Testimonial from Samantha
About 9 months ago, we found out that my daughter had autism, it was a shock and has been something we have spent these last 9 months dealing with, as well as proactively seeking treatment for her.
We have gone the traditional routes with speech, occupational, and physical therapies for her (which are thankfully covered by insurance) as well as the biomedical route.
We also immediately started her on a Gluten-free, Casein-free diet. It is expensive but I have been able to find great deals using the coupons and match-up from your weekly Organic and Natural coupon posts.
One thing that kept coming up in my web research was a cookbook called “Special Diets for Special Kids“. I really wanted this cookbook, but couldn’t justify the splurge on our already tight budget — so I check my Swagbucks and saw that I had enough gift cards to cash out for $25 (which was enough to pay for the book!)
Another route I have been researching (and was happy to see your post on) was essential oils. I am trying go avoid medications whenever possible, but still keep my family healthy.
While we are somewhat obsessive about hand washing and have started taking a daily multivitamin and even probiotics, I wanted to try some essential oils too. I have been able to purchase “Essential Oils for the Healthy Child” as well as few synergy blends from Plant Therapy using my various on-line earnings, as well as a sample pack from Native American Nutritionals.
So how have I been able to make money online?
Most of the ideas below came directly from your website!!
1. Swagbucks:
I try to run the Swagbucks TV app on my phone or tablet throughout the day as well as do the Daily Poll, Encrave, NOSO, and Discover Content.
2. Surveys:
I have also signed up with several survey companies including Pinecone, MyPoints, Opinion Outpost, Survey Spot, Inbox Dollars, and MySurvey.
While I don’t do those every day or even every week, when I get a free moment or while I’m watching TV with my husband, I will do a few surveys. I have earned about $10 or more from each of those survey companies — which I then cash out to my PayPal account.
3. Coupon Apps:
My final avenue of income as a SAHM is coupon apps such as Ibotta, Jingit, Shopmium, Checkout 51, and Saving Star.
I check each of those after a trip to the grocery store and upload receipts to those for matching offers. Most of those have a PayPal option as well, which I often choose.
This has been a hard year for us, both emotionally and financially, with little money to throw around. But with using my precious free time (I don’t have much as a mommy to 2 preschoolers and an infant) I have been able to make a bit of extra cash to purchase some helpful items for my daughter and my family as a whole.
Thank you!
It’s heartbreaking to learn your child has a problem! I pray that she will thrive and your family will grow closer through this experience. I wanted to share something I recently heard on the radio–that research has suggested broccoli sprouts can be beneficial for autism! It’s definitely worth looking into and I hope it can help.
Thank you for being that mom! I’m a teacher who spent 4 years of college nannying for special needs families. I’m amazed at how much those experiences play into my everyday teaching now. Currently I have a little one that I believe to be on the spectrum, but mom is in denial. I’m offering as many whole group accommodations as possible, but he could really benefit from ones more tailored to his specific needs. I appreciate moms like you that are willing to offer help. Legally, I can only do so much without paperwork to back it up 🙁
This is a very real issue, so thank you for sharing your best practices! I have an Aspie who is 16 and it gets expensive. I will encourage you that though it takes a long time – life does get easier. 🙂
My 12-year-old son is also on the spectrum so I feel your heartache. Managing him — keeping him on task, dealing with paperwork, school accommodations, etc. — is almost a part-time job and I actually can’t work full-time since I never know when the school will call so I like your ideas on how to find ways to save money. I do a lot of surveys too and also online shop via ebates & have earned more than $150 in Amazon.com gift cards that way. Every little bit helps. Good luck to you and your family and thanks for sharing your story.
As a therapeutic horseback riding instructor, I have the privilege of working with many people on the spectrum. You are one of the mothers who immediately has my respect and admiration because you are actively seeking out any and every form of help for your child…..and not even finances will stand in your way. Of course, I whole-heartedly believe in therapeutic riding as an alternative therapy and have witnessed life-changing progress take place on the back of a horse. Many programs have sliding-scales based on income or have sponsors who absorb some of the expense making these lessons accessible for those who need it. Another plus, you meet other families and have an hour to recharge while your little one attends.
A book that you might find interesting is “Bright Not Broken” co authored by Temple Grandin.
I am so happy for you that you are finding ways to save/spending wisely that is helping your daughter. You are a wonderful mom and parent working to help meet her needs. When you have a chance take a look at this diet also: http://www.gapsdiet.com/
Thanks, Rachel, your kind words mean a lot, especially after a hard day. I have heard of the gaps diet but haven’t read up on it.
Applied behavior analysis is the only scientifically proven and data driven “treatment” for autism. There is no scientific evidence to support a special diet as treatment. Might I suggest looking for an ABA program near you, specifically a board certified behavior analyst to provide services. I’m not putting down what you have heard up until this point but as someone who has had extensive study and work with children with autism as well as a BCBA, I feel compelled to share this with you.
Andrea,
Thank you for sharing. My daughter is doing ABA as well and I know it is an important piece to the puzzle of autism.
I just wanted to offer you some support. My oldest son was diagnosed 7 years ago. It does get easier, but it is a always a challenge (not always a bad one!). I look at the gifts he has given us.
Thank you for your encouragement, Lee.
Great job, Samantha! Both my kids are on the spectrum, and it is expensive!!! Your resourcefulness is inspiring, and it makes me want to step back and make some plans for how we can afford to do more for our kids, too!
If you ever start a blog, look me up! I’d love to follow your progress!
Thanks, Mac! I would love to do a blog but I don’t think I have the energy right now, but maybe some day:) God bless you and your kids.
I have a daughter with Down syndrome and a son with autism. They are teenagers. There will always be challenges but it does get a bit easier as they get older. They are a treasure and blessing in my life. God’s blessings to you.
Sounds like you are being very resourceful.
Thank you, Bonnie. It means a lot to hear from a mom who has traveled this road.
I will keep your daughter in my thoughts and prayers. I would like to suggest something that would absolutely help her and save you some money. Check out the Wheat Belly Diet. It isn’t just about wheat or a big belly. : ) It is life-changing! It really speaks about those Gluten-Free products that are SO expensive and are really unhealthy in their own way. Do a search on FB or even go0gle “Wheat Belly”.
I have NO kind of affiliation with the book, except to say that it has changed my health. And, I have terminal brain cancer. Given that “prognosis” in late 2008! I am still here!
Thanks, Karen, I will look that up. Praise God you are still here after 6 years!!!
My heart and prayers are with you and your precious daughter. My son was diagnosed 5 years ago, and I know how overwhelming it can be at first. Sounds like you are doing all the right things. You can do this, momma!
Thank you for your encouragement, Lori!