If you follow along on Instagram, you’ll know that we’ve been on a journey with Lily, going through various therapies and awaiting her autism assessment. As of October 22nd, Lily has been officially diagnosed with Level 2 autism. The online definition of Level 2 autism is: a mid-range level of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) that requires significant support. People with Level 2 autism have more severe symptoms than those with Level 1 autism, and their challenges are more obvious to others. Some characteristics of Level 2 autism include:
- Social interaction: Difficulty understanding social cues, which can lead to misunderstandings or challenges in building relationships.
- Communication: Difficulty with verbal and nonverbal communication, such as speaking in simple sentences, using fewer words, or missing nonverbal communication cues.
- Repetitive behaviors: Obvious repetitive behaviors that may be apparent to casual observers.
- Routine: Difficulty coping with changes in routine, which can cause challenging behavior.
- Interests: Narrow special interests.
- Stress: Noticeable stress when dealing with change.
Source: Verywell.com
Lily displays many of these markers daily, while others appear less frequently. However, for those who spend a lot of time with her, it has been very clear that she is not your "typical" toddler. No two autistic children are alike, so for the past six months, we have been learning to see the world through Lily’s lens, trying to unlock her little mind so she can engage with us more.
It’s been a long six months for me, especially since I sensed there was something different about her from about three months after she was born. Now, armed with a diagnosis, we can seek out further therapies for her, start speech therapy in January, and continue to advocate for her until she’s ready to enter preschool. I'm also crossing my fingers for another program down the street from us that might start sooner!
We’ve had a lot of engagement on Facebook lately with some of the videos I’ve shared, wondering what autism has to do with bonnets. While I know many don’t quite understand the connection between bonnets and autism, our loyal followers and longtime customers understand exactly why this business was created.
For those who are new here or might need a refresher—Sweet As April was named after my son, Elliot, who was born in April. It was a desperate attempt to create a living from home so I could be with both of my children full-time while Elliot received therapies (Leia received way more therapy than Elliot ever did!). What started as a blog—how cool is it that I'm still writing these posts?—has evolved into a bonnet-making business that I never thought would still be around eight years later. I love what I do, and this business has made navigating autism, two speech disorders, years of therapy, and now Lily’s journey possible. Without the flexibility of this business, I could not advocate for my children as I do, nor could we make ends meet as a family living a very simple life here in New England.
So, bonnets allow me to be the best mother I can be—not only because I get to share my children and inspire others, but because your support means I can stay home and be present with them for whatever they may need. For that, I cannot thank you enough. I will continue to share our journey, regardless of what "the masses" say, because the number of messages, emails, voice memos, and cards of thanks shows that this kind of conversation is important—it makes a difference.
Love, bonnets & staying strong guys. Thank you for always being here!
