Posts by Robyn DeMars
Leapfrogging and Sibling Milestones: Parenting Through Bittersweet Moments
I knew it was coming – the day my daughter Rosie would leapfrog her older autistic brother. Leapfrogging is when a younger sibling surpasses an older one in areas like emotional, functional, or verbal development.This summer, I enjoyed watching my 6-year-old daughter learn to do so many new skills.Tying her shoes.Taking a shower.Doing her makeup.Styling her hair.It has been so fun. Having a little girl is everything I dreamed it would be.Sass. Spunk. Cuddles. Laughter. Tickles. Frilly Dresses. Random fashion shows.As she speeds through all these milestones, it catches me…
Read MoreBecause of You: Celebrating Autism Awareness
My Boys, Because of you, I will always know that the month of April is Autism Awareness Month. We don’t just celebrate the start of Spring, but recognize what makes you uniquely YOU. Because of you, our family life is a little bit more crazy. We aren’t able to travel like a lot of families, but our little vacations we do take are fantastic. Because of you, your siblings are stretched in so many ways. But, they have learned to be the most compassionate and empathetic brothers and sisters you…
Read MoreThe Glass Child
Glass child is a term used to define a sibling who has a brother or sister with a disability. These siblings are unique individuals and they often sacrifice time with their parents. This often leads to stress as their parents are often dealing with challenging behaviors, constant therapies and doctor appointments. They strive to be cared for and their emotional needs being met. The list can go on and on. In the end, what they get from their parents at the end of the day is only a fraction of…
Read MoreAs School Starts Teach Your Kids to Be Kind
Before your kids go back to school… Talk to them about being kind. Being a friend. Be generous. Being a kind human. Because… Back when I was only 10 years ago old a new school opened up in my hometown, and I was transferred there for my last two years in elementary school. I had just gotten glasses, and did not know anyone at my new school. I was what many kids would call a geek. The kids at this school came from a nicer part of town where they…
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