As an elder sister of a wonderful autistic kid, every new year presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. While many people worldwide set resolutions for themselves, as a sibling of someone with autism, my approach to New Year resolutions is framed by the love, understanding, and support I provide for my sister. I want to share my insights on embracing the new year and fostering a supportive environment for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Before setting any resolutions, it's crucial to have a deep understanding of autism. Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior. Every person with autism is unique, and embracing their differences is the first step toward creating a nurturing environment.

Instead of focusing solely on personal goals, I have learned to appreciate and celebrate my sister's achievements, big or small. This could include progress in communication skills, successful social interactions, or even mastering a new hobby. Celebrating these victories boosts her confidence and strengthens our bond as sisters.

One of my resolutions revolves around promoting inclusivity in all aspects of life. This involves creating opportunities for my sister to participate in family activities, school events, and social gatherings. By fostering an inclusive environment, I contribute to her well-being and help break societal barriers.

I have also taken on the responsibility of advocating for autism awareness. My resolution is to educate those around me about autism, dispel myths, and encourage understanding and acceptance. This benefits my sister and contributes to building a more compassionate and inclusive society.

Another resolution is to continue volunteering my time in the autistic community as a basketball and track coach to a group of autistic children aged 11-18. This will help them learn the techniques to play a sport and interact with others in a team setting. Their excitement of accomplishing a small skill, like dribbling, is rewarding and motivates me to continue giving back.

While caring for a sibling with autism is rewarding, it can also be emotionally and physically demanding. Recognizing the importance of self-care, my resolution includes dedicating time to recharge and engage in activities that bring me joy. Being a well-balanced and resilient elder sister equips me better to provide unwavering support to my autistic sibling.

As the new year unfolds, setting resolutions takes on a different meaning for those of us with autistic siblings. By advocating for awareness, we can create a more loving and supportive environment for our autistic siblings and contribute to a more compassionate society.