Real World Autism Awareness - since it's the month for it.

 

Don’t be upset when I reply “no”, “nope” or “not today” when you raise your voice or ask me...

 

“Can you control your kid?”

 

I don’t care if he pressed all the buttons on the elevator, was too loud at the pool or started yelling or laughing without reason. I’ll speak with him later about it - when I know he’ll be responsive.

 

What I won’t say is ... “I’m sorry, he has autism,” to appease you. Saying this in front of him reinforces that he can use his behavior as an excuse or victim card. Your feelings mean zero to him and don’t come close to raising him to be an adult who will take responsibility and be accountable.

 

So, no I’m not sorry my son's laughing bothers you so much. Deal with it, piss off, or go away.

 

BTW: I didn’t always feel this way and was one of those parents that were very quick to say “I’m sorry, he has Autism.” It took me years to figure out that my son didn’t care or know there was an issue. My response was more about me taking the easy way out than thinking about his future.

 

More to come.