- Joined
- Apr 10, 2018
More than anything, I think Chris should become a cautionary tale to parents who's children are given a diagnosis of Autism or any other developmental disorder/delay. Get early intervention, Special Education is nothing to be ashamed of. I realize that Barb and Bob were from the older generation where they just ignored the problems, but they didn't even give Chris a proper kick in the ass to make him behave like they did in the old days, you know?
What's more important: what the neighbors might thing, your pride, or your child's life, happiness and safety? I realize that giving up on the dreams you had for your child when you find out they're different can be devastating, but you have to adjust your expectations. And that's okay. Would you rather have a child who maybe doesn't have a college education or a high school diploma, but has a decent (albeit routine/boring/minimum wage) job, or a child like Chris?
I hate to use this term, but some children with Autism need to be trained in social cues, routines, etc. I hate using that, because we usually apply it to animals, but I can't think of a better one. The sooner you start that, the better. If they're beyond the age where an active fantasy life because concerning, you need to address it, otherwise you get a kid like Chris. You need to make plans for when you pass so that child (and those around them) are taken care of properly.
I realize that a lot of this has been said, it's just something that's been weighing on my mind the past few days. People with Autism can lead full, happy, productive lives. I feel that Chris is the exception rather than the rule when it comes to people with Autism.
Thank you for coming to my Ted Talk.
EDIT: And yes, I realize Autism is not Chris' only problem, but I feel like had that been addressed back when his first elementary school brought it to his parents' attention, he wouldn't be where he is now.
What's more important: what the neighbors might thing, your pride, or your child's life, happiness and safety? I realize that giving up on the dreams you had for your child when you find out they're different can be devastating, but you have to adjust your expectations. And that's okay. Would you rather have a child who maybe doesn't have a college education or a high school diploma, but has a decent (albeit routine/boring/minimum wage) job, or a child like Chris?
I hate to use this term, but some children with Autism need to be trained in social cues, routines, etc. I hate using that, because we usually apply it to animals, but I can't think of a better one. The sooner you start that, the better. If they're beyond the age where an active fantasy life because concerning, you need to address it, otherwise you get a kid like Chris. You need to make plans for when you pass so that child (and those around them) are taken care of properly.
I realize that a lot of this has been said, it's just something that's been weighing on my mind the past few days. People with Autism can lead full, happy, productive lives. I feel that Chris is the exception rather than the rule when it comes to people with Autism.
Thank you for coming to my Ted Talk.
EDIT: And yes, I realize Autism is not Chris' only problem, but I feel like had that been addressed back when his first elementary school brought it to his parents' attention, he wouldn't be where he is now.
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