Autism & Inclusion

Inclusion begins at home. Families aren't perfect but they must be a safe space where everyone can feel loved, respected and included. Judy Singer, an Australian sociologist, coined the word “neurodiversity” in 1998 to recognize that everyone’s brain develops in a unique way. There's no “correct” way for the brain to work. Instead, there is a wide range of ways that people perceive and respond to the world. Like a person’s fingerprints, no two brains, not even those of identical twins — are exactly the same. The stigma around Autism often stems from misconceptions and lack of understanding. To promote inclusion, raising awareness and education are key.?

Conversations about disability, differences and struggles are often avoided because of their confrontational nature. We tend to skip conversing about topics that make us uncomfortable. The world is diverse and none of us are the same. Children should learn that these differences must be celebrated and not frowned upon, discriminated against or looked down.

Children today have an array of sources from where they can learn. Whether one is on the spectrum or not, I feel everyone should have the understanding of how Autism alters life and how inclusion can benefit us all as society.

Talking to kids about autism and disability can be done in a way that promotes understanding, empathy, and acceptance. Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Start with Empathy: Encourage your child to put themselves in the shoes of someone with autism or a disability. Ask them how they would feel if they were in that situation.

2. Use Age-Appropriate Language: Tailor your explanations to your child's age and level of understanding. Keep it simple and avoid using jargon they might not understand.

3. Focus on Similarities and Differences: Everyone is different. Just like everyone looks different, our brains are different too. Emphasize that everyone is unique and has different strengths and weaknesses, regardless of whether they have a disability or not.

4. Encourage Questions: Let your child know that it's okay to ask questions about autism and disability. Be open and honest in your responses.?

5. Highlight Abilities: Instead of focusing solely on limitations, highlight the abilities and talents of individuals with autism and disabilities. Help your child see that everyone has something valuable to contribute.

6. Teach Acceptance and Inclusion: Emphasize the importance of treating everyone with kindness, respect, and inclusion. Encourage your child to be a friend to everyone, regardless of differences.

7. Use Stories and Media: Utilize books, movies, and other media that feature characters with autism or disabilities to facilitate discussions and increase understanding.

8. Lead by Example: Model empathy, acceptance, and inclusivity in your own interactions with others, including those with disabilities.

9. Address Misconceptions: Correct any misconceptions your child may have about autism and disability. Use facts and personal stories to help them understand.

10. Promote Advocacy: Encourage your child to be an advocate for individuals with autism and disabilities by standing up against stereotypes, bullying, and discrimination.

By approaching the topic with sensitivity, openness, and honesty, you can help your child develop a positive attitude towards neurodiversity.

Encouraging empathy, celebrating neurodiversity, providing support and accommodations, promoting acceptance in schools and workplaces, and amplifying the voices of autistic individuals can all help combat stigma and create more inclusive environments. Start at home. Have these conversations. Together we can change the world and we will.