neurouniquennk

04/12/2026

Nobody dreams of a baby with autism.
I took my pre-natal vitamins.
Stayed away from sandwich meat.
I drank coffee, but for the most part, I did all the things.
Followed the rules.
Autism showed up anyhow.
1 in 36 children have autism.
When Amos was diagnosed some eight years ago, the statistic was 1 in 62.
The number one question I get is why.
I don't know.
What I do know is that it’s here.
In my family, in our lives, in every single community.
Autism is not a sexy topic but one year ago, it was given a seat at the table.
It was not the first book about autism to make the New York Times Bestsellers List.
It was the fourth.
In 94 years.
It WAS the first book with AUTISM in the title though.
AUTISM OUT LOUD.
Welcome, I imagine the world saying.
This is for you, I say.

04/07/2026

Get ready for a "low key" sensory friendly morning at Compass on April 18th! All ages are welcome, and don't forget to pre-register for a discount! Hope to see you!

04/06/2026

Peter and Pamela Wright, the founders of Wrights Law, are true advocates for parents of special needs children, working tirelessly to ensure their rights are protected in school systems nationwide. They graciously offered our group free books to empower us in navigating the system, and we're hopeful they'll join us at an upcoming Saturday gathering! Limited quantities of their book are available - please let me know if you're interested.

04/02/2026

Bring autism and the whole spectrum to the forefront here in the NNK, lets come together and see what we can do to help our kids thrive! This Saturday at 10, , let’s share resources, shoulders and ideas!

03/30/2026

To our neighbors in Kilmarnock and around the NNK:

Acceptance starts with community. It means being patient when a child is having a hard time at the grocery store. It means inviting the "quiet kid" to the birthday party.

Let's make the Northern Neck the most inclusive rural community in Virginia. Who’s with us? 🤝

03/29/2026

Calling all parents and caregivers of kids on the autism spectrum! Let's gather to celebrate what makes our kids unique and explore ways to support them in our community. Feel free to bring your little ones - we've got space for them to play and socialize. This is a safe, judgment-free zone where we can openly share our experiences as parents/caregivers of neurodiverse kids.

03/21/2026

April 18th is coming up fast and we are so excited for Sensory Day! 💙

Join us from 9AM–12PM (before opening hours!) for a calm, welcoming experience designed for all ages. We’ll have lowered music, softer sound levels, and a more comfortable environment so everyone can enjoy the fun ✨

🎬 PLUS — enjoy a FREE movie during the event!

Pre-register using the link below 👇
Link: https://tinyurl.com/2b82nczb

We can’t wait to see you there!

03/19/2026

Check out the latest issue of the Local Scoop, featuring my family and our mission to create more opportunities for kids with special needs in our community. Our goal is to focus on their strengths, build self-confidence, and help them thrive in their own way. Let's work together to make a difference and maybe even establish a school tailored to their needs here in the Northern Neck. Join us in this endeavor!

02/22/2026

02/18/2026

The "Autism Parent" burnout is real. And in a rural area, it can feel even heavier when you feel isolated.

If you are feeling the weight of it today, please remember: You are the expert on your child, but you don't have to be the therapist 24/7. It is okay to just be "Mom" or "Dad" today.

Take 5 minutes on the porch. Breathe the fresh air. You are doing a great job.

02/11/2026

As Virginia lawmakers finalize the state budget, proposed language could severely restrict ABA services and cap hours for children in need. We encourage you to contact your lawmakers by clicking here https://conta.cc/4kiyBqG Together, we can ensure that every child has access to the care they deserve.