My son (7) was just diagnosed on the spectrum, he's high functioning, but is starting to become aware he's a bit different from his peers. My husband & I are now processing his diagnosis ourselves. I've heard there is a simple YouTube animated (for kids) video about Autism? Or is it not necessary yet? Any advice or thoughts is appreciated.
Answer Summary
Members shared deeply personal experiences and differing perspectives on whether to tell a seven-year-old child about their autism diagnosis,... Read more
My son was diagnosed at age 5 (almost 6) and I struggled with how and if to explain it to him but I knew I didn't want him to hear it from another kid or someone else. Kids at school and his cousin was already asking why he does certain things like stimming and "acting crazy" which I didn't know how to explain for him. So I did tell him after His Dad and I had a chance to process the information ourselves for a month or so. I doubt I explained it well, but I told him if he has any questions about it he can ask me anything. I also try to point out positive role models with asd.
In the spirit of altruism, I'm going to believe your motives were purely stemming from the fact that you did want to share a technique/book. What I took offence to, was the method you chose to deliver it.
Had you said 'Check this out, I found it extremely helpful.' I would have thanked you for sharing.
Instead, your comment was peppered with questionable absolute statements (and some, just wrong!) with a hint of aggression. Let me tell you Ricker1111, I "Step up to the plate" every single day, with ALL of my young children.
Regardless of your motivation, altruistic or financial or just for fun, in the future please think about what you are saying, and how you are saying it.
Oh really? I'm finding this answer fascinating. So if I "Step up to the plate" and buy this self published book via Amazon (written by you, I'm guessing, because how else would you give out the author's home phone number? I love George Martin's books, but I haven't got him on speed dial.)
"I guarantee you it will be the most rewarding experience of your life." (Bold words.. seriously?)
Then referring to my SEVEN YEAR old child as a "basket case" which according to you "(like over 90% actually are)" But fear not dear parent.. if I purchase this book, then my SEVEN YEAR old son can become a "successful [in every way] adult". Again, say what dude?
What I'm finding truly repugnant, is that you're exploiting a vulnerable group of people for financial gain. You may not realise, but lots of people on here are hurting, confused, angry, & sad. I know I am. I'm here to vent, laugh, & hug people who are going through the same thing.
But, let's end this on a positive note, I did get a chuckle when you referred to yourself as a "brilliant individual" that's classic.
@A MyAutismTeam Member x3 ...........I raised 4 children of my own......And Now I am raising my 4 Grandchildren.The oldest has had a diagnosis of Autism since he was 8 1/2,which really is rather Late in the game as far as I am concerned.Honestly I knew there were some things that seemed a little bit Off and Different about him but I just figured That it was just HIM....that it was just (His) Personality.......and it was just WHO he was..........and it WAS! It was His,.......("Autistic")...... Personality..... 😜Anyway The 2nd child just got a diagnosis of Autism less than a Month ago.And that is NOT because( I ) didn't know,OR because I waited to get him Evaluated and Tested It was because I could NOT get Anyone else to agree with me.....that They could See What I was seeing.I had a Very Difficult time getting the schools to agree to Initiate an evaluation .Or to even agree that my grandchild might need to be tested at all for Anything! Anyway I Now have 2 children done, and 2 more left to go.......so Who knows? I am pretty much expecting an Autism diagnosis for the younger two as well,I am just not sure how long it will be before it gets done.But I don't guess it should be that much of a shock or surprise to me if they are diagnosed..........and that the youngest 2 might have Autism as well.........First of all because they are BOYS and Autism apparently is a Very Common Condition........ ECSPECIALLY among BOYS And also I guess I should not be too surprised because Autism often has a strong Genetic Connection,Componet or Cause ,and 2 of the 4 children have already been diagnosed on the Autism spectrum already.Did I read on one of your past posts that you were a Nurse? .
@A MyAutismTeam Member I did tell my son the truth after his diagnosis when he was 7. He has never used it as a crutch or a tool to try to excuse anything. He has always strived to do his best in school. He is an honor roll student, a member of the National Honor Society and this school year will be taking classes part time at the local college. He is very well adjusted and has friends his age both neurotypical and those with special needs.