Thread by @IMNCanada

I'm unable to take part in the CAHS #NationalAutismStrategy consultation sessions today due to the fact that I'm with my kids all day, but I wanted to leave a few tips for parents who are taking part, especially mothers. 🧵/1

1) CAHS admins will ask you...repeatedly...to include your full name. DO NOT DO THIS. Your first name is just fine.

The reason you don't want to do this is that you will be in the main room for approx. the first 45 minutes along with "Actually Autistic Self Advocates". /2

Since some of you have been threatened and/or harassed in other ways by these people, be smart, protect yourself, and use your first name only. For the record, I've openly noted that these threats take place with CAHS admins, but it's likely not enough. /3

2) Don't open the chat until you're sure you're in the correct breakout room. You will be put in a breakout room after the first break. This will allow you to avoid reading things that could potentially upset you.

3) Make sure you're in a breakout room with fellow parents. /4

You may notice some of the "self-advocates" speaking up about not being in a room with their friends and saying other things that clearly aren't things parents would say. If that happens, you're in the wrong breakout room. Flag the room moderator immediately. /5

4) Speak in the breakout room, but try to avoid things that will identify your child if at all possible. Speak to larger picture issues. Speak to capacity. Speak to the incorrect classification of medically necessary therapies as often as possible. (Definitely do that.) /6

CAHS does lay out a clear expectation that whatever happens during a session is meant to remain confidential; however, that doesn't necessarily mean that people will adhere to said expectation. Be careful, and protect your kids. /7

In other words, treat the CAHS #NationalAutismStrategy sessions as you would any other social media conversations: advocate, share your thoughts and ideas, but first and foremost protect yourself and your family. /8 /END