Military Parents Turn Lived Experience Into Lifeline For Families Navigating Autism

Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Jaime B. Parent and his wife, educator and Autism specialist Elizabeth “Tracy” Parent, say that firsthand guidance became an essential source of support when their son was first diagnosed. As they navigated a complex maze of healthcare, education and support services — all while managing frequent relocations and the demands of military life — they found their most trusted resource in other families facing similar challenges.

“We learned quickly that the best resource available was other families just like us who had already walked part of the journey we were just beginning,” Jaime Parent said. “We made a pact that when it came time for us to give back, we would.”

Today, they are fulfilling that promise with their new book, The Mission at Home: Navigating Military Assignments, TRICARE, Education, Benefits, and Everyday Life with Your Child on the Autism Spectrum. Based on decades of experience, their insights blend practical strategies with empathy, helping readers manage healthcare, education, benefits, and transitions during service and beyond.

“Even when services technically exist, waitlists, eligibility differences between states, and gaps between military and civilian systems can leave families feeling like they’re always starting over,” Tracy Parent said. “The emotional labor of this repetition — on top of the everyday demands of military life — can be exhausting.”

Honest and thorough, The Mission at Home is the only book of its kind that goes beyond school and healthcare concerns and provides additional information to help families:

• Ease transitions for children with Autism after a military move

• Manage a military career with a child with Autism or another disability

• Plan for school transitions and advocate effectively for their child

• Navigate TRICARE, EFMP, and other military programs with confidence

• Develop a long-term financial strategy

• Prepare for life after service, including housing and employment options

• Reduce stress and strengthen family resilience through proven tools

“Autism requires lifelong work and strategies,” Jaime Parent added. “Your mission at home matters as much as the one in uniform.”

The Mission at Home: Navigating Military Assignments, TRICARE, Education, Benefits, and Everyday Life with Your Child on the Autism Spectrum

Publisher: Bloomsbury

Release date: February 19, 2026

ISBN-13: 978-1538196823 Available from: https://www.amazon.com/Mission-Home-Navigating-Assignments-Education/dp/1538196824