Hey there! Let’s talk about something super important – being Autistic with a capital “A.” If you’re a parent or caregiver of an Autistic kiddo, it’s essential to understand that being Autistic is a part of their identity, not just a diagnosis.
Using Autistic with a capital “A” is a way to show respect for Autistic individuals and celebrate their unique strengths and perspectives. It helps move away from the old-school medicalized language that used to be used to describe Autism.
Here’s the deal – being Autistic is not a disease that needs to be cured. Autistic people have challenges that come with their condition, but it isn’t all doom and gloom. Autistic people have their own ways of experiencing and interacting with the world. They might have strong attention to detail, a keen sense of justice, or a unique problem-solving style. Often they have an exceptional talent or interest that brings them joy and purpose. As the saying goes, if you’ve met one person with Autism, you’ve only met one person with Autism. Everyone’s experience is different.
As a parent or caregiver, it’s essential to focus on the strengths and abilities of your Autistic kiddo rather than just their challenges. That means creating an environment that celebrates their differences and helps them thrive. It could be something as simple as finding a school with sensory-friendly classrooms or advocating for assistive technology and support from professionals.
To sum it up – being Autistic with a capital “A” is something to be proud of! If we want to be true allies, our job is to respect and celebrate their differences so that we can help Autistic individuals achieve their full potential and live happy, fulfilling lives.