There have been several media occurrances lately that have dumbfounded me about autism. The first was a family asked to leave a restaurant because their young child with autism was disturbing others in the restaurant. The second was a statement from Michael Savage and his thoughts on autism.
We all have different experiences and thoughts about various subjects and some people have not had the opportunity to come in contact with anyone with a disability. I feel as though those who make statements and choices such as those noted above should be informed about what autism is and how it effects a family.
I have not run across any feedback from others about Michael Savage but I did see many remarks regarding the family and they were quite disturbing. Autism is not a choice, it is not something that allows a family to do anything they like, and it is not something that people can fully understand. It is also not something that telling a child to "cut the act out" will help. In fact, being a behaviorist and a mom I can say that that type of disciple is the worst. It doesn't address why the child is doing what they are doing and it doesn't give them voice to what they tried to communicate with the behavior in the first place.
The following websites are just a few of many out there with information about autism. Unfortunately the numbers of children diagnosed with autism are on the rise. I hope that people will learn about and learn from those with autism instead of criticizing something they may not understand.
CDC
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
Autism Society of America
Autism Speaks - they have a statement on Michael Savage's remarks
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2 comments:
Well this is certainly a much more pleasant antidote to the bile of Mr. Savage and you're right, Sami is pretty darned cute.
Newbie visiting from Feminocracy.
Best wishes
Thanks! =)
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