One small moment. One quiet try.

Hey family, it’s Michael, back again with a Tuesday message.

This weekend, we did something that, for a long time, felt almost impossible.

We went to the movies as a family, to see Elio. I think this is only the second time we’ve ever gone to a movie theater together as a family. I still remember how big that first time felt for us.

But this time, it wasn’t just about the movie. It was about the process, the parts no one else really sees.

After the movie ended, as we were walking toward the exit, Christian asked to go to the bathroom. Right away, when I walked in with him, I noticed, no paper towels. Only those loud hand dryers.

Ufffff… I said to myself, brace yourself. 

If you’re walking this journey, you already know how tough that can be for a child with sensory challenges. The sound, the intensity, the overload… it’s a lot.

But here’s what struck me most: he tried.

He really tried. 

I watched him, struggling through the discomfort, pausing, breathing, listening to my voice guiding him through it.

We didn’t finish. It was too much for him. But it wasn’t a loss.

It was a step.

It was one of those quiet milestones no one claps for, no one snaps a photo of, but as a parent, you feel it deep in your chest.

Because growth doesn’t always look like crossing a finish line.

Sometimes it’s just being open to trying, and knowing when it’s time to pause and regroup.

That’s what this moment reminded me of: it’s not always about the perfect outcome. He dried his hands on my shirt… and Amanda’s dress… outside.

But it’s about progress, patience, and being present.

If you’ve had those moments too, the ones that don’t end the way you hoped, but still matter, I see you. I’m right there with you.

We’ll keep working on it. We’ll keep showing up. That’s what love looks like.

P.S. If you missed our last newsletters about milestones, piano recitals, and finding your rhythm as a parent, you can read them here:

June 10th Newsletter: A Special Birthday → Our first peaceful family meal without meltdowns.

June 17th Newsletter: Piano Recitals & Letting Go → Sometimes, the biggest milestone is learning to trust the process.

P.P.S. If you’ve had a moment like this lately, imperfect but meaningful, I’d love to hear about it. We’re all figuring this out, one small step at a time.

With love,
Michael
Dad, Advocate, and Founder of The Autism Voyage®

Parent Tip of the Week:

The future is unpredictable, especially as caregivers. Here’s how to plan for it.

If you’re raising a child with unique needs, chances are your caregiving role will extend well into adulthood. But what happens if your health changes along the way? Long-Term Care (LTC) planning isn’t just for the distant future—it’s one of the most loving, practical steps you can take to protect your family’s stability.

I recently shared a carousel on LinkedIn: 5 Reasons Families with Special Needs Should Plan for Long-Term Care Now, especially those navigating disabilities, neurodivergence, or complex medical needs.

It’s worth a read, and maybe a share with someone who might need it.

📢 Important Reminders

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