Building a Business With My Son on the Spectrum: Yes, It’s Possible,..Here’s How

One of my deepest dreams as a mother has always been to build a business with my son not just for him, or around him, but something we could work on side by side. As a mom raising a child with Autism, I’ve often wondered how to merge the world of entrepreneurship with parenting in a way that feels meaningful, doable, and supportive of both our needs.

Today, I’m proud to say: it’s happening.

Roman, my amazing son, is officially my business partner in our notary business. We’re learning and building together and no, it’s not always easy or perfectly organized but it’s real, and it’s ours.

What Roman Does in Our Business

Right now, Roman helps me file and assemble notary packets. This is a task that plays to his strengths: attention to detail, pattern recognition, and working with his hands. It also gives him a clear role and a sense of accomplishment.

We're slowly expanding his responsibilities. I’m currently teaching him how to use Google Calendar to help schedule appointments. We're taking our time, moving step by step, using visuals and checklists along the way. He’s learning, and I’m learning right beside him.

I’ve also started using an incredible job skills curriculum designed for individuals with diverse learning needs. It’s helping Roman grow in areas like time management, communication, and understanding work expectations. It’s a reminder that preparation and structure make a big difference when bringing your child into your business world.

Can You Start a Business With Your Child Who Has Autism?

Yes. You absolutely can. But you’ll need patience, intention, and a lot of grace for both of you.

Here are some tips if you’re considering taking this step:

1. Start with Their Strengths

Every child has something they’re naturally good at or drawn to. Pay attention to what they enjoy or excel at sorting, organizing, drawing, typing, hands-on tasks and build from there.

2. Break Tasks Into Clear Steps

Our kids often thrive with structure. One job at a time, broken down with instructions or visual support, goes a long way. Think: checklists, visuals, and consistent routines.

3. Think in Terms of Life Skills

Running a business isn’t just about profits t’s a life classroom. Your child can learn:

• Communication (greeting clients, phone etiquette)

• Time management (following a daily routine or schedule)

• Technology (emails, spreadsheets, scheduling tools)

• Money skills (invoicing, counting change, budgeting)

These are tools they’ll use forever.

4. Make Room for Patience

There will be moments of frustration. Things won’t always go as planned. And that’s okay. Celebrate progress over perfection. Focus on growth, not timelines.

5. Celebrate the Wins

Did they complete a task on their own? Make eye contact during a client interaction? Remember something new? These are big moments. Cheer them on.

This Is About More Than Business

For us, this isn’t just about building a successful notary service. It’s about building trust, communication, and connection between mother and son. It’s about preparing Roman for the future while allowing him to feel seen, capable, and included.

This path isn’t for everyone, but for those who feel called to it I’m here to say it can be done. It may not look traditional. But that’s the beauty of it.

Your life. Your way.

If you’re a parent considering starting a business with your child—especially a child with Autism—I’d love to hear from you. What ideas are you exploring? What’s holding you back? Let's connect and grow together.

Cheers