Awesome Autism Blog

As a blogger and parent of children with disabilities (ADHD counts even if the federal government won't offer services for it), I currently follow several blogs concerning the daily challenges faced by parents of intellectually disabled children. I address special needs issues from time to time on my own blog as well. So, since I am immersed in this SpEd world, I want to share some of my insights gleaned from a particular blog: Yeah. Good Times.

I wouldn’t normally read a blog so faithfully that has such heavy doses of swearing, etc. throughout its pages, but this mom has a way about her that is endearing. I came to be acquainted with Jill through Twitter and it was all over from there. Her honest wit charmed me.

First and foremost, Jill is a great example of advocacy and loving the child no matter what—even when it was just said (wrote on a blog for the world to read) how much a behavior and all its entails might drive her mad.  I have learned a great deal about what it means to step up to the advocacy plate that I did not realize people have had to go through. Don't get me wrong, I've had my fair share of messed up situations to deal with, but I only had my experiences from which to draw until meeting up with Ms. Jill.

My perspective has also been enlightened on what I have tolerated but probably should not; hence, I have changed my stance on when and when not to say something to those who obviously do not have children with a disability.  Along with parental discernment, more than once her words have guided me to understand some of the teaching concepts I am learning as an educator. I believe I will be a more capable general education teacher because of how she has enriched my views and understanding of what parents go through each day to help their child feel successful in the school environment. 

Her unfettered display of humanity provides a sense of community for which I am grateful. Being a parent of children with special needs can be challenging because we get feeling so alone and isolated unless we find/create a circle of support. I have joined in her online community a few times, and when I had a rough spot (Heartbreak Hotel: Lunchroom Edition), she put the word out and her community came to me. I felt so blessed in my misery. Her taking that bit of time to share my words caused a wave of encouragement that continues on.

By reading blogs, such as Yeah. Good Times., I have been able to raise my level of awareness when I didn’t think I could raise it any higher. 

Pro Tip:
If swearing and drunkenness is offensive to you, just scan past those parts like I do and you still get all the benefits of her wit and wisdom. She is decidedly worth it.