The first thing most people do when they see a child with autism or other special needs is to make a judgment, feel sorry for the parent or ignore them totally.
Individuals with special needs want what everyone wants, respect, acceptance and support. The first thing to do is smile, say hello and if it’s a child having a sensory breakdown the best you can do for the parent is to tell her ” you are doing a great job” you don’t know how much does six words mean to a parent dealing with a meltdown.
Our children’s response to different places and activities varies from child to child and parents shouldn’t be called “bad” or the kids shouldn’t be called “unruly” when you don’t know what they are going through.
Support, accept and respect individuals with autism and other special needs.
Henrietta Bassey, RN, BSN and ACAS