I Have a Special Needs Child

There needs to be more awareness in the general public. When people try to joke with a child who DOES NOT GET JOKES they are not being rude when they get upset, and if they turning away, averting their eyes, walking faster to outpace you, or covering their ears that's a pretty clear sign that they are not taking what you say as a joke. I know people don't mean any harm, but from a parent's standpoint hearing a child claim that "I really tried mommy, I just don't understand what they are talking about" is heartbreaking. Dealing with the backlash from just that situation can be even worse. THEY cannot read body language like you or I, but they put out pretty damn clear signals. Please pay attention to the 'please leave me alone' look on their face. I cannot even count how many times I have said to people "hey sorry, but he doesn't really feel like playing right now" and got an F U look in return. Autism really does speak, people need to learn to hear it.

Cajunfirefly · 41-45, F

Thank you for sharing. I have a 13 yr old on the spectrum. A few years ago I got in an altercation with a Children's Museum worker. She called my son rude bc he wasn't making eye contact with her. I said WTF! He has autism, he isnt going to make eye contact with you. She apologized and said he didnt look autistic. I lost it. People are ignorant.

Tinkerhell · 41-45, F

@Cajunfirefly I know right! Autism does not make them look different. If they work in a place where they may come in contact with a child or adult on the spectrum they better damn sure know how to treat them, and recognize the signs.