Newcastle mum-of-two Beth Hunter was looking for more information about autism following her daughter Sadie’s diagnosis when she first heard about the North East Autism Society (NEAS).
Together with her husband she attended a session run by NEAS at a local community centre, focussed on helping parents understand and support their autistic children, where the family heard about the charity’s parent and toddler groups.
Beth began attending the Howdon toddler group two years ago with Sadie, now four-years-old, and the groups became somewhere the family could flourish.
Beth says: “It’s hard to put into words actually, it’s given us a safe space.
"People don’t think it still happens, but when you attend your typical playgroups there is still a lot of judgement from people who don’t understand autism and it actually makes you think twice about attending, which isn’t fair for the children."
“At the NEAS groups it’s a place where the kids can just be themselves, and where we as parents can relax,” Beth adds.
Sadie’s younger brother Billy, three, joined her at the toddler groups, and the two of them thrived in the sessions.
“I’ve seen the children grow in confidence as they are encouraged to just be who they are, surrounded by other children who are like them,” Beth says.
"I’ve seen both of my children engage in activities and communication here that I don’t think they would have ever tried had they not felt so supported and cared for as they do here."
The groups have been a huge benefit to Beth and other parents as well, giving them access to advice from trained professionals specialising in autism, and a space where they can meet, share tips, and support each-other.
Beth says: “It is lovely to have the support of friends and family but there is something about the support of someone that knows exactly what you’re all going through.
“Being able to learn from other parents, and the support of everyone at NEAS has been invaluable. I feel I can talk about anything with the other parents with no judgement, it really is the most supportive group.”
Above all else, the group provides Beth with a place she knows her children are secure and can build their confidence through play and exploration.
Beth says: “With two small children with additional needs, it’s often too difficult for me to take them anywhere alone. The group is something we can look forward to each week.
“I honestly can’t thank NEAS enough for their support over the past few years.”
