Title: Preparing Parents to Advocate for a Child With Autism (Opinion)
Headings: Preparing Parents to Advocate for a Child With Autism
Preparing Parents to Advocate for a Child With Autism
Educators have a vital role to play in helping parents develop the skills to become effective advocates for children with autism
Anne Foster, Debbie Rude, Caroline Grannan, Phi Delta Kappan
Parent Advocates
Don’t Get Emotional
Develop a Network for Advocacy

Content: Parent advocates of children with autism should remember that times have changed. Autism is not an educational death sentence for their child or their family, but early intervention is crucial. Although there is no cure for autism, early intervention coupled with parent advocacy will help build confidence in children so they may eventually advocate for themselves as they move beyond the public education system. Educators will make their work easier—and improve the learning environment for students with autism—if they help parents become effective advocates. Here are some steps that educators can take to guide parents as they navigate the K-12 system. Provide opportunities for parents to walk in their child’s shoes as he or she manages through the school day. What coping mechanisms are in place for him to successfully manage the obstacles children with autism face? Children living with autism often lack the skills and tools needed to communicate and effectively cope in a traditional classroom. In order to advocate effectively, parents and caregivers must first build a common understanding of autism in conjunction with an understanding of how autism is relevant in a child’s daily life. For example, how does the child respond to changes in the daily schedule?