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My 15-year-old, whose autism is mild (like a combination of PDD-NOS and Asperger's), has an attachment to certain toys, such as Leap Frog's Alphabet Pal and See-n-Says.
A friend suggested that I make him get rid of the toys, since he's going on 16, and he needs to grow up a bit and I should be doing more to help him transition. He is very smart, though I'm uncertain if he'd be able to live on his own down the line.
I would like to see him ditch the toys--but he's so attached to that Alphabet… read more
@A MyAutismTeam Member I believe I would have to have a "conversation" with my ex about his new wife taking away my son's tablet. I'm a Mama Bear and there are some things you just don't mess with and to me that's a boundary that shouldn't have been crossed. I've been in the position of dealing with the new woman in Dad's life and I wasn't willing to sacrifice my son for my ex's happiness. If he loves those toys what's the harm? I thought my 18 year old son was too old for stuffed animals and I question my decision for taking them away constantly. If those toys bring him comfort let him have them.
@A MyAutismTeam Member I am so sorry you have to deal with that, I'm sure that's difficult on your son, as well. That is really unfair to take his tablet, I know my son uses his every day and it would be awful if someone took that from him.
Do you think it is just the colors and fun sounds that draw him to the baby toys? Does he like the educational aspect? If you can pin point what draws him to them it may be easier to others to explain to others why he likes them to avoid people judging and being rude.
Sounds to me like you are doing everything right, I wouldn't give a second thought to anyone's comments towards him.
My 14 yr old son is still very attached to childhood toys, especially toddler toys. It gives him comfort and I don't see the harm in it if it brings him comfort. I think for him personally, it is just a comfort thing, like a blankie or like nostalgia. He likes tech stuff, too...I'd rather buy a shape sorter than a 4 wheeler or motorcycle, ha ha.
Um, what's wrong with enjoying baby toys at home? Is he taking them out? Like to school? So it's different for a 15 year old to love something he's had since young l, but is that bad?
Also, my husband left for another woman, and she tends to be critical (she has a habit of sticking her nose where it doesn't belong and doesn't respect boundaries--she's very controlling). She once confiscated my son's tablet because he was doing image searches for baby toys.
When I take my son to Goodwill to buy stuff, I discourage him from buying baby toys with his allowance. I have only a couple of exceptions to this rule.
He does obey for the most part when I tell him to leave the toys at home, like if we're going to church or going to walk somewhere. Probably because he knows that when we're home they'll be waiting for him.
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