There are a few things that I feel like I really can't know enough about and autism is one of those.
Besides discovering new treatments, therapies, supplements, and methods of communication, education can be a very valuable tool in creating awareness and understanding in those not familiar with special needs.
I came across an article called "11 Myths About Autism" and thought it might be interesting reading for some of you. It's brief and won't take you long to read but the information it contains is quite helpful.
It might also be a handy tool to pass along to those people (even family members!) who are not quite sure what to make of a child with autism.
And while we're on the subject, there's a popular essay written by Emily Perl Kingsley called Welcome to Holland. It's one of the greatest ways to explain autism through the use of an illustration that I think all of us can relate to.
Take the time to read and educate yourself about special needs. It won't be the same as living it day in and day out, but a little understanding goes a long way.
And special needs parents deeply appreciate the effort.
Re: empathy, there's a brilliant new website that's been launched to educate and inform: http://www.autismandempathy.com/
ReplyDeleteI think that it's really important, especially when there are people who are respected in the autism field who are still touting the line that we're all essentially soulless and devoid of empathy.
I'm so glad to see this being addressed! Just another reminder that "experts" don't know it all. Thanks for the heads-up on the website.
ReplyDeleteNo problem! I like that it's a collaborative effort, not an 'us against them' site. They have a rotation of guest bloggers and encourage submissions from parents of autists. *nudges* :D
ReplyDeleteSome autist activism sites have a real edge of bitterness. It's understandable, and in some cases more then justified, but not always palatable. This is much more of a gentle angle of quiet correction, a portfolio of examples refuting a harmful fallacy.