In the early years, I struggled with constant redirection and shifting. Everything felt like a monumental chore, and even leaving the house became a daunting 45-minute ordeal. However, necessity pushed me to learn the art of preplanning and redirecting, which eventually became ingrained in our way of life.
Preplanning to near-perfection may border on obsession, but it's a crucial skill for parents of children on the spectrum to maintain some level of peace and balance. The ability to shift has been one of the most significant stress reducers in our journey.
There were times when simple tasks, like going to Applebees or navigating a grocery store, seemed impossible with Levi. Yet, through perseverance and consistent effort, we slowly made progress. As Levi has grown older, the shifting has become more manageable, thanks to routines and preplanning.
While our world isn't perfect, Levi has learned to adapt to changes in plans—a skill that has been crucial in our journey. Establishing daily routines has made shifting smoother for him, contributing to a more peaceful environment for us both.
Maturity has undoubtedly played a role in this process, along with the importance of stability and consistency. Levi, like all children, relies heavily on stability, and maintaining consistency has been key.
The hardest part of this journey is the discipline required to keep shifting and redirecting, trusting that each challenge will eventually become surmountable. It's about winning in the little battles, knowing that these victories pave the way for larger successes down the road.
In the complex puzzle of autism parenting, constant shifting and redirecting are essential pieces. It's through these small victories that we gain insight and strength, ultimately shaping a brighter future for our children.
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