As a mum of kids, some with autism, I also get some of these questions asked about my kids. So I asked a couple of my autism mum blogger friends what they would share on some of them, here's what came back to some of the questions/comments. I've also thrown my tuppence in along the way.
- "Everyone is a little autistic" - You might be mistaken when I comment in 'Our different autisms' that the spectrum goes on and that's there is a functional cut off point that I might agree with this. I don't. Autism is an official diagnosis of a triad of impairments. It's possible that people can have autistic traits but they can't be 'a bit' autistic.
- "They don't look autistic." Really beggars the question, "How would he look autistic?" Stories about Autism agrees it's not a great thing to say and Faith Mummy shows that sometimes it is, but sometimes it isn't an invisible disability.
- "What's their special ability?" - No, not all autistic are mathematical or musical geniuses. Stories about Autism and Sunshine and Showers make the same point. However, a special interest can lead to enjoying and being good at something. And as A blog about raising my autistic son shows, this can be about numbers.
- "Autistic people can't feel empathy" - Here I have to wade in with one of my own posts. It can seem that way, but read about my son's empathy and it will completely change your mind! My son shows greater empathy than many I know when tries to protect his own bullies. Sunshine and Showers story agrees.
- "They could be 'normal' if they tried" ... I can't even begin on this one.
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Literally just posted about my son's "lack of empathy" as staff put it :(
ReplyDeleteA fantastic way to get back to this video.
ReplyDelete"They could be 'normal' if they tried" ... I can't even begin on this one. That's the best answer possible. Really enjoyed reading this post, for what it's worth!
#thelist
This is a really informative post that I hope lots of people read. I think it is really important to share your experiences so that others are aware, and are more understanding. #justanotherlinky
ReplyDeleteHi Ann, "they could be normal if they tried!"... Now that one is a classic. I'd love for those people to explain "normal". I do believe that unless you have lived with a person who is autistic it is hard to get your head around. Over the years, even some of the things that medical professionals say leaves me stunned.
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Oh this was so interesting and insightful and I can't thank you enough for sharing - I really enjoyed watching this and learning the perspective on autism from someone with autism - what a brilliant video - everyone needs to see this #ablogginggoodtime
ReplyDeleteHi Ann, such a great video - thanks for sharing. Everyone should watch this. I too have written posts about these issues like please don;t tell me my son looks normal or autistic people can feel empathy... Great to see autistic people challenging the stereotypes. Thank you for linking up to #ablogginggoodtime 🎉
ReplyDeleteBrilliant video. There needs to be more awareness like this. Thanks got linking up to #justanotherlinky xx
ReplyDeleteHi Ann - I found this really interest and ridiculous at the same time - the things people ask and say are just ridiculous! I am going to sit down and come up with some witty one liner come backs I think!!
ReplyDeleteThanks for linking to #ablogginggoodtime