“People ask why we want to foster a child when we already have our own daughter,” says Julie Lumb, mother of four-year-old Mia who is on the autism spectrum. “I reply that we have a fourth place at the table, and that we’re glad to share our home with a child unable to live with their own family.”
Julie and husband Matt are also happy to welcome a child with special needs, a confidence acquired from learning how to engage with Mia. They demonstrate how we can relate better to others when it’s done from a place of knowledge, which is the key message of World Autism Understanding Day.
The Lumbs, aged 37 and 40, had many questions at the start about foster care and approached MacKillop Family Services. “MacKillop is a well-known name out there in foster care. Now, with 10 months’ training, and the support that is available, we feel prepared to be foster carers.”
Mia shared in the couple’s decision to open their home and look after another child. She is excited to meet her new friend, and her parents look forward to helping them get to know each other, to play together and share a home.
Mia’s lack of play was one of the early areas of concern for her parents. “She would sit with her back to us, and not invite us into her world.”
Since her autism diagnosis at age two, Mia has seen a play therapist while her parents have learned more about how to engage with her. “It’s a long journey between where you start, and when you have the diagnosis,” says Julie. “Once you process all that, however, it’s nothing but understanding what’s needed.”
Early diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) helps a child get the support they need to develop their communication, social and life skills.
Mia is articulate and confident, and her social media page Style on the Spectrum, which her mum manages, showcases her love for dressing up. “We wanted to create a positive profile in the autism space,” says Matt. They seem to be succeeding, with the page now attracting a thousand followers.
Matt and Julie encourage others to enquire about foster care, including those with special needs. “There’s a lot of joy to be found, and a lot of support out there,” says Julie. “Just speak to the right people. It makes a difference to have that advocate, someone to help you and to rely on.
“We were inspired by the stories of other foster carers. So now we’re telling our story to help others make a positive change.”
“And to help with a happy ever after,” Matt affirms.
