Navigating the complicated matrix of options and understanding one’s rights can frequently be a harrowing process for caregivers of an autistic child. Those in receipt of a new autism diagnosis seldom have a clear set of steps to undertake, frozen with grief and shock. Even those who have had their children’s diagnosis in hand for years can find garnering support, even though it may be mandated by law, a frustrating web of bureaucracy.
Areva Martin comes with answers. In her book The Everyday Advocate: How to Stand Up for Your Autistic Child, she lays out a means for parents to better grapple and fight for their children’s rights. A lawyer by profession and mother of a son with autism, Martin’s book sets aside the debate of the causes of autism and instead digs into the much needed topic of services identification and classroom and medical care evaluation. Each section is broken down into easily understandable sections with references, checklists and summaries at the end of each chapter.
The book is divided into three main parts. The first area addresses getting a diagnosis, working through the shock/grieving process and the elements of self-advocacy. The second section focuses on personal advocacy, avoiding isolation and balancing your career while advocating for your autistic child. Finally, the last section details public advocacy, navigating therapy and educational decisions and other legal consultation areas. Also included are various appendixes that provide sample letter forms and a student self-monitoring IEP worksheet.
Too often, parents do not have the financial means to engage an advocate, or simply “give up” when the prospects for fighting for their child become too great. While professional advocates can indeed be valuable resources at times, knowing how to properly advocate – knowing what to look for, how to take the needed steps – for your autistic child can be a godsend. Martin’s book can serve as a standard “go to” resource for parents with children with ASD across the country. As Martin writes, “Know that you’re on a steep learning curve and will not be able to master everything overnight. All you can do is your best. If you take responsibility where you can and resolve to improve, you will make a positive difference.”
Brian Field is the National Autism Examiner
Tags: autism, autism advocate, autism help, autism parenting, autism support
