It was weeks before August 5th and I saw a giveaway that was going on on Facebook for Autism Eats -IE (I love giveaways). I entered in hopes of winning. I had seen Autism Eats come up in my Facebook news feed many times and was curious what it was all about. When I read about it I knew that this was something for my family (I have two autistic boys).
It was a place I wanted to attend. It's not often we get to go out with the boys and just relax and let the boys be who they are. When we go out I am always on guard to make sure the boys are quiet, not making loud noises and not getting up and down out of their seats. Autism Eats provides that calmness with in, to where a parent can let down their guard and enjoy an afternoon out without having others look at you, judge you and say things like: What is wrong with your kids, or can't you control them, or they are just brats maybe you should parent better. Oh I have heard it all. Being a parent isn't easy and it's for sure not easy when having kids on the spectrum.
Having a place to where everyone understands your story and no looks are given, or remarks are made is a place where I want to be with my family.
Getting back to the giveaway. I won, I was thrilled. We headed out to Rancho Cucamonga on August 5th and had the most relaxing time. My boys were who they are and we all enjoyed a great meal.
After brunch we sat and watched a magic show that was put on by the amazing Jonathan Molo.
The kids all responded to him and loved him. Especially my 10 year old. In fact he was saying how he wanted him at his next birthday party.
It was an afternoon to remember. I am so looking forward to the next one.
That afternoon press enterprise was also there doing an a story about this event. The article came out on-line and in print. I was thrilled to see myself and family in the article, I was even quoted. Here's the link for the on line article. Take a look and read all about it. Not only because I'm in it :) but because it also tells you more about Autism Eats and the reaction from others who attended and enjoyed it.
Maybe you're thinking this isn't for me, I don't have kids on the spectrum. It is for you because you can always donate and help out. Any donation is greatly appreciated and helps with sponsoring a family that may need to go but due to financial reasons can't.
Autism eats is non profit organization and any help/donations is greatly appreciated and is tax deductible.
What is Autism Eats Mission:
Autism Eats provides autism-friendly non-judgmental environments for family dining, socializing and connecting with others who share similar joys and challenges.
Please check out their website and go like their Facebook page.
Autism Eats - SEPT 16, 2017 - BJ's
BJ's Restaurant
11600 Amargosa Rd
Victorville, CA 92392
Time: 10:00am to 12:00pm
13+ years old: $21.50
6-12 years old: $12.00
2-5 years old $5.00 Under 2: Free
Delicious all you can eat pizza, pasta, salad, desert and soft drinks. Tax and tip included. Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions.
Order Tickets here
Autism Eats - Victorville - BJ's - Oct 28
BJ's Restaurant 11600 Amargosa Rd
Victorville, CA 92392
Time: 10:00am to 12:00pm
13+ years old: $21.50
6-12 years old: $12.00
2-5 years old $5.00 Under 2: Free
Delicious all you can eat pizza, pasta, salad, desert and soft drinks. Tax and tip included. Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions.
Order tickets here
Autism Eats - Rancho Cucamonga - BJ's Oct 29
BJ's Restaurant 11520 Fourth St.
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
Time: 10:00am to 12:00pm
13+ years old: $21.50
6-12 years old: $12.00
2-5 years old $5.00 Under 2: Free
Delicious all you can eat pizza, pasta, salad, desert and soft drinks. Tax and tip included. Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions.
Order tickets here
About Autism Eats :
Going to a family restaurant should be an enjoyable experience. A time to relax, enjoy good food and spend time with your family. Let someone else do the cooking and cleaning.
Unfortunately, for those of us who have a child with autism dining out can be anxiety provoking and stressful. As parents, we may feel that "all eyes are on us" when our kids exhibit certain behaviors, have outbursts or refuse to sit still. Other diners may be disturbed and the well intentioned wait staff doesn't really know the best way to help out.
Many of us decide it is just not worth the effort and that is unfortunate.
We created Autism Eats to bring the fun back to eating out.
Our dinner parties are held in private rooms of restaurants or function facilities. Food is served buffet or family style so there is no waiting. Music and lighting are adjusted to accommodate those with sensory sensitivity. These are family dinners and all attending have a loved one on the spectrum so there is no need to apologize, explain or feel uncomfortable. It is an opportunity to enjoy a night out and socialize with others who have many of the same joys and challenges in common.
Mission:
Autism Eats provides autism-friendly non-judgmental environments for family dining, socializing and connecting with others who share similar joys and challenges.
