Monday, April 18, 2016

Forget Everything You Have Heard Or Read About Autism

   It's autism awareness month and some people wonder what they can do to help the cause.  When my son was first diagnosed three years ago people either vanished from life or wanted to help in any way they felt they could.  That meant articles being sent to me about autism, books about autism, tons of advice (mostly unhelpful) and people gave me a lot of information on resources.  All of these things where great and even if they didn't offer us anything, the show of support was extremely comforting.

   Three years later if someone asked me what can a person do to help someone with autism my answer would be, don't treat them like they have autism.  Forget everything you have read or heard about autism and treat them just like everyone else.  Don't wonder if they are able to read your emotions or if they understand you.  Don't worry about causing a meltdown or doing something wrong that might make things challenging.  Don't assume a child who is not talking isn't listening to every word you say and don't assume typical play won't make an impact or bring laughter and smiles. Don't let the word autism get in the way.

   One of most amazing things I have watched happen with my son over the past three years is the impact people can have when the word autism doesn't get in the way.  People who invite us places and treat him just like a typical boy, knowing if any adjustments need to be made I will handle it, have made a tremendous difference in his life.  People that play with him just like they would any one else even if he pulls away at first.  All of these people become his favorite people and that gives him the freedom to just be a little boy.  No therapy, special adjustments, or tricks to be around him.  Just people treating him like he isn't autistic and I know that sounds odd because he is autistic but he is also so much more.  There is no therapy, diet, special app, or autism related article that can make someone feel important and accepted.

   If you want to help the cause, treat people with autism like they are so much more than autism.  Include them, play, talk to them, know them on level we all like to be known.  People who matter and feel the same way we all do.  People who aren't disengaged or unable to absorb emotions  because they are fully engaged and very much in touch with emotions and it takes knowing someone beyond a diagnosis to really understand that.