Summer Update: Life with Autism is Better With Self-Determination Program

This summer felt a little different than last year’s “Summer of Yes,” but it was still filled with moments of joy and growth. With the added support of the Self-Determination Program, my daughter had the chance to create more of her own schedule and develop more independence. It was a beautiful balance of freedom and structure, something we’ve been working toward for a while now.

She had her personal assistant with her for much of the summer, and while I still spent lots of time with her, it was refreshing to see her spread her wings a bit. There were days when the three of us hung out, having fun and relaxing together, but I also saw how much she appreciated having some space and the chance to do things on her own. This balance made our time together feel even more meaningful.

She also attended a camp for 19 days (just the days, thankfully), and it was amazing to see her engage with new experiences and grow in confidence. We mixed that with activities like horseback riding, which provided a routine and gave us a chance to bond in a way that felt grounded and consistent.

In the end, this summer wasn’t just about having fun (although there was plenty of that too). It was about supporting my daughter in new ways and letting her feel like she could take more control of her life—something I know will be invaluable as she continues to grow into the wonderful young adult she’s becoming.