How We Came to Understand Autism
Episode 2: From Autism Diagnosis to College Freshman
How we came to understand autism.
Within the Village Engagement Matrix™, children between the ages of 2–4 years old are in the Sprout Stage while parents and caregivers are in the Explorer Phase.
During the Explorer Phase, the role of the parent or caregiver is to discover who their child is as an individual by observing their interests, preferences, strengths, sensitivities, communication style, and unique way of engaging with the world.
In Episode 2, we discuss how the observations made during my Explorer Phase helped me understand that my son was experiencing the world differently.
Those observations led me to seek additional information, support, and resources.
They also helped me begin building the village that would support his growth and development over time.
Today, as an Oak Tree, many of the village members who joined our journey during those early years are still present.
The relationships, supports, and shared understanding built during childhood continue to contribute to his growth, self-awareness, self-advocacy, and increasing independence as a young adult.
Through the lens of the Village Engagement Matrix™, this episode illustrates how careful observation during the Explorer Phase can help families better understand the child in front of them and begin building a Top-Notch Village™ that grows alongside the child over time.🌱🌿🌳
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