You know better than anyone the extraordinary journey of raising an autistic child.
It really can be all the things – overwhelming, surprising, scary, rewarding, challenging and a gift. Now you have the chance to pass on your wisdom to another caregiver. Parents mentoring parents – what could be better? That’s what our village is all about!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is this mentor thing all about? It’s about passing on your lived experience! Mentors should be able to dedicate two hours each month for meet-ups via video and in-person (when possible). Plus the occasional text or email.
- How long does it last? The relationship typically lasts six months to a year.
- What if it's not going great? We'll be checking in on you throughout the program to see how it's going. If you have concerns, you should let your Mentee know and hopefully you can resolve things on your own. But we're here if you need us.
Mentor DO's
- Set aside two hours per month for mentoring and keep your appointments.
- Be flexible on meeting times and places.
- Arrange frequent catch-ups through phone, email, text, face-to-face, etc., as appropriate.
- Respond to emails in a timely fashion.
- Keep all information confidential.
- Be open and honest, offer encouragement and help build self confidence.
- ABOVE ALL, LISTEN.
Mentor DON'Ts
- Try to give advice on everything.
- Encourage Mentee to be 100% dependent upon you.
- Make it all about you (share your personal stories if they are relevant).
- Be too busy if/when your Mentee needs support.
- Criticize.
