I've been reading the book Autism Spectrum Disorders in Infants and Toddlers right now and I find the work done by the contributing researchers fascinating. I truly believe that we can see characteristics of autism very early and should be able to diagnose much, much earlier than 2-3 years. Diagnosing children earlier provides families an opportunity to give the child better coping mechanisms, alternative language opportunities such as AAC devices, sign language, PECS, help the family cope with accepting the diagnosis earlier, and overall provide the child a greater chance of doing what he or she wants to in life. I believe in a life without limits and much of that comes from accepting the child, accepting the label, accepting the child's strengths.

From the book:
"An inspiring aspect of the work is the opportunity and privelege of witnessing families overcome very real and very difficult hurdles and come to view ASD as a "blessing in disguise" and an important factor in their sense of calling in life. Living with ASD opens many parents to self-discovery and personal growth that may not have happened otherwise. Countless numbers of families have noted that living with ASD has taught them to celebrate the little things in life, to not take anything for granted, to grow personally, to be brave, to be humble, and to be grateful. Many have an intense appreciation of the value and strength of family and actively reach out and support the health and advancement of hte wide community of families living with ASD" (322).

I know this has been the case for me and my family. If you had asked me at age 18 or 23 what I would be doing in life, you never would have gotten an answer anywhere close to what my life is right now. Ewan has changed my life in ways I can never thank him for. All my children have given me more than I can ever repay. I have a deep sense of God puts us where he wants us, where we can do the most good, where we can affect as many lives' as possible. I believe in things like 'Pay it Forward' and small acts of kindness that may seem inconsequential but change someone's life. I believe in taking the time to know the children I work with and what they like, what they don't like, what their personality is and to find the diamond under the rough exterior. I find the same joy as I would in my own children when a family calls and tells me their child has said a new word or their first word, has used their AAC device, has connected with them, has ate a new food, or tried something new. I celebrate the little things and the small steps, in their lives as much as I do in my own.