MK- that's why they say the saying "if you've seen one kid with autism, you've seen one kid with autism" *because* it is SO different for every child.
My DS did not have repetitive behaviors, was fine with transitions also. He had very mild stimming- but maybe it was just "nervous energy"? ok, it was most likely stimming. No one except for the Pysch who Dx him has ever thought he had Autism. No one would ever even suggest it. Of course I have TOLD ppl and his therapist knows, they don't question it- it isn't their job... well, some HAVE questioned it. I think with mild or high functioning- whatever name you want to give it- it is just such a fine line or gray area....
Does my child being possibly gifted make him less aut? or does his autism make him come across as less gifted?? There is no denying he is s.m.a.r.t.
The point I think what many are saying-- an Autism Dx is NOT a horrible thing. It doesn't have to be. For us it was a means to an end- DS rec'd needed therapy ie speech, adaptive skills(he currently is getting this- mainly to tie in his pragmatics in social setting). I/we have not treated him any differently than another child. We expect no more or less from him. Wait, I am more patient with him! **that's a terrific thing***
*kids who are simply just HG etc also sometimes need social help! another gray area- and the HG kids do NOT get social or adaptive or speech unless maybe a Dx of apraxia-
You need to do whatever it is that you feel is right for your child. Just don't let the word "autism" freak you out much. It is just a word. It doesn't define your child. It doesn't define mine! My DS is all typical boy with a few quirks. Again, you wouldn't ever know he had a Dx. He's bright, fun, funny (loves to joke and make ppl laugh),super sweet, has tons of empathy for others, and cares about the future of our planet and humans in general- he is very spiritual all on his own in this aspect (can be a lil bit freaky even asking stuff he shouldn't even be aware of!- i think this is the gifted side with maybe the auts innocence?)
If your child isn't on the spectrum, that is ok too ;)~
Last edited by cc6; 03/19/13 12:00 PM. Reason: typo
