FAQautism

New Year resolutions are often a joke. But, as a new year dawns, you could have fun reviewing the past 12 months, and making some resolutions to brighten up the upcoming year. You might even surprise yourself by sticking with resolutions for 2010.

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A mom of a ten-year-old with autism said she knows she can’t control every detail of her daughter’s life, but she likes making a few resolutions each year so she can purposefully “do what I can to make these years count.” Check out the ideas below to get your thought process kicked into gear.

HEALTH: Make a resolution to help your friend with autism move more. Everyone can benefit from being more active. Swing, bike, or walk around the block. Rake leaves, push the vacuum, and swiff the floor. Take the dog for a walk or go out to get the newspaper. Push a cart around the grocery store and help carry in the groceries. The goal is to just keep on moving.

HELPER: Think about getting a buddy or two for your youngster with autism this year. Make arrangements for a college student, a retired teacher, or a neighbor to spend time with your friend several afternoons a week or on Saturday mornings. This buddy system helps in two ways. First, it expands horizons for individuals with autism of all ages by giving them a chance to spend time with more than just family members and teachers. Secondly, the buddy system allows family members a break to take care of personal business. Many individuals with autism have difficulty making new friends, and they often find it difficult to transition away from their regular routine. This buddy system helps with all these issues.

HAPPINESS: Pick any of these resolutions that will help enhance the quality of life for your friend with autism and those around him. Lighten up. Forgive and forget. View live as an adventure. Bust boredom. Search for and enjoy the silver lining in any clouds that rain on your life.

So, best wishes for you and yours as we kick off another year. Our main resolution is to spread the word about http://FAQautism.com. Will you help us reach that goal? Tell your friends about this resource. Thanks!

NOTE TO READERS AND LISTENERS: I am Cathy Knoll, a board certified music therapist and long-time friend of many folks with autism. At FAQautism.com we are committed to providing free, practical, everyday tips for making life better for people with autism. Feel free to send me a confidential email at talk@FAQautism.com with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. And don’t forget to check out our website for a wealth of ideas and a glimpse into the world of autism. http://FAQautism.com

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