Autism X6

Discovery Health Channel is airing a special this month called Autism X6. The show focuses on the Kirton family, John and Robin and their 6 children: Robert (14), Emma (10), Nephi (9), Sarah (6), Ammon (4), and Mary (3). I know you may be thinking “Wow! That sure is a large family.” Well, the Kirtons have the added challenge that comes from the fact that all six of the children are autistic. The program gives a look at the day-to-day life of the Kirtons as they talk about the children’s intensive therapies, how the children function in school, and how John and Robin juggle all the demands that come with parenting a large family with challenges.

I’m always in awe of larger families. I have a hard enough time managing the two children I have. This parenting gig is by no means easy, even when you don’t have a lot of kids. But to see a couple with six kids—not to mention 6 kids with special needs—is quite a thing to behold. I find that there is a lot to learn from other families with special needs kids. We have to struggle with many of the same things, such as:

• getting the help our kids need to help them reach their fullest potential
• helping our kids deal with fitting in when it’s tough to form relationships and interact socially
• figuring out how to meet their changing needs as they approach adulthood
• remembering to take time to enjoy the time we have together
• reminding ourselves that love, and not stuff, is the most important thing we can give our kids

I found myself moved by the Kirton children and their parents. I can relate to some of what they go through every day, and I found it reaffirmed the fact that there are many families like my own who are trying to help their special needs kids in whatever way they can.

If you’d like to learn more about the Kirtons, visit their website at Autism Bites. If you'd like to watch Autism X6, please check your local listings for airtimes.