How to manage your money

How to manage your money

Let’s talk about dealing with our money issues being a parent to an autistic child.  I hear a lot of complaints that it is so expensive to have an autistic child.  The therapies, the special schools, the specialists, it all adds up.

Firstly, we need to get our mindset right around this issue.  Of course it can feel overwhelming sometimes, but accepting this reality is the first step towards effectively managing your finances.  Now by acceptance, I don’t mean resignation, rather acknowledging the situation and taking proactive steps.  Understand that the financial strain is a part of your journey.  Embrace this reality with courage and determination, knowing that there are ways to navigate through it while ensuring the best for your child.

Budget

Some practical strategies to your financial planning is to budget.  Creating a detailed budget that includes all expenses related to your child’s needs.  This will also help you to understand where your money is going and where adjustments can be made.  A lot of the new schools include therapies in the school fees, which may be why they are more expensive.  There are also schools that don’t include them.  The therapies are often covered by medical aids, if you have a good one.

Aim to build an emergency fund to handle unexpected expenses.  I hear you say that you have barely enough for the regular expenses, but any small amount that is deducted from your salary into a savings account each month adds up in the long run.

Explore available financial aids, grants and programs that are specifically designed to support families with special needs children.  There are some government schools as well as tax deductions that you could make use of.  Local communities often also offer advice, resources or support.

It is important to educate yourself about what is available for autistic children and with so many children needing assistance, we are fast becoming a huge community.

How to manage your money

Despite these challenges, there is inspiration in this journey.  I just wrote an email about embracing your differentness (is this a word?).  We grow personally, we become resilient and empathic.  Connecting with other parents on similar paths can provide immense support and inspiration.  We get to celebrate every milestone, no matter how small.  Each step forward, each word we hear is a reason to be inspired and motivate.

My job is to help you make this all better and I have some tips to help you.  I want you to be thinking outside the box, think of the future and empowering yourselves.  Instead of complaining how expensive everything is, consider boosting your income.  This could look like freelancing, turning hobbies into side businesses, doing something from home, even swapping services with someone.

Self-care

I do urge you though, that the No 1 priority is your self-care to prevent burnout.  A healthy mindset contributes to better decision making. 

Start eating healthy.  It is proven that when autistic children eat healthier, a lot of their symptoms improve.  Cutting out sugar helps with ADHD symptoms, cutting out diary and often gluten makes a huge difference too.  Right now eating fruit and vegetables are a lot cheaper than processed foods.

As mentioned before, having a good medical aid or health insurance can hugely ease the burden of the medical expenses and the therapies.

I also urge you to think of long-term planning

Consider setting up a special needs trust for your child, so that if something were to happen to you, your child will be financially taken care of in the future.

This is a lot, I know, but it is possible to keep your head above water.  Most of us have never really been taught how to budget and generally if there is not a drain on your finances, it doesn’t really matter.  Right now though, as a parent to an autistic child, you need to be responsible to figure these things out.  They are depending on you to look out for them.  You can do this.  The help is available, all you need to do is ask.

Deep breaths mama’s.  You are strong and resilient and your love is fierce.  It’s not just about managing your money, it’s about creating a fulfilling and enriching life for your child, full of opportunities and love.

Till next week.

A

Xxx

If you are a parent navigating the unique financial landscape of raising an autistic child, allow me to support you on this journey. My coaching services offer tailored guidance on budgeting, financial planning and resource optimization specifically crafted for parents of autistic children.

Let’s work together to create a personalized financial strategy that ensures your child receives the best care without compromising your financial stability.  Sign up now.

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