Life at Sensory Planet

Growing up, many of us were raised in households where discipline came in the form of threats, yelling, or even spanking. It was part of the culture, part of the norm—and often passed down through generations without question.

Ah, childhood. The land of scraped knees, snack negotiations, and the occasional “You’re not invited to my birthday party!” declaration. It’s also the stage where many parents find themselves acting as tiny human social coordinators. But sometimes, in our earnest desire to do the right thing, we end up doing a bit... too much.

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. 

Raising kids is like juggling flaming swords while blindfolded. Now add a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) into the mix and suddenly, you’re juggling flaming swords on a unicycle—on a tightrope—during a windstorm. Sound dramatic? Maybe. Accurate? Also yes.

April is Autism Awareness Month, a time to celebrate neurodiversity, promote inclusion, and spread understanding about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). But what exactly is autism, and how does it affect individuals?