5 things to never say…

to a parent with a child who has autism   As a parent of a child who has autism, let me give everyone a few tips on what not to say.  As parents, we live in a unique world surrounded by really amazing people and our child.  The way we live and the choices we…

To My Son’s Teacher on Valentine’s Day

Happy Valentine’s Day I was about to write my son’s teacher a note for Valentine’s day and send it to her.  Then I realized that I have taken on a role in my life to be open about our journey so, I’ve decided to share what I have to say to my son’s teacher with…

Tampa Bay Morning Blend Interview

I had such a great time meeting and talking with the hosts and staff at the Morning Blend. Huge thanks to the amazing publisher, Tara Richter for everything she has done to help me share my message of hope to others. Morning Blend Ruthfulness clip

With just a match strike

Your life or someone else’s life can flash forward in your mind. All the dreams, ambitions, joy and laughter gone within aglimpse. That’s the feeling… That’s how special needs parents feel everyday. How life can be taken from us with an accident or how we wait for aglimpse into our child’s future. All the questions…

Apply for scholarships

Its scholarship season! Are you looking at sending a preschool student to kindergarten next year or unhappy at your current school? Now is the time to apply for scholarships for next school year. The two largest scholarships for special needs students are McKay and Gardiner. Two income based scholarships are Florida Tax Credit scholarship through…

Scholarships for School

When deciding on a school for a typical child parents have a multitude of options.  Many parents use public schools but also use magnet and charter programs with in the public system.  Still traditional parents use private schools and home school options.  When trying to make decisions for my special needs child regarding school and…

You’re not alone

My message to you for 2019. As 2019 brings several huge events and major achievements, I want to focus on what I want others to know and learn from Ruthfulness this year.  This year, my story and journey of early intervention and autism will be published.  I’ve had to reread and relive the pain of…

Did you move your elf on the shelf?

only a few more nights! for me….   I never moved the elf in the house!  I never had an elf in the house! Why I don’t elf on the shelf….  I have enough commitments–  this time of year is one of my favorites because of how it is traditionally centered around family and kids. …

October is the month my son became verbal

Happy Anniversary to language! A year ago, my 5 year old (soon to turn 6) became verbal!  It’s been a year since we’ve seen a huge jump in language and speech.  I remember the days of one sound/syllable and so much quiet time from him.  I remember the blank looks on his face and the…

All Day VPK

Parents in Pinellas! Please read, call with questions, and apply immediately if interested in the all day VPK opportunity from the Early Learning Coalition.  When I saw the VPK all day option a few days ago, I was so excited to see a real community need being addressed.   The VPK voucher is for about three…