Growing Together

If there’s one thing parenting has taught me, it’s that no two days (or children) are ever the same. Our journey with our eldest daughter, who is autistic, has been one of learning, adjusting, advocating—and, above all, loving fiercely. But as she grows older and her world expands, so does ours. Because we’re not just raising one incredible child—we’re raising four. And each of them brings their own unique spark, rhythm, and occasional plot twist.

Watching Her Grow

Our eldest is growing up in a world that doesn’t always feel made for her—but she’s navigating it with more grace and strength than I ever imagined. Her needs are changing. Her interests are evolving. And the support she needs today isn’t the same as yesterday—or what she’ll need tomorrow. It’s a beautiful challenge, this part. Because while she grows, so do we—into better advocates, more understanding parents, and deeply empathetic humans.

Enter the Tiny Tornado: Our 5-Year-Old

Then there’s our second daughter. Five years old and full of fire. She’s currently being assessed for ADHD, and let me tell you—this kid keeps me on my toes (and occasionally on the edge of my sanity). Her energy is endless, her ideas are wild, and her heart is huge. While assessments can feel like a whirlwind, we’ve learned that having a possible diagnosis isn’t a label—it’s a lens. A way to understand her better, to meet her where she’s at, and to support her in a way that celebrates her exactly as she is.

Sibling Dynamics: The Good, the Chaotic, and the Hilarious

Our two boys round out the crew, each with their own personalities and needs. And together, this crew of four is learning what it means to live, grow, and support each other in a home filled with neurodiversity.

There are days when the house feels like a circus. Days when one kid needs quiet, while the other two are tap-dancing in the kitchen. Days when meltdowns and misunderstandings feel never-ending. But then there are the magic moments—when one sibling instinctively adapts to another’s needs. When they stand up for each other, or hold hands without being asked. When laughter fills the room louder than any chaos ever could.

Lessons from the Messy Middle

Parenting in a neurodiverse family isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about showing up—again and again—with love, patience, and snacks (so many snacks). It’s about adjusting your expectations and then adjusting them again. It’s about fighting for accommodations while also fighting the urge to compare your journey to anyone else’s.

But mostly, it’s about recognizing that every child is growing on their own timeline. And every day, we’re growing too.

So if you’re walking this path—whether you're years in or just beginning—I see you. You’re not alone. And if no one’s told you today: You’re doing an amazing job.