Are there any other Cmoms dealing with autism?
We have a (soon to be) ten year old daughter who is on the spectrum.
Her communication is about that of a two year old, yet her body still goes through all the physical and emotional changes of a little girl. The combination has been overwhelming lately! Sometimes it feels almost impossible to make that decision to walk out the day in a heart of worship; and yet, I know that is the only place I can find strength.

After searching programs and therapies, we made the decision to keep her home with our other three [we homeschool] and work with her ourselves where we know she will be loved and excepted. But as full time teacher, therapist, house and lawn keeper, I often "daydream" of getting a job outside of the house just so I can have a break!

Just realized there is a "special needs" category...oops! Haven't had a ton of time to navigate this site yet ;)

Yes, our son was diagnosed about 4 years ago, he is now 8 1/2 yrs old. I would love to chat with you :)

Our son is in public school :) He is in 3rd grade, at school he gets speech therapy, OT on a consultation basis and a consulting Autism teacher who works with him and his teachers. He spends about 75 % of his day in a regular classroom with support of an aide. We also done some extra OT through our Child dev. center.
I have thought about home school from time to time but feel for now this is where he needs to be and feel confident in our decision. I keep in daily contact with the school and have a good relationship with his teacher and aides.
We also do a gluten and casein free diet, it has been huge.
Can you get speech therapy at least for your daughter and maybe even some OT even if you don't place her in a public school? I think that would be so helpful for you both? Or do you have any friends from Church who would be willing to come work with her a little so you can concentrate on working with your 3 other children. I just know how exhausting it can be so my heart goes out to you! I am here any time you need some support!

Also there have been several books just written by Christian mothers who have children with Autism.
http://www.autismshiddenblessings.com/
http://sandrapeoples.blogspot.com/2011/07/speechless-finding-gods-grace-in-my.html