AUTISM SUPPORT GROUPS

AUTISM SUPPORT GROUPS

Interview with Kim Niestrath

by Renée Vajko-Srch

            Raising a child on the spectrum can be very difficult for parents and siblings alike. As a result, many autism support groups have been established through the United States and abroad. The support group’s main function is to offer encouragement, assistance, guidance and hope.

            Our family was very blessed to find an autism support group in Nevada, Missouri. One of our sons, who is on the spectrum, attended Camp Au-some, a one-day camp where children with autism meet together and enjoy fun activities such as fishing, hiking, swimming, playing indoor and outdoor games and learning a bit about what makes them both unique and awesome. It was a day he and I will never forget.

            Kim Niestrath is the moderator, organizer and publicist for the Nevada support group. She also coordinates Camp Au-some. Kim has a bachelor’s degree in education and a graduate certificate in classic and high-functioning autism. She is also the president of Vernon County Autism Awareness. According to Kim, her most important autism advisor is her sixteen-year-old son who is many things but is also on the spectrum.

What is a support group and what is its purpose?

            I think of a support group as a gathering of people with a commonality, sharing information.

How often does your support group meet?

            We meet once a month, but we also have a Facebook page that permits us to touch base as often as needed.

What are some of the topics your group has discussed?

            Some of the topics we have covered are:

• ·         educating extended family
• ·         hidden curriculum
• ·         Individualized Education Plans
• ·         Occupational Therapy
• ·         Special Education laws
• ·         resources
• ·         sibling information
• ·         comorbid conditions
• ·         transition planning
• ·         home-base strategy

Does your support group enjoy other activities outside of the meetings?

            Our support group has gone roller skating, attended Camp Au-some, enjoyed family game night and joined in the Autism Awareness Walk.

What advice would you offer to parents with a child on the autism spectrum?

            Be your child’s advocate, cheerleader and coach. As parents, you know your child better than anyone else. Fight for the potential you see in them. Celebrate even small victories. Allow your son or daughter to be different but not less.

            Do not let autism be the first thing you tell people about your child. He or she is so much more than a label.

What have you learned from the support group?

There is strength in numbers. Your struggle isn’t totally unique to you, and your story just might help others.

To find a support group near you, contact Autism Speaks, Community Support Systems, Easter Seals, National Autism Association, The Autism Project or even your local school. Be certain they are recommended by someone you trust.