Name: Aimee Toney
Child: Ezra, Age 9
Occupation: Playground Coordinator of Autistic “Friends” Program.
City, State: Phoenix, Arizona

1. At what age did you discover your child was autistic and how did you find out?
Our son was diagnosed at age 2-1/2 after a routine well visit with our pediatrician.  When our doctor did not see him meeting the usual developmental milestones she recommended we begin with a hearing screening (to rule out as a possibility) and proceed with a state provided early intervention program.

2. What websites- information, tools ec.. have you found to be helpful to you and your family?
I have utilized www.autism-society.org, www.autismweb.com and  www.autismspeaks.org in gathering information to help my son and our family.  There is so much more information on the internet now than when our son was diagnosed back in 2004.  The internet can be a little intimidating however and dealing with Autism is a very personal journey for each individual family so remember to trust your gut when gathering information.  There are also a lot of great books out there that can help with specific issues your family may deal with  like communication and social interaction concerns and food sensitivities.  It is a good idea to pick and choose the information you feel is valuable and applies to your family because no two children with autism are the same!  And remember that no one knows your child better than you do!

3. What advice do you have to give to other mom’s who have just found out their child is autistic?
I don’t think any parent can be prepared to get an Autism diagnosis for their child.  It was a really hard time for my husband and I and it took some time to accept.  I would just say that although it can be devastating at first, it does get better because you arm yourself with knowledge and that knowledge will give you the power endure!  Although we are constantly trying to better educate ourselves on the subject of Autism we know in our hearts that our son will always be our best teacher.  :O)

4.  What is the hardest part of raising a child with autism?
It is really difficult to narrow down what makes raising a child with autism so hard.  I would say the best answer I can give is a lack of understanding from other people.  Since we interact with a lot of people in this busy world, we come into contact with many who are not familiar with the characteristics of Autism.  We are blessed that our son is high functioning, however, because he looks so “typical” on the outside, it can make his behaviors that much more baffleing to other people when we are in a social situation.  We are very fortunate that our son’s school is wonderful at teaching the kids about acceptance and showing compassion and I am hoping in the future our world will also embrace our kids with special needs.