Hello, and welcome back to my blog! I’m Danielle, mom to my incredible six-year-old, Selena, and her younger sister and baby brother. We’re a family finding our groove while raising a child with level 3 autism, and I’m here to share the real, beautiful, and sometimes messy moments of our days. If you’re navigating autism or just curious about our world, I’m so glad you’re here. Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on what daily life looks like for us—therapies, sibling love, and the little victories that light up our home.
Selena’s autism shapes our routine in ways I never imagined when she was diagnosed on her second birthday. Back then, “non-verbal” and “level 3” felt like daunting labels for my bright-eyed girl. Now, they’re just part of who she is—a whirlwind of giggles and focus who communicates through gestures and a determined spark. Our days start early, often with Selena’s favorite music filling the house. She’ll flap her hands with joy, her signal that she’s ready to take on the day, and I’m reminded how her happiness sets our tone.
Mornings are dedicated to Selena’s ABA therapy, a cornerstone of her growth. Applied Behavior Analysis helps her build skills, from daily tasks like dressing to communicating her needs. Her therapist uses play to make it fun—think stacking blocks to earn a spin with her favorite toy wheel. When Selena points to a picture on her ACC device for “snack” after a session, it’s a victory that feels like a conversation. ABA isn’t always easy; some days she resists, and I wonder if we’re pushing too hard. But then she masters a new skill, like clapping to ask for more, and her proud smile says it’s worth it.
Afternoons bring family time, and that’s where things get beautifully chaotic. Selena’s younger sister, curious and kind, loves including her in games, even if Selena plays differently, maybe lining up toys instead of pretending. Explaining autism to her is ongoing—she’ll ask, “Why doesn’t Selena talk?” I tell her Selena “talks” with her hands and smiles, and we’re learning her language together. It’s sinking in, but some days her questions hit hard, reminding me how young she is. Her baby brother’s easier for now—he just laughs at Selena’s spins, clueless about autism but full of love helping them understand Selena’s world is a balancing act, teaching us all patience and empathy.
Challenges sneak in, too. Selena’s sensory sensitivities mean a trip to the store can spark a meltdown if it’s too bright or crowded. I’ve learned to pack her favorite squishy toy and headphones, but it’s still a gamble. Those moments test me—feeling eyes on us, wondering if I’m doing enough. But then Selena calms, maybe squeezing my hand, and I remember we’re a team. We’re not perfect, but we’re trying, and that’s enough.
Evenings are for unwinding. Selena’s obsessed with stacking anything. She is very careful about how she goes about it. Watching her focus, is my reset button. It’s when I see her purest joy, and it grounds me. We’ll cuddle up for a quiet story, her sister chiming in with silly voices, her brother babbling along. These are the moments I hold tight—the ones that say we’re finding our rhythm, autism and all.
Why share this? Because daily life with autism isn’t just schedules and struggles; it’s love, growth, and surprises. I want other families to know they’re not alone when the days feel long. I want to show the world that kids like Selena, non-verbal or not, fill life with meaning. This blog is our space to swap stories—your tips, your tough days, your wins. What’s your rhythm like? Drop a comment; I’d love to hear.
As I write, Selena’s humming nearby, stacking things tall. She’s teaching us to dance to her beat, siblings and all. Thanks for being part of our journey. Here’s to the days that challenge us and the ones that make us soar.
With gratitude,
Danielle
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