I don’t know about you but I find a lot of comfort in reading the words of other autism parents.
It’s comforting to know I’m not alone. That my struggles are real. That my challenges are understood. That my fears for my kids are shared.
I also enjoy learning new things and getting new viewpoints on issues close to my heart. I love being challenged in my thought processes, although I admit that’s not always comforting.
But, to be honest, special needs parenting is not always a smooth ride either.
I don’t always get a chance to read or comment on every post published by my 5 favourite autism bloggers but it’s comforting to always have their updates in my newsfeed.
Each and every one of these writers bring a unique perspective to the world of autism parenting. I definitely feel more empowered whenever I catch one of their posts. And I hope you will too, if you don’t already follow them.
My 5 Favourite Autism Bloggers
Autism Daddy
Autism Daddy (recently unveiled as Frank Campagna) writes about his life as a dad to his 12 yo son Kyle who has severe autism and epilepsy. His Facebook updates are honest accounts of what life living with “The King” really looks like – both the good and the not-so-good. Based in the US he has a large following and talks about a range of topics that cover the whole spectrum (pun intended). He is really worth following if you don’t already get his updates. Plus he works for Sesame Street which I think is really cool!
Autism from a father’s point of view – Stuart Duncan
A father of two boys (his eldest son, Cameron, is on the spectrum) Stuart also has Aspergers himself which he only discovered after his son’s diagnosis. In 2013, he established a dedicated Minecraft server, called Autcraft, to help kids with autism play online in a safe and supportive environment. He has written two e-books and you may have also seen some of his notable quotes around the internet. His posts are thoughtful and compelling and are always worth a read.
Carrie Cariello
Carrie is one of my all-time favourite writers. She channels a clarity, passion and intensity in her writing that I can only dream of possessing. She is a mum of 5 and her son, Jack, is on the spectrum. She has also written two books, countless articles and has even presented a TEDtalk. I love that Carrie is looking to celebrate her son and that she asks his permission to write about him. Jack certainly sounds like a wonderful character who shines through the entertaining writing of his mum.
About a Bugg – Renee Bugg
I’ve followed Renee’s stories of living life on the edges of the spectrum for a number of years now. Living in Melbourne with her husband, and daughter Poss, Renee shares the realities of raising a daughter with ASD. Sometimes funny, sometimes moving but always compelling, I enjoy Renee’s posts as part of an Australian autism family. She does a great job of sharing their family life which, in the end, isn’t so much different to anyone else’s. I’m also in awe of her advocacy skills and ability to write from the heart on issues of social justice and equality.
Michelle Sutton Writes
Michelle is a passionate advocate for neurodivergence and giving people with autism the chance to speak for themselves. She has recently started identifying herself as autistic and has a neurodiverse family living with autism, bipolar, depression, anxiety, sleep challenges and sensory sensitivities. Michelle has edited a book, The Real Experts, focusing on the experiences of adults with ASD for the benefit of parents with children on the spectrum. Her posts are always challenging, thoughtful and must-reads for all parents raising children with autism.
Who are your favourite autism bloggers? Please share as I’d love to add more blogs to my reading list.
I love reading Renee’s blog too. I’ve recommended hers and yours to my sister in law a number of times {my niece has autism}.
Thanks Toni x
Such a great list I’ll be sure to check these out, thanks for sharing have a great weekend xx
They are all well worth a read – powerful insights into living with autism plus some great story-telling. Which is what good blogging is all about!
Always great to know best resources for families and you do this well, Kirsty. Denyse
Thanks D. I’m hoping to share more in the coming weeks too.
Such a great list, Kirsty. And I think the more blogs we know, the better we can spread the word. I don’t have any favourites (except yours, of course!) but I did share this amazing video on my FB private account:
https://www.facebook.com/Upworthy/videos/1185660188141504/?pnref=story
That is a fantastic video – thanks for sharing it Grace x
I have to say, I don t know what causes it either, but if it s lack of strawberries, then why is my son in there? We actually have a strawberry budget and have to lock the refrigerator when we have them in our house. He eats pounds in one sitting and they are usually gone before we even get home from the grocery store. So the strawberry idea is hilarious to me ?