How to get your time back as an autism mom

How to get your time back as an autism mom?

This is one of the questions I get asked all the time!

Sometimes, the moms at my learning center for children with autism look desperate. They are desperate to have some time to themselves, to have some adult conversation and/or to just take a nap! I hear ya. Special needs parenting is hard and you never get a vacation. No matter what your child’s challenges are, you must make sure to take time for yourself to avoid burnout and complete exhaustion.

These steps will help teach you how to get your time back as an autism mom.

You’ve got this, mama!

1. Increase communication with your special needs child.

Whether your child is non verbal, just starting to speak or using small sentences, visual support can help increase functional communication.

Increased communication will result in mote harmony at home and less overall frustration. Less time managing stressful situations and tantrums equals more quality time for yourself.

One of the most efficient ways to teach language to ASD learners is through the use of adapted sign language. These signs promote verbal communication. If you are interested in getting started with adapted sign language, you can download your free signing poster here and you will have the first 9 signs you need to get started.

2. Create a dedicated space for learning.

Creating a dedicated space for learning will help increase your child’s learning. You will spend less time cleaning up toys that are all over your house and you will be able to teach your child to do some independent learning activities in his or her learning space as well. I called these dedicated learning spaces “progress nooks”. Can you create one easily in 7 simple steps. I put together a free email course to help you do it! Sign up for it here.

This will buy back time for you.

3. Choose the right materials.

Increased learning will result in adapted behavior and more time for you. Make sure you have the materials you need for success with this free printable autism toys checklist.

4. Ask for help.

Sometimes the best way to get your time back is to simply ask for it. If your husband is home on the weekend, schedule some time for yourself. Ask your husband to watch your child (or children) for an hour or two and do something entirely for you. Need ideas? Get a manicure, read a good book, take a nap, write in your journal or go for a walk. It doesn’t matter what you do. The most important thing you can do is ask for your time back.

[bctt tweet=”Dear autism mom get your time back with these strategies!” username=”lecheminaba”]

5. Have additional helpers.

Who are helpers and where can you find these magical people? Helpers are people you decide you will invite into your life and home to help you out. They can be babysitters, grandparents, volunteers, students, friends…

I know how hard it is to have find someone to stay with your child but do not get stucking thinking that no one is qualified to do so. You will end up isolating yourself and your family and you will be stuck doing everything yourself. Adopt the mentality early on that others can learn to help your child.