Need help 4 yr old Autism

[Anonymous]

HUGGG!!! Sweetheart you are NOT ALONE and there are other solutions to this problem. First you've got to schedule some "ME TIME" it may be 4 AM in the morning or after your child goes to bed at night, but find a nice comfortable spot and journal, listen to some music you enjoy, or just take a hot bubble bath. RELAX- she's 4 now, and time will fly before you know it. Don't waste your energy thinking about her dad if he was never there. Be happy you are getting a child support check, find you some new friends, take some of the advice given and keep moving. She's your daughter- I'm here to tell you that even in some marriages the woman does ALL the work so it's like their single parents too. Get involved in support groups where you will meet other parents with similar challenges. Take care

[Anonymous]

OP, call AU, Georgetown and GW child development/psychology departments. I bet there are grad students who would babysit for you to fulfill their "in-the-field" hour requirements. You have to pay them, but a normal babysitter's fee, not a developmental psychologist's fee. It's a win/win: they get to practice their theories and you get a person who, at least in theory, gets your kid. Good luck. I really feel for you.

[Anonymous]

As OP, I can not express how much every post has provided me with hope and insight. For an update- on Monday I met with my therapist and that was very helpful. I have an interview for a respite provider on tomorrow. This person will be able to come to my home and give me a break, and I was able to connect with another parent who is in a similar situation. We will meet on Saturday to discuss taking turns keeping each others kids. I'm in a much better space mentally than when I posted originally. Thanks a lot everyone!