Being a parent is an education and a gift.

But we all face challenges, whether we have an autistic child, as I do, or not.

While all kids are different and autism takes many forms, there are some things most of their parents can relate to.

As it is Autism Awareness Day (Thursday, April 2), I thought I’d give some insights.

1. Breakfast is at 7am

Every day, without fail. Prepare to stick to a routine that is more rigid than military training.

2. Coffee is your best friend

Particularly during the early years, bedtime can be difficult.

Things must be just so before sleep can even be contemplated. Be prepared to stay up til the AMs if they’re not.

3. Love comes in many forms

While your child may not hug, or even want to be touched, they really do love you with all their heart.

Watch out for those moments that reflect just how much you mean to them, however they choose to express it.

4. There’s no such thing as normal

Ignore people who use the word unkindly.

5. Orange is the new black

Black is white, up is down and left is right, if Google says so. Don’t try and argue the point, you will not win.

6. You’ll learn everything you ever wanted to know…

About Hitler, lizards, Minecraft and so on.

Your child will happily tell you all about their favourite things in intimate detail, regardless of changes in the conversation.

Go with it, you might learn something, and it’s a great bonding opportunity.

7. You’ll have to fight for their education

Some parents fight for years to obtain an education which is right for their child.

Anna Kennedy OBE even went so far as to remortgage her house to build a school for her two boys.

Built in 1999 Hillingdon school offers sanctuary to 150 children who are on the autistic spectrum.

8. A fairy dress is proper school attire

Just as pants are fine for home, at any age.

9. Some people will never understand

Due to a lack of knowledge or deliberate ignorance, you will hear chastisements from people in supermarkets or on the high street when your child is in a temper and they cannot be soothed.

Let it go. They don’t know you and your child are trying your best.

10. Honesty is the best policy

Always telling the truth can come in the extreme, and in the embarrassing.

‘Mummy, that man is too fat to sit there,’ is one of the less embarrassing exclamations you can expect.

11. Nothing gets past them

Own brand Cheerios over branded will simply not cut the mustard.

Counting them into the bowl and lining them all up before carefully adding milk is expected.

12. You’re not so different from other parents

Foibles and quirks aside, your child is amazing and you love them more than the world. It really is that simple.