“Here we go again!”

Whenever I hear this phrase, I think of the Abba song, which by the way is one of my favourites!

Where did the summer go? It seems like just yesterday, we were so happy to be free from the routine and looking forward to some summer fun.

Well, it has already come to an end! I guess that’s as the saying goes, that all good things must come to an end.

But just as we look forward to something enjoyable, we must be grateful for fun times we had during the summer months and anticipate what is to come.

So, “here we go again!” Yes, I sing the song in my head especially when I think about lunches, homework, teachers, activities – you name it. It is coming……….

Fall is such a great season. For those who are in school, it means getting back into the school mode schedule and for others, it may just be back to some regular scheduled activities or regular meet-ups with friends.

Whatever it may be for you, it is happening now.

For those with autism, routine and schedules play an important role in their lives. They decrease anxiety and create a comfort of what to expect next. School is one of those things that provide calmness in people with autism at least that is what my experience has been. So as much as I am not looking forward to jumping back in, it is a very good thing to be going back for all of us.

We’ve had some stress in our previous school year, so I am personally a bit apprehensive about it but I know that with God’s help, we can get through anything.

That’s the great thing about being a child of God. You can always count on Him to be with you at all times and even in the hardest moments of your life.

Whatever the fears or concerns are for your special needs child, always remember that God is there, He cares and He will never let you down.

I like the verse Deuteronomy 31:6:

“Be strong and courageous.

Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you.

He will not leave or forsake you.”

As you move in the fall season, move forward with peace and calm and remember how much God loves you!

Shelly Wedge

Exceptional Family Ministry Coordinator

Amberlea Church