Lucille Said:

Careers in Early Childhood Development?

We Answered:

I've been in the Early Childhood Field for many, many years, doing many, many different things within the field. I taught preschoolers, then advanced to directing a 1/2 day preschool, then directed a large military (my husband was in the Air Force) child care center, then taught early childhood special education, then taught early childhood education classes in both 2 and 4 year colleges, and have been a regulator of child care centers for the last 22 years. I've also been a child care consultant to centers starting up and helped develop an online course for regulators. I've also done training of new staff. There are so many directions that one can go. Each step moves you to another opportunity, so you can do whatever you want. I would suggest teaching preschool children for at least one or two years, particularly if you don't have daily contact with your own or someone close to you who has young children. I think that once I retire from my present job I will continue to work as a consultant or possibly teach on the college level again, either in a classroom or developing online courses. Each experience I had built a foundation for all the other things I've done collectively. I can't say that one experience was "better" than another, but some definitely pay more, with more benefits. It all depends what you're interested in, what evolves, and where you live. We moved quite a few times, so I always was ready for another challenge and trying something new. Good luck. Early Childhood Education needs good, young people to continue the progress that has been made in the field. Keep in touch if you want, there are many opportunities when you aren't even looking. They just come up. I ended up in my regulator jposition by being in a college class to get another teaching certification. The instructor knew that I already had both a BS in Ed and MS in Ed and suggested that I contact the person who ultimately became my boss. So one suggestion is to get connected with Early Childhood groups such as NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) and eventually you will find a "niche" that is right for you. Many of us "long time" ECE people get and maintain contacts throughout the U.S. and abroad by attending the conferences each year. NAEYC has a "Student" rate that is considerably lower than the regular rate for both dues and conferences. You can check it out on the web. Just some thoughts... Contacts and trying a little of everything will help you find what your passion really is! It's hard when you are 18 to 22 to decide what you want to do the rest of your life. When I was in college I never thought I would do what I have done in my life. I just wanted to teach.

Audrey Said:

Autism and stress on marriage?

We Answered:

My brother is autistic and I worked in group homes for years. While I can't fully understand your grief, I certainly sympathize with your challenge.

First of all, I would not dismiss Applied Behavioral Analysis too quickly. There are no guarantees, but I have seen it work fairly well with some kids. I understand the "dog training" analogy, but if it helps you manage some of his behaviors, then doesn't the end justify the means? He obviously has some needs, and may not respond to some of the conventional means that other kids respond to.

Secondly, it is encouraging that you've tried to intervene as early as possible. Most research shows that the earlier one can intervene, the better. However, progress does often take a lot of time. Don't be dismissive to the therapy if it doesn't yield results within a day, week, month, or whatever the timeframe is. Keep continuing and try to note small gains.

Thirdly, do not forget to take care of yourself and your husband during this time. Try to coordinate with any local agencies that specialize in this area, and get some sort of relief for yourself. There are a lot of stresses the two of you are going through now. As difficult as it may be, you need to set time aside for the two of you and enjoy each other's company.

I wish you well.

Jessie Said:

Autism and stress on the marriage?

We Answered:

Oh my gosh, you and I have parallel lives. We are in that exact same boat. My son is 31/2, non-verbal, with all the same hobbies that you listed. He was also diagnosed last year and the gfcf diet did not work for us either.
You need to find yourself a support group in your area. The parents in these groups are right where you are or have already been there and they will help you through it. Also take a look at yahoo. There are several groups for parents of young children with Autism. They are a wealth of knowledge and support.
I would also suggest you read the book Engaging Autism by Dr Greenspan. This book helped me reach out to my son and relate to him.
I too find that dealing with autism is very hard on my marriage. It is also very hard on my older son, who is only 5 and does not really know what is going on. I try not to get obsessive. I try to remember that my son will always have autism and that this is a marathon, not a sprint. Make a date night for you and your husband. Even if you can't get out. Have a romantic dinner in. You guys need to keep time just for the 2 of you.

I hope something I wrote offers you help. Just know that you are not alone and that there are other moms out there too who feel so overwhelmed . You need to find them so you can offer each other support and shoulders to lean on.

takecare,