Teen Autism

 My name is Tanya Savko. I am a writer and the mother of two sons. I am also the southern Oregon chapter rep for the Autism Society of Oregon.

My older son, Nigel, was diagnosed with autism at age three, in 1997. Between the ages of three and six he received intensive ABA-based therapy, which I believe was essential to how well he is able to function today. Unfortunately, negative peer interaction in middle school made it necessary for me to homeschool him, which I did from January, 2008, until June, 2009. Nigel was able to return to part-time mainstreaming in March, 2009, and is now mainstreamed full-time (with assistance) in high school.

My younger son, Aidan, is thirteen. He is an avid gamer and wants to design video games when he grows up. He is imaginative, sensitive (including having sensory processing disorder), and compassionate. His Kindergarten teacher remarked how Aidan would always be the first to comfort his classmates if they were hurt or upset. He has mentioned to me several times that he feels like he is the older brother, always looking out for Nigel. I am truly blessed with both of them.

I decided at the age of four that I wanted to write books. I have written ever since (although I didn’t limit myself to books). My poetry and articles about autism have been featured in several publications, and my novel about raising a child with autism is scheduled to be published later this year. I decided to start the Teen Autism blog as a way to connect with other parents of autistic teens, to gain insight from those who have been through the teen years, as well as to offer encouragement to those just entering them. I welcome your comments, suggestions, and questions. It’s good to know we’re not alone on this journey.