I am always happy to sit down and chat with parents and caregivers about anything related to Autism or children with special needs. I enjoy learning about the new things they are able to do because of research and technology, and am mesmerized by their passion and commitment to their children.
I often sound like a broken record saying ‘wow, back when my kids were little we didn’t have anything like that’. But with all this new technology and ways to interact with the world online come some new questions that I honestly wasn’t sure how to answer.
The questions are something like “how do I know what is legit?” or “how do I know this isn’t a scam?” or similarly “how do I know they know what they’re doing?” (referring mostly to techniques or providers). No matter how the question is phrased, it carries a lot of weight or pressure because it is about our children. How do we know who to trust?
There is no “Yelp” or “Trip Advisor” for raising children
I haven’t found a place to review the different types of devices that are out there and which ones are really best for each unique child. I haven’t found a great resource for knowing if this particular speech technique works best with boys, girls, kids who are shy, or have an above average IQ. Wouldn’t it be great if it was like the form kids fill out to find a roommate in college? Likes hugs ✓, loves m&m’s as a reward ✓, goes to bed early ✓ , won’t eat crust on their bread ✓, etc.
Since there really isn’t a magic formula, and since some kids like crust on their bread, we have to resort to one of my personal favorites, word of mouth. Do you know that on average it takes seeing something seven times before we commit to buying it? Not things you get each week at the grocery store, but things like decorations for your home, or new clothes. Sometimes one or two of those seven contacts are word of mouth. A friend saw a movie or show that was great and suggested that you watch it. Your family member got new shoes that are the most comfortable ever. Simple things that might be your first exposure to something. Word of mouth is really important!
Back to all that great technology out there
One of those is social media. I’ve written before about some of the downsides of social media (mental health for one). In cases like this however it can be really beneficial to get your questions answered. I always hope that the parents I connect with are in some caregiver groups for the challenges that come with special needs kids. Ask your community, Do you know about this technique? Are you familiar with this device or type of treatment? Anyone used or heard of this medication, or has anyone used this doctor?
Don’t be shy. Get the information you need, however you need to get it. You are advocating for your child, both you and they deserve to have the best information out there.
