence and given him a sense of ownership over his space.

Understanding and Acceptance

Above all, the most crucial aspect of creating an autism-friendly environment is fostering an atmosphere of understanding and acceptance. So, we’ve made it a point to educate ourselves and our family about autism, Saar’s unique needs and strengths, and the beauty in his worldview. We’ve learned that autism is not something to be ‘fixed’ but a part of Saar that should be accepted and celebrated.

Closing Thoughts

Reflecting on our journey, I realize that while we’ve made our home a safe space for Saar, the process has also transformed us. We’ve become more patient, more understanding, and more appreciative of the little things in life.

We’ve learned that our job is not to change Saar but to support and provide him with an environment where he can thrive just as he is. And while it hasn’t always been easy, watching Saar grow, learn, and smile in his space has made every effort worthwhile.

I hope sharing our journey might help another parent in the same position we were in years ago. I want you to know that you are not alone, and while the journey may seem daunting at first, the rewards are immeasurable.

Remember, creating an autism-friendly environment is less about making physical changes to your home and more about creating an atmosphere of love, acceptance, and understanding. And believe me, your child will feel that love, and in their unique way, they will let you know how much it means to them.

Until next time,

Amit

I hope this message finds you well. As you may know, my life with my son Saar, a high-functioning autistic 17-year-old, is full of discoveries, joys, and lessons. Today, I would like to share a touching discovery with you: a film titled “See Me As I Am.“

This powerful film tells the coming-of-age story of a teenage girl named Rima, who, like Saar, is on the autism spectrum. Watching Rima’s journey, I was struck by how closely it mirrored our experiences, including the dreams, challenges, and triumphs Saar and I have encountered together.

I understand that many of you may have experiences with autism, whether as parents, teachers, or friends. But, even if you’re new to learning about autism, I believe Rima’s story will resonate with you, just as it did with us. So, grab a warm drink, get comfortable, and let me tell you about Rima and her aspirations to do things her friends do, which is a shared desire I have seen in Saar’s eyes repeatedly.

As any parent of a child with autism knows, achieving these dreams can be challenging due to the unique obstacles that an autism diagnosis can present. Like Rima, Saar has faced barriers but continues striving towards his goals.

The film follows Rima as she navigates her education in a special needs class with her best friend, Sarah. Unfortunately, the picture it paints is all too familiar: limited options, closed doors, and moments of triumph and joy. Saar has also found friendship and support in his special education journey. I am endlessly grateful for the companions who have stood by him.

One of the highlights of Rima’s story is the unwavering support from her mother, Fatme, who encourages her to pursue her dreams. As a mother, I can relate to Fatme’s experiences. Similarly, I have always encouraged Saar to reach for the stars and let nothing, not even his diagnosis, limit his ambitions.

As Rima nears her 18th birthday, she needs to develop independence and pave her path, despite her diagnosis.s. As Saar approaches this age, we are also preparing for this transition. Although it brings fear and excitement, witnessing Rima’s journey gives me hope for Saar’s future.

In sharing Rima’s story, I hope to highlight the strength, courage, and determination of individuals with autism. Their journeys may be challenging, but they are also filled with moments of triumph and joy. As parents, friends, and allies, we can support them in their journey, celebrate their victories, and help them to realize their dreams.

In closing, I want to remind you that each individual with autism, like Rima and Saar, has a unique story. So let’s take the time to listen, understand, and appreciate these stories. After all, they teach us about resilience, Love, and the beauty of diversity in this world.

With Love,
Amit