Adriana Saldaña Autism really isn't as evident in adults as in children though. I have autism and it used to be substantially more noticeable when I was a young child than it is now. I'm 16 btw if that has any significance. Actually, autism sometimes even completely disappears by adulthood, but that is rare.
Nate Cahnman mine is more prominent now as an adult. I was doing ok-ish in social situations as a kid, but as social situations became more complex with age, I got completely lost. My emotional development is also behind which is also more prominent now as an adult.
I'm on the autism spectrum, high functioning- my mum never treated me differently from my siblings. I thank her everyday for that- no, I don't have friends, find social issues tough BUT I have done very well for myself.
@@juliacarl584 I am from India and my son is Autistic, My son has recovered a lot with an ayurvedic medicine and I really want this Ayurvedic medicine to spread all over the world. It is affordable by almost everyone Please connect with me at thenobleacademyy@gmail.com
I'm on the Autism scale, higher functioning, still have difficulties but I did earn a Bachelor's Degree. I wish I'd had help during the first 15 yrs. of my life.
jnia fowler I am too. I didn't earn a bachelor's degree however, as I'm not in college yet. I've had a lot of one-on-one in my life, due first to to social problems, now it's really just for math, and I can tell you it certainly has helped me a lot.
I am glad for you Zoey. I found that sitting near the door in my classrooms helped lessen my anxiety and fear of getting stuck in the classroom behind a lot of my peers. I just learned recently that 80 to 90% of all of the worlds technologies and innovations, and discoveries have been made by people with a spectrum disorder. So hold your head high.
You give me so much hope as I cry for my son who is 5. He had to be picked up from prekindergarten today for karate chopping a peer and hitting the principal. He was diagnosed with Aspergers a week ago. I love him so so so much I just want him happy. I just want him to feel safe and happy in the world. I pray he grows up and sees that I always love him and the world doesn't matter it only matter how he feels about his self. Because in reality were all programmed to hate ourselves even neurotypical people. Keeper keep pushing on you deserve to be happy
@@withintheshyness What a great technique! It's sad that being looked in the eye is the only way most of society believe they're being listened to. I grew up believing that. Looking right at someone meant being focused on that person. Meeting my son at age 7 (he's turning 25 in a few weeks) and learning about neurodiversity, my views have shifted. Not just about what focus means, and doesn't mean, but about perception, about education, about tolerance and limits and prioritizing. Being the mom of someone on the spectrum has made me a better person.
@@kathleenh2782 Sadly, ignorance leads to people getting huffy "are you listening to me?!" I understand the urge to just not be in those situations by whatever means of escape possible, but try to use those moments as opportunities to educate. If only there could be a switch that engages a neon word sign over the head. "I'm not looking at you but I am listening to you." Neurodiversity!
@@withintheshyness That's what I do with dogs. Often times they feel challenged if you stare at them in the eyes until they are comfortable with you. It let's the dog know you indeed see them but you mean them no harm. Interesting. It's not something I would have used with a person but if that's helpful then it's helpful.
My younger brother has autism. Hes in his 30s. He is non verbal, not toilet trained and violent. He has punched police, doctors and my elderly parents. I love him and we are trying hard to keep him at home but its increasingly difficult. Unfortunately he's a 1 and half taller then me and a hundred pounds bigger. Not even the hospital can care for him. I love him. I remember when he was little he could talk, he would hug me. Now he barely acknowledges anyone. Im not whining, I want you to understand
Colleen Alexander, I’m sorry about your brother. My aunt had it. When I was 5 and misbehaved my dad threatened to send me over there for the summer. I met her only once, so I don’t have a concrete memory of her, but From what I remember I did get in her face and received a bloody nose. Her autism was the exact same version as of your brother. She was in her 50’s at the time.
@@Brooke-bl3yq many cases of autism in my family through several generations, the latest is my grandchild. A brother, a niece, a grandchild, second cousins and even a grandparent. I have to be honest, i am very heartbroken.
My boyfriend and I are both autistic with ADHD. He is a chemical engineer and I am a programming teacher. We certainly both have ways that we struggle in life, and plenty of the ways we acted as kids were no different than some of these children. But we grew up to be independent adults that can take care of ourselves. Also, both of us come from families with also AuDHD parents and siblings, plus some of my parents' siblings and parents. Autism runs in families and doesn't have to be debilitating. If you are the parent of an autistic child, please don't view it as some mysterious disease only affecting your kid. I understand it is hard- late potty training, minimal communication, tantrums- but there is a reason for everything your kid is doing.
I hate how the mom said"I wouldnt wish autism on anybody" and here I am grateful for the most unique son God blessed me with , no matter his mood swings.
And next time anyone is in a supermarket and sees a child / young person having a meltdown or 'behaving badly' give the parent a smile of encouragement. Chances are they are great parents and the situiaon might not be as it looks.
Sorry, no. How about next time these breeders are out to eat and their kid throws a fit the breeders should apologize for the noise and the hold up to all the non breeders who chose not to have kids because we don't like loud noises and the world is already overpopulated.
How about you and your bigoted ass get on the internet and do some research as to what autism actually is. People like you don't make the slightest effort to understand things you don't already know about, and treat the topic with snide derision as a result. The world would be a much nicer place for everybody involved if people like you actually tried to care. Meltdowns happen because the autistic brain is hypersensitive to sound, light, texture and colour. An environment like a supermarket can be terrifying because the autistic brain can't filter any of that stimuli out, a process that you take for granted. Imagine what it would be like being in a supermarket when you're relentlessly battered with bags rustling, people talking loudly, electrical humming, vivid colours and forceful adverts in every corner, the clinical flickering beat of those strip lights, tinny elevator music bouncing off the walls, the sound of metal grating on metal every time the door opens and closes, not being able to take your eyes off a certain tile on the floor because it has a large crack in it, the feeling of disgust you get when you pick up a fruit and the texture disagrees with you. The autistic brain is super, super aware of everything around it and it can be overwhelming. Especially in an environment where you are trying to also be aware of the people around you. It's too much for the brain to handle and that is expressed by a meltdown. Next time you see a kid having a meltdown in public, remind yourself that it's their way of processing far too much sensory information at once and they're not having a temper tantrum. I will not excuse my child for doing the only thing that comes naturally to them. I'm sorry that autism causes YOU so many problems.
Well non breeder brains are also super aware of everything that goes around us and don't want to hear the screaming or see the hand flapping. Why is the autistic's sensitivity more important than everyone else's? FWIW I hate all children that make noise, even the non-autistic ones.
alexander seems so confident and outgoing! in fact, all of these kids seem to really be thriving within this supportive environment! i hope they're all well
I have autism and those special needs schools really do help us. I don’t know where I’d be without the amazing special needs school I went to. In only a few years they helped me go from an autistic child with no coping mechanisms, no confidence, no ability to control myself or express myself to an autistic adult who ended up going through (and excelling at) a mainstream college. I’m now even doing something I never thought I’d be capable of doing; Scuba diving! I still have issues and I’ll always be autistic but thanks to those amazing teachers and therapists, I’m a much better person and can communicate very well. I honestly don’t know where I’d be without them and I only got the help by the time I was 13 due to only being diagnosed at 11 years old... I imagine if I was diagnosed a lot earlier, I would have been even better than I am now.
Hello! I was in special classes when I was growing up! I think my school could have done a lot better, but it is hard to find supportive people. This was my reply to another post, but I would like to share my experience with others. Of course, I still have a lot to learn, so please feel free to correct me or to add on 😊 Autism has to do with the way your brain is wired. Everyone is different with different DNA, hence everyone has a different brain. Of course there is nurture, but that does not change our DNA or brain structure. Normally the worst that can occur from a vaccine is that the virus components make the patient sick with those actual viral symptoms like if one were sick. I work at a preschool from age 3 month old to 5 years old and it is obvious that people do not just drastically change, or barely change at all for that matter. I am autistic myself so it is actually easy for me to spot others with autism. To be honest, I’m not sure why they say you can’t notice autism until infants are older, because it seems pretty obvious to me 😅 the infant teacher at our school is also really great at telling, she also might be autistic though too haha, she is very in-tune with the nature of her students and has had decades of experience with early childhood education. There has been one case where one infant had a mental “regression”, for some reason when he turned one year old he started to loose many of his behaviors and almost became like a vegetable that wonders around and runs into walls. One of the teachers told me he developed autism, but I just don’t think so… usually autism (is pretty obvious to me lol) even from mild to prominent cases has some sort of sensory mind in some way or another and they tend to be sensitive, but this kid was not at all like that. (Child was removed from school a number of months after his regression). I think autism was a very easy way to say this kid has a problem. What that problem is seems really serious, while autism (can be very serious depending on the parents’ and teachers’ reaction and treatment), but people with autism can still function, it’s just that they are functioning differently from most people. It can even be very different from others with autism! People are already so different, but when you throw autism in there you get even more variety of people and more fun (: It’s sad, a lot of my coworkers are impatient with the autistic children, even the ones who are lower on the spectrum. It is really sad, because all they need to do is change their mindset to better understand how this child is thinking. Just because they think differently doesn’t mean too much for them, what it means is that the parents and teachers need to work with that person/child/infant DIFFERENTLY than most kids, because their brain is operating differently. There’s really nothing wrong with it 🤷♀️ what can be wrong is how people around perceive that person 😔
When I was well enough to work I worked in local nurseries and one of them inperticular had 20 out of 40 students with learning difficulties or disabilities and 12 were autistic. One thing I found particularly annoying was that because the children didn’t always join in with didn’t storytime or song time the other staff members stopped inviting or encouraging them. One instance one teacher was doing song time outside as I was singing along whilst watching the children who wanted to play on the bikes. One autistic boy who never sang before started singing so I asked if he wanted to do song time.Before he could answer the other teacher told me he won’t do group activity’s. Ignoring this I asked again he said yes. I asked him to “please get off the bike” said “no” and I then said “ok please get off the bike and I’ll take it with us for you to sit on for song time” he got off took my hand and walked over to join in for his first group activity. I went back to sing and watching the other. Every day for every activity I would encourage everyone join in. One day I got everyone including the children who usaly don’t by encouraging and making a sticker chart and a put it next to the list of rules recapping rules daily made a huge positive change for them.When they go five stickers they could choose a story, song or special toy from the reward chest I put together. They also got the same amount of stickers in their daily diary to show their parents and family and everyone got claps for every x
To me it was the most difficult thing to cope with regarding autism. I still remember the day I woke up and couldnt recognize my own daughter. Its like losing a child, like theyve been swap with somebody else who looks exactly like them. I love her to death, but I sometimes catch myself wondering what this little girl could have been and I feel awful for it.
I'm confused as to what your saying here!! I have an autistic child & I expect that others shall not judge unless they have had to deal with what we all deal with. That includes anyone that goes through experience that most are unaware of. Self harm being one of those factors!!
The divorce rate among parents of autistic children is around 85%. I applaud all of these couples who are still together and supporting each other, and doing everything they can to help their children.
I have asperger's, which is a form of autism. Luckily, I grew up with a loving mother that always accepted me for the way I am and encouraged me to be myself. Now, I am a straight A student in college making my way to a Doctoral degree in Psychology. Autism is a gift. I would never, ever trade it out to be "normal."
When Patrick says a complete word and does well his mother often does not respond it would really help if she did serve and return according to a university study
My little brother has autism he was the cutest most happy toddler I had ever seen every morning when I came downstairs he would run up to me and give me a hug and his smile could light up a whole room
My grandson has autism..he is 3..and his parents are on top of it like white on rice. He is adorable... however..just now speaking.. I love him with all my heart!!
Love the playful banter/connection between parents as they both straining to provide amazing care to two young boys both diagnosed.. "If I don't (have time to) get a cup of tea, why do you?" , "because I'm special". props to a beautiful family!
my child has autism and my filthy mom refuses to have anything to do with her calls her a monster and never has met her! I cut her off my life permanently . my mother has worse tantrums and she is in her 60s
+Gigi ItzMe unfortunately i know my mother and she is not a human at all I have tried to ignore her but she has Always been a horrible person always. she is toxic and was extremely abusive . my daughter does not need a grandma like that.
Lacy,What I was saying is that only you know your mother and not a stranger.You are doing what ever you need to keep your child safe. I have Autism and my own mother is toxic. She'll never understand me, won't even try.
It's important to remember that there is huge variety in how people with autism function in everyday life. Those saying that autism doesn't need to be "cured" might never have met a non verbal, non communicating adult with severe behavioural issues, whose parents are growing older & are increasingly unable to care for their adult child. Also vaccines do NOT cause autism!!!
Cassandra Duchaine So true, autism doesn't just take place in children, many adults end up grow up with this but some manage to cope. A cure for autism isn't what we need, it's acceptance. There is no proper cure discovered, just ways to cope with it.
kaena011 Of course I understand they do need help in the way that helps them AND the people around them, I meant for parents to try to make their children feel as wanted as any 'normal' child. Neglect or not understanding about the child's autism therefore not knowing how to teach them to cope with it usually ends up that the child will grow into an adult and not adapt the way they should have (like making proper conversation and doing social/group activities). That's why many adults aged 20+ tend to find it difficult to fit in with others and lead to mental disorders (such as social anxiety). I simply meant for parents to be more accepting of their child being autistic yet still give them a normal, happy childhood without isolating them (which worsens their problem).
florantia I'm sorry but speak for yourself. I have high functioning ASD and I would like nothing more but be free of this. It's making my life hell. I seem normal on the outside but in reality I'm really strugling with everyday activities like paying bills and keeping contact with people I know. I have one kind of close friend that I only talk to every few months.
Pootin Pootin I understand that, I may not have a hard time as you. And I know how much harder it is. However, from my background I've had help all because of my mother. Doctors kept telling my mum, "she's just a quiet girl" and "there's nothing wrong with her" I was her only daughter and I have 3 brothers, so she picked up my actions way back when I was a toddler. She fought for fucking 8 years during me being in school and I finally got a diagnosis, and I'm very grateful for that. If I never had the mother I had today then needless to say, my life would be absolute hell. Children and adults with autism need awareness and since most autistic adults nowadays are being blamed on their behavioural issues (as to not getting the support they needed when they were younger), it's becoming a problem to spread that awareness. I have imagined myself sometimes if I could get rid of it, but I know that because you may have ASD or anything else on the autistic spectrum, doesn't mean you can't accomplish anything in life because of it.
How can a child having autism feel like your child has died? I get its hard my 3 year old daughter is autistic but I wouldn't change her for the world she is so loving and caring even tho she doesn't make eye contact or answer to her name and has very little speech but she is amazing
I was shocked when i heard that too ! I found out my baby girl have autism , i was sad yes because we know all the difficulties people with autism go through and the bullies, but i love my child even more then before
When they say it feels like the child has died...its a metaphor...What they mean, is that thier hopes and dreams/ expectation of their child has to shifted / died... And for some parents its feels much like a death of a dream...Just like many of us wanted to go somewhere for spring break, that dream has died because there are no flights going to many island countries due to the Corona virus..
Wow, you're so much better than everyone else. How dare you judge. You have an easy autistic kid, but many do not. You need to develop some compassion.
Autism runs in my family. I have two nephews who are high functioning. The absolute WORST thing to see them go through is the terrible bullying. Even the teachers get very annoyed with them due to their behavioral issues and have allowed the harassment and meaness to go on. There have been teachers who ignored all of their special requirements to reduce the amount of problems with other children, causing them to to lash out at the bullies physically and getting suspended. I'm not justifying their reactions, but this has happened in two different school districts and teachers. My (then) 6 year old nephew even heard his teacher tell a parent he was an irritating or bad kid. If people would learn to be more kind to others and if there weren't such horrible school teachers the world would be so much better. Even if autists are annoying just leaving them alone is better than bullying them!
i dont agree with ignoring their bad behavior coz thats not helping them or teaching them how to cope or be a kind human being despite being autistic, my son told me there is an autistic kid in his school who called told him “go back to where you came from” my son spoke to the special ed teacher and told her about what the autistic kid told him and the teacher responded” dont do anything about it coz he is autistic” my son was upset coz he said that autistic kid is a racist and he bullies asian kids in school because he knows he can get away with his bad behavior
Based on the clothes I think this film was made in the early 90's. I wish they would make a new documentary with updates on these families and how these children ended up.
Me too! I know a few of these parents, and they are absolute saints, wonderful people who work tirelessly to keep the schools going and the kids safe and happy. Not everyone has had a happy ending. I think it would be useful for people out there with no experience with the autism spectrum to see an honest, real-life follow-up. Life continues to be hard, often much harder once the kids are adults.
Typically those who have a good degree of high functioning autism are the ones who are most vocal about being accepted in society, and I don't disparage them for feeling the way they do. However, autism is a disorder that takes many forms, and my child will never be able to live independently, dress himself without assistance or even bathe without assistance. He's had speech therapy, feeding therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy and ABA therapy. He has improved, but he will always be four years old, even though he is now 17. I can't tell you how many nights I've laid awake worried for his future after I'm gone. His autism is not something I celebrate.
As a father with an autistic child, I think what we should be celebrating is awareness and acceptance. Just because someone is autistic doesn't mean they should be treated with shame or anything of the such.
Invisible I'm rlly srry once again I'm just 8! But I am rlly RLLY SRRY nobody has to like my comment btw I liked ur comment IM RLLY RLLY SRRY!!!!😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
I think teaching kids with high functioning autism to act "normally" will actually dumb them down. I've noticed this for myself as well. When left to my own devices, I am extremely work-oriented and focused on learning/discovering new things. When I try to act more normal and hang out with friends, I feel my IQ dropping -- like I've wasted my time on a bunch of non-sensical non-constructive activity. If you listen to these parents, you hear that they are more concerned with how they feel than how their children might see the world differently and act accordingly. This is typical of the NT mind; emotions rule everything.
So true I tell my 21 year old to be himself and if people don’t like him they are missing out on a extremely smart person they could learn a few things from.
You're full of nonsense, Ruby. These parents are trying their best to help their children learn how to function in life. Your comments do, indeed, prove that you're autistic. You obviously live in your own little world, and lack understanding of others. That's not just emotional, it's a fact. You don't need to socialize often with others, if you don't enjoy it. But please don't criticize parents who are trying hard to help their children.
My son is on the Spectrum. I remember when he was two, he started to regress. Watching this happen, as well as him losing eye contact and some other abilities was scary. Thankfully, my next-door neighbor was a nurse and recognized my son’s symptoms right away. I fought for 4 long years to get him a diagnosis. Once I moved him out of state, we were able to get him tested and diagnosed. Unfortunately, it has been an uphill battle with his schools to get him the help he needed. It’s awful. Not knowing what would happen in the future, the school pulled a fast one, and I was misinformed and ended up signing off on his occupational therapy, and speech therapy. He’s 15, and still struggles. But I have been blessed with insight into his world, and continue to fight the school system for him.
we are going through this now, did your child get neurological testing and brain ct or mri and if so, how did he do? this has been a tough experience so far...he is age 5. the diagnoses keeps changing, no one wants to commit to using the term "autism" yet. We are feeling sad.
Crazy how much our society has changed our view on Autism. In the 90's is was a shameful disorder but today, it's almost celebrated. Autism walks, Autism awareness ribbons, it's great!
Celeste R celebrated? Sir I want to try your drugs EVERY autistic child that goes to a public school with kids who don't have autism and last time I checked celebrating is not bullying smh looks like we are still in 90s
@@itshighnoon3090, a lot of kids are being bullied in the public school system, not just those with autism. Besides, I think what the original poster meant was that the adult public, in general, saw Autism as a completely negative thing to have. Now a days, we see both the struggles and the positives. Plus, many individuals have a lot of pride in having it. That wouldn't have, most likely, been the case 30 years ago. In fact, if you go back even further, parents were once blamed by medical professionals for causing their child's Autism.
What I see celebrated is not autism, but being the parent of an autistic child. Many of these parents celebrate themselves & their martyrdom. I’ve met parents who’ve introduced themselves by outlining their difficult lives of self-sacrifice even before mentioning their names. And this is sad, as they come first, not the child(ren) who, more than any other kids, need parents who put them first.
@@salicemccool9186 as a person on the Autism spectrum and diagnosed in my early 20s, I was raised like a “normal kid” and my family just accepted me as the way I was, which wasn’t like the rest of the kids in my family but they didn’t know to look for autism in a little girl. Since getting diagnosed my life has improved immensely because I feel like I have found the explanation I’d been searching for my whole life to why I couldn’t just be like other people around me. I wouldn’t change who I am. I wouldn’t change my diagnosis. There’s nothing wrong with not being neurotypical. A lot of us turn out to be extremely successful in our careers and lives overall and a lot of that is due to our autistic traits almost helping us out. People with autism often have laser focus on their special interests, which often makes a determined and detail oriented individual that is doing something they’re 100% behind. What a boring world it would be if we didn’t have people with autism in it. Doesn’t need a cure. Isn’t a tragedy. Screw that mom that said she’d never wish it upon anyone to have an autistic child. Nothing wrong with not knowing how to do it, but everything wrong with refusing to learn.
Yeah before we tolerated more crimen than autism or down syndrome what a shame thanks today wee dont tolerat crimen but i think going to change with the demonrat trying to defund police and not educate parent to discipline their kids so they be good citizen...
My nephew and niece have autism. My nephew has a shadow. My niece has a mild case. Both of my sisters are great moms. I've asked if they believe that they will ever live on their own. Both said that they are unsure. I'm amazed at the strength they have. Incredible love!
I have a kid with Aspergers, Mysophonia, ADHD and OCD. Risperidone and Ritalin have made wonders for my son. He can finish tasks, doesnt has agressive fits anymore. But he's still figgity and has many vocal tiqs and others, and doesnt stop moving.. But i love that he's so active because i am too. (I have ADHD too so i understand) Its hard, but we do anything for our children.
The16BitLolita I support you and stand by you. People like you need more " goodness" in their life because life is already difficult for people with asperger, ocd, adhd. For what it is worth. I come from a poor family. I got diagnosed with asperger and ADD. ( Also with OCD when I was young). Now I have my master degree. So there is hope " to become a successful member of society" and have a high social status. And I believe in your family. IQ is also fake. I did an IQ test when I was 14, I scored 92. When I was 18 I scored 120. Now I am 27 and I scored 139. So I wouldn't believe everything these doctor's say about your child's future. Greetings from Morocco ( very poor country)
hi my name is lluvia i have a kid with ADHD she is a gift from god and all the kids are a gift from god with a lot of love and patience go a vrey long aways😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇
There's a lot of anti-med propaganda out there, but I've taken antidepressants and they work great for me, and my friend who fosters high needs kids has seen meds do wonders for her kids' ability to learn and function. They're not for everyone, sure, but they're not evil or wrong either like so many people say. Thanks for putting your experience out there, it helps shift the conversation and teach people to be more accepting of different therapies!
11:37 i cringed so hard when she clapped right in the kid’s face as a “reward” for doing well… that would be quite painful for someone with sensory issues, no wonder he’s not seeing much progress. I saw a lot of stuff happening in this doc that would be a sensory nightmare for the kids, as well as a focus on them “playing correctly”… it’s playing, they can play in the way that makes them happy. how about instead of working on training these kids to appear normal, you work on getting on their level and trying to communicate with them in a way that they understand. so glad that I was homeschooled as a kid, if i’d been in that environment i’m sure i wouldn’t have turned out half as functional.
There's nothing wrong with parents being upset that their children need special care that a "normal" child wouldn't need. Obviously the child shouldn't be punished because of that, but it's completely normal to feel that loss.
I have a 4 yr old son an he is autistic . Im getting into finding good programs to help him with his speech . I really appreciate this documentary , because i sometimes feel like im the only parent . Sad an worry a lot , i realize im not the only one . An it's a bit of reliever .
OMG, the clapping. I don't know about this child, but my parents insisted on clapping to "encourage" me to do things, despite my complaining that they were clapping painfully loudly. I seem to recall it took *year* of complaining about that before they finally resentfully stopped clapping for me. I'm not sure they ever really did accept it, but I think over time they forgot about it.
Yeah find that very intimidating too. My parents luckily never did that but I've seen it on all ducumentaries about autistic children and think this is way too loud for many of them, they don't understand the meaning of it, and they just have to cope even more noise which could have been avoided...
I grew up in certain classes like these. Especially early special ed classes that were segregated from the rest of the school. And I'm almost fully nonspeaking now. I grew up semiverbal (or semispeaking) and basically early childhood isn't the only way you can regress and lose skills. There's something called late autistic regression and can take a normally speaking autistic into a higher support needs nonspeaking one especially if it's onset by severe trauma brain trauma or psychological trauma. Mine was both and I learned how to type my thoughts on a AAC tablet and as far ad the clapping goes its so patronizing. And it hurts our ears as autistics it's the loud sudden noises that gets to us the most. I feel so incredibly bad for these children and I can only hope they have access to alternative communication like typing or using a spelling board. It's not just about the parents it's about the children who grew up to become adults who have yet to have freedom of speech
This was a hard watch. Some of the things those parents said really upset me. I'm autistic, so is my partner and 3 year old son. We have a mortgage and are both fully integrated into our local community. We were both very 'different' as kids, as is our son, but I'm proud of his autism and am sure it will take him far, because look how far his parents have come!
To be fair, most everybody needs therapy one way or another. Even if it's just once a month, going to tell somebody about something that ticked you off. Everybody needs therapy. No shame in that.
An incredibly disgusting amount of parents actually despise their children’s differences and decline ASD at first. This is what I hate about society sometimes, more than half of parents in the UK either declined or didn’t like their child’s differences.
i appreciated for the teachers and the parents to make great progress on these young child. even their child had autism, their parents dont give up on them.
i have a family member with autism and he is doing great his 8 and attending intervention school and therapy...he is independent at home and very compliant early intervention and lots of love and prayers help us through our rough time we have a long journey but we know we can make it we always trust God no matter what
It's so upsetting to hear the parents describe their toddlers descent into autism, how they go from lively communicative children, to withdrawn introverts.. I understand how it in some ways must feel like losing one child and gaining another. Imagine you have a loving sweet child, and then over a couple of weeks your child starts ignoring you, no more kisses & cuddles, no more looking to you to guide them, no more smiles, no more seeking safety in your arms.. Try to sympathize with these parents before judging them. They're not evil, they're hurt. And doing the best they can.
Thank u. This is so so true. My baby literally went from constant eye contact, smiles, babbling, thriving and hitting every milestone, to just like he was gone one day. He used to look at me and smile every single morning when I came in the room. One day I noticed he wouldn't look at me, or smile, as I walked in. He never did that again, and all I have are a video and picture to remember how it used to be. He used to always answer to his name or my voice, now it's like he doesn't even know I'm sitting next to him trying to interact in any way with him. It has been the hardest thing I've ever gone through and I really do not care if I offend anyone by being upset ab my child possibly needing 24/7 care for life and never really being able to breakout of the bubble his brain is in and reach out to the world and his family.
@@meganwright9763 I'm so sorry to hear that ❤ I'm sorry there's nothing me or anyone can do to help, I wish I could do something for you. I can't even imagine the hurt you're going through. ❤ stay strong!
Hurt by what? That their kids aren’t giving them constant validation anymore? If you were in the kids shoes, all you’d want is to be supported and accepted the way you are. Not wanting to fit your parents vision of the “perfect” child
My son is still on the spectrum, but he is wicked smart. He was mainstreamed at 6. We did medicate him, but honestly I think prayers were answered. We put our lives into him. Now, he has social skills deficits, but he is super STEM start and has beaten cancer. Cancer has been the harder journey. But he is the best gift I have.
I don't like how people on the comment thread are judging these parents for their choice of words or way of coping with the situation. High functioning autistics are finding this offensive? I don't get why. The kids shown here are not as high functioning and some have obvious shortcomings that prevent them to function optimally in a neurotypical society. The fear the parents must have for their child.. just thinking of what their future holds if he/she can't even express what they need properly.. I don't wish this anguish even on my worst enemies. Just thinking what will happen when the parents die or something unprecedented happens in the family.. must take a real toll on the family. What I really liked about this documentary is the fact that these parents came together to help each other help the kids, who they love , to have some level of Independence in their every day lives. Nowadays everything has become offensive.. 'm offended' is something u come across on the internet every single day. I appreciate the fact that this video didn't sugarcoat anything.. it shows the real struggle .. raw emotions.. not all happy go lucky people who expects everybody to have the same reaction to every aspect of life. Allow people to feel.. please.
raven9ify the reason is because we don't understand venting.... we also understand the thought process behind the behaviors these kids show.... and a lot of us understand that the body language as well as some of the ways these teachers talk to the kids are not the best for them.... I work with children like this regularly... and there's definitely a difference between when the special ed teachers interact with these kids and when I do... personally I see things all the time that the special ed teachers do that cause meltdowns without meaning to..... but they won't listen to me although the kids rarely have meltdowns when I am in control.... they're often taking away these kids control mechanisms for aesthetic purposes.... rocking serves a purpose flapping serves a purpose..... substitution instead of elimination tends to be what most of us on the Spectrum would suggest.... for example at work I fidget with my watch or dogtags instead of rocking or laying on hardwood flooring..... at home that might be a different story or I'm a rock and play with my dog tag at the same time when I get home.... and forced eye contact is just painful.... no way those kids can focus through that... they need to be taught how to look at the hairline or the background behind the person..... there are things you can do to help an autistic person blend into society without stressing the heck out of them.... a lot of Aba therapy would stress the heck out of me and I am a full grown adult who works at a job where I meet 50 to 60 new people everyday and none of my co-workers know I'm autistic. but the best way I think I can answer your question is some of the people in this video made us feel like these children and our lives are not worth living... that we have to be fixed for society to take us, to wart us.... I take offense it very little after all I'm a small-town cup... and I'm still a duck after this video I let this sort of thing roll off my back.... but I understand why this is offensive... to be someone like me who can function in both worlds it feels like you're an alien with normal people but there's nothing to identify you as an alien.... when I'm dealing with a normal person and an autistic person I feel like I'm the translator in the middle....
My son has autism. He went from being in the 90th percentile developmentally at the age of 17 months to non-speaking and Jon-responsive after almost dying from chicken pox. Through therapy and constant vigilance he is now 22 years old and working a full time job. He may always live at home but I consider him a success.
my sister has autism and shes 21, she hasnt been medically tested but its obvious she has it. The way these parents even think about finding a cure is just not going to happen, its a genetic thing in the brain that simply doesnt get better so as a family you learn to live with it and i honestly wouldnt change my sister for anything, she may not be social but she can talk to me and the family, she may not be academically bright but man shes an amazing artist with a wonderful imagination and sure she has her down days but you definitely cannot change a child or an adult with autism
If its genetic how can a child develop neuro-typical until vaccination??? I can pin point the exact time my grandson regressed, I have a photograph of a poorly, vaccinated, beautiful grandson who previously shared, made eye contact, verbalised etc to waking up having had his life in our world stolen from him. I knew what to look out for, I have 3 degrees on children with autism but more than theory I have a multitude of experience within the field. I am a teacher in a school for children with a diagnosis of ASD, also a loving grandmother to my eldest grandson with a diagnosis of ASD. This is not genetic in my grandsons case, he is my life and although I would never change him, I will also never hear him utter the words of "grandma" or see him settle down and start a family or a career. I won't be here for all of his life, he will be with me until mine ends, I don't know who will care for him. ASD is a "spectrum" no two souls with autism are the same so everyone has a unique experience. Do not judge unless you have walked a day in the parents or child's shoes! Society expects us to do well at school, meet a mate, start a family, have a career and live happily ever after. When that expectation and learned behaviour deviates from the plan and throws a child with SEN into the mix, the parent has lost the continuation of the family unit and it can act like a bereavement. It doesn't take away from the fact they love the child, just societies expectations are lost to them and they need to readjust.
If an adult suddenly changed the way a child does , like your grandson, they'd find the link immediately. But somehow just can't figure out why a child stops talking and changes out of nowhere. Obviously it's the money they are trying to protect and keep rolling in with their vaccines. Sorry that happened. I hate that families like yours have had to experience that pain . Stories like yours have saved other children from the same , even if it doesn't provide comfort to hear. It's made a difference for other children's futures
I am an adult with a late in life diagnosis and what she said at 13:38 was so offensive! Comparing a child with Autism to a child who passed away is just ignorant! She seems preoccupied with HER dreams for HIS future- Autism or no Autism, just because a parent has dreams for their kids future does not mean the child will follow that path- and it’s completely unfair for parents to put that type of pressure on a kid. If the parents have dreams, they should chase those dreams for themselves- don’t expect your kids to chase your dreams- don’t ever compare any child to one that has passed away- it’s insulting and disrespectful- !
Christian's mom just wants a quick fix, not letting Christian develop and learn at his school. Medication is not always the answer. She ignores those kids. Those kids need love, patience, acceptance,and kindness. I have an autistic son. We have practiced love, patience,and kindness . We give him encouragement that he can be anything he wants to be, not set him to a standard.
As someone who is high functioning or autistic it's a little bit disconcerting to hear the parents say that it's like their child had died or that they have to be fixed with such disdain. These are people with disabilities not disabilities with the person! I do think neurotypical people might need some more education we are different, not of lesser value ❤
Me too. These videos fill me with mixed feelings that I find difficult to express. Sadness most of the time as the carer often cause a lot of problems.
Wow, the teachers who work with these kids are saints. They get lousy pay but are willing to do such a tough job. We should all thank them for being willing to do what they do.
I have an enormous amount of respect for teachers working with any special needs children. They bring me hope for the future and tells me there still are many good people in the world. Real care is invaluable. Helping and building any child in need of help to grow is a really good investment for all of us. Great doc. thanks for the upload.
this whole things seems to focus on the negative of autism which there is some of but they ignore the positives of it I am married to an autistic man he is on the high functioning side I can see the positive first hand every autistic person has a extreme strong suit which they can use I will also they they are the most loyal trusting and honest people there are. they talk about curing autism the only thing that needs to be cured is the mind set that autism is a problem that needs fixing. just because someone sees the world through a different set of eyes dose not mean they are wrong. what the autistic community needs is people who are willing to accept that there is more then 1 type of play and more then 1 right way to do something. if allowed the right stimuli and lessons even a typical autistic can get a regular job and live on there own. its time to cure this mindset that if someones different there wrong.
really you believe einstein was a problem or how about mozart tim burton or any number of people with autistic sectrum disorter who were allowed to use there gift to the best of there abilities the problem is societies view of normal
Even people with lower functioning ASD can enrich other people's life. And those who have to ask HOW will never understand. Thumbs up Victoria!!! Oh and Mr hacker, I might be saving one Zyklon B pellet personally for you :-) So next time be careful what you put in writing.
I have a high-functioning autistic son, he's definitely quirky but very sweet and caring and I always wonder if there's someone out there who will come to love him enough to marry him lol you give me hope ❤️
The scary thing is that these boys get stronger as they grow so if they have violent tendencies, it is harder to deal with. They can easily hurt someone without meaning to. Patrick's mom is so petite. I really hope he is no longer having tantrums etc.
I'm almost 21 & have autism. There were some guys who had or I assumed had a crush on me but I never had any feelings or thoughts on dating them because I don't see myself functioning well with another autistic person depending on what level they are on like non verbal for example. It's also what you said about these boys growing up bigger & stronger & can easily hurt someone. That really scares me becauseI don't want to be in a domestic violence situation.
1:34 "I wouldn't wish an autistic child on anybody." 13:33 "It's definitely like the child you had has died." don't want to be judgemental, but dayamn!
autism doesn't necessary mean anything bad. You can have a kid that doesn't even seem affected and may not even find out they have it simply do to the fact that they seem just a little introverted.
Many autistic people would rather be autistic than "normal," and being autistic doesn't make a person unhealthy. Autism also doesn't change people, it's something we are born with. There are regressive forms of autism, but the person was still born with autism, it just takes longer to be obvious.
Have to laugh at the mum cooking with all the screaming in the background lol. Sounds like our house. We have 2 autistic kids too. It's amazing how you get so used to the numerous types of stimming.
Stop judging parents-those who never went through this! It is a blow in your face-to find out that your child is autistic, because it changes all your life as a parent! It is not easy to raise an ordinary child, but raising a child with autism requires a lot more patience, hard work and knowledge how to deal with it! I understand why parents so desperate here-they are worried about child's future in this standardized and cruel world! However, I agree that parents should not accept autism as a horrible desease, because it is not!
this post is four years old but i hope you see this. i agree with your thinking. being a parent and finding out your child is on the autism spectrum is devastating. All you thought about for the future is gone, or at least majorly CHANGED. it's hard to deal with it all and it's hard to deal with the schools and the public. It's just very hard to see a child go from what is thought as "normal" to being a completely different child. People need to understand this. The world is cruel out there.
I have an autistic son. I found him amazing and interesting. Patrick's mother needs therapy. She has such distance in her language between her and her son. I hope that changes for that family's sake.
I thought the same thing. She even said it felt like her son was dead. No, lady, that IS your son. I'm autistic, and it always pisses me off when autistic kids are decribed like things instead of people.
The teachers and I think the teachers the documentary called "shadow teachers" are remarkable. And these parents are amazing. But most of all these children are amazing, beautiful and intelligent.
I'm autistic and I hate this documentary. I don't need to be cured, I'm doing good in my life and my family love me. This documentary is very negative and generalises us.
Actually I'm too, but for the most severe cases, there could be some more helpful treatment if only for making communication easier so that the person doesn't get so confused when they can't communicate. I hope you get my point. I personally also don't want to be cured.
I have High Functioning Autism, and I gotta say this documentary is disgraceful to us. They act like it’s a disease that can only come in bad ways. They do not look at the positives, just the negatives 89% of the time. Even the people being interviewed do not feel relieved that they have a special kind of love and communication type. I wish it could be better for those kids though, no one would want a parent who doesn’t care about their difficulties and perceives them as “neurotypical” when in reality, they aren’t.
My son had brushing therapy 5 times a day with joint compression and did very well still makes noises but can interact with others and goes to school. I could not touch him with out him screaming when he was an infant. He is now 13 and doing very well.
Harvard student here (not that it matters) My brother and I have autism. His is more sereve than mine. The difference between him and I is that he went to special Ed School and my parents avoided putting me in there by faking the test and diagnose however failed the speech evaluation. Also side note I was extremely anti-social and talked to 0 people most of the time except for the random people that said Hi. I really just hated being around people, because I can never relate to them. I totally hated the act of speaking, because a lot of what people said didn't interest me, and although my language in my head wasn't any form of english or any language for that matter. In English terms I thought everybody was wrong and quite weird. They were like incomponent animals. Of course I didn't use those analogy in my head because I had a limited phrase of reference of vocabulary at that point in my life so most of it was just abstractions of ideas. I went to speech therapy from kindergarten to Middle School. Totally hated it. Anyways it's really about the stimulus around an autistic child and most importantly the dopamine receptors. I would never tell an autustic child to run because it creates a dopamine rush in the brain. I would just suggest for them to speed walk. Although I never actually told anyone that, it's really just a suggestion because it puts their dopamine at a lower rate which can later be compensated for learning. Dopamine in learning usually requires lower dopamine levels to be affect, but not low enough to be tiresome. I usually spent my free time counting thousands of pennies as a kid in secret in a little closet I used to hide into probably 3 times a week, and of course watch Spongebob and did normal kid stuff just not with PEOPLE. I put the pennies in hundreds of combinations of groups etc. Because of this I grew to be an excellent person in mathematics. I did the counting thing not because I was 'loved' with math or anything but because the only form of money I had was in dirty old coins that I would buy Diet Coke with from the ice cream man. So combination with dopamine from Diet Coke and money sort of is how I wired my brain to enjoy maths because I conditioned my brain with a positive process. The weird thing is they took me OUT of mathematics as a kid to go to speech therapy because they thought I was too dumb. There was 3 tracks at my school for grading, Track A to Track C. Track A for the smartest people and Track C for the lower end, but not special ED. I was in Track C. Everyday I wanted to get out of the speech therapist room to go to mathematics. I didn't really care much about mathematics at the time, I just really hated speech. Although I can communicate quite well, and think in English NOW, I used to hate talking to people except for the people who enjoyed hearing my ideas. Of course they could never understand what I was saying because I didn't really speech english or any language, they still nodded. Also I'm not talking about the therapists who would hear me ideas, I hated therapists. I knew all their tricks and how they would fake a smile. I would always bother them by smiling whenever I can outside of the therapy room, I would force a smile all day, every week, every month, and only STOP smiling whenever I got into the therapy room just to let them know I hated them. Sure I sound like I spoiled person from a normal perspective but when you have no way of communicating with actual words it can be the only way out. Just learn the signs. Also I think the smiling conditioned my brain to love everything but people but hey that's good for me. The point is if you treat kids like my brother like idiots from the start, they're going to become idiots. All kids are idiots. The only think that possibly kept me alive was the belief that "they were wrong". Nothing was wrong with me. Never put your kids in a special Ed Class, ever. You're the average of the 5 people you hang out with, and if the average of 5 people you hang out with are the people who bang their heads against the walls, then you're going to have a hard time resisting. I'm now attending Harvard University due to my astounding efforts in mathematics and English (in writing) because my parents didn't average me out with the special ed students.
Thank you very much for your opinion and your story. I have the same opinion get the most from your child... Not bringing him or her to therapy that he or she hates and where the therapist overrate their knowledge and mostly insulting the intelligence of your kid.
Probook, I admire you so much for overcoming all those sessions with the therapist, for being strong enough to get through on your own terms and in your own way. I hope you continue to do well and enjoy your life, you sound such a determined and thoughtful sensitive person who deserves to have the best out of what life offers.
My son was talking up a storm by 1 years old...by 2 years old he wasn't saying a word...now at 5 with alot of work he's slowly coming along...and for the lady who said "I dont wish an autistic child on anyone" how dare you!!! They are very special children and you love them the same maybe a little more!
very informative. I would like to see a video documenting how the families have done over the years. also more research should be done into nutrition therapy.
I have a severly autistic child. it is a total loss of any normalcy. my life is crazy now. I would not wish my life I have now on anyone. it is total craziness.
Oliver seems like such a happy, kind, smart boy. He's lovely to watch. Also, you can tell how much Patrick's father adores him. He always seems to have a smile on his face when talking about him and almost teared up talking about him being able to ride his bike to the store.
cant imagine how hard this is the for parents, hard to know what to do, those who dont have the resources or a support system.. so hard must be devastating on the marriage too.
It is absolutely devastating. The worst part is u can't even talk ab it, even in parenting groups for asd kids, bc they're overrun w people now who tell parents they aren't allowed to have any negative emotions ab autism or they're "victimizing themselves/ableist." the autism inclusivity movement actually got the biggest genetic study for autism cancelled bc they were worried it'd be used to lower the rates of autistic children being born/abortion. They really denied all of us answers and help for our kids just bc they didn't want their community to get smaller.
@@meganwright9763 i agree with you, it is very, very hard. as far as the marriages being strained, if one partner feels the other partner's genes are to blame...look out!
I have a beautiful son who has autism and he is the most beautiful thing that has happened to me in life he has 5añitost to much advanced in his therapies I am super proud of him
While I know how these parents feel..my biggest worry is, will my son be independent? Will he be OK when I'm gone?? I'm pretty much all he has, but when I die I want him to be OK on his own. This is my biggest fear because of his problems. He has not been diagnosed, however he is getting speech & OT services. I just pray he will get better.
Are you from the US? If so, I highly recommend getting a diagnosis, so your child can have access to even more services. I'm from New Mexico, and we have a state funded program here for adults with severe enough developmental disabilities that prevent them from being independent. My sister is currently getting those services, thanks to being diagnosised, and she has a family living provider, a community access provider, and is on social security disability. The family living provider, who doesn't have to be related to that individual, provides that individual with a place to live. The respite care provider provides that individual with fun activities and outings while the family living provider is doing other things, and the community access person helps that individual gain better access to community events, places, etc to achieve individualized goals for that individual. My sister, who has mobility issues, recently got a brand new walk-in shower, which was fully paid for by the state since it was medically needed. My sister is also on Medicaid since she is on disability. Each state has their own programs that they fund in order to assist those, who need it, with individualized services, like a place to live, for example. So, if I were you, I would first work on getting your son a formal diagnosis, so he can have access to those kinds of services, and then I would research which programs/services are available for those with developmental disabilities in your area besides OT & speech therapy. I also highly recommend that you have your son gain access to social security disability, so he can have a steady income and a since of pride in having his own bank account and money to spend on the things that he wants/needs. Again, he will not be able to get any of that unless he has a formal diagnosis. So, I highly recommend that you get him diagnosised first and foremost, so you won't have to be concerned about those kinds of things anymore. Also, every single provider who works for a state agency, goes through both a state and federal background checked, are throughly trained, and have excellent references. So, I hope you get your son some more help, so, hopefully, this won't have to be a concern anymore.
My 13 year old nephew is on the autism spectrum, high functioning, has no friends and is homeschooled because of bullying. I just wana wring their necks and tell them that he’s just like them, wants friends and wants to be accepted. Pisses me off and hurts my heart. He’s a great kid with a great sense of humor, we love him very much just the way he is. Period. When will this bullying crap end!
The Amazing Septiplier Is Not On Fire I know. Typical ableism. It's so frustrating it makes me want to scream. When will the world learn to accept us fully and without complaint?!
elsa1942 I agree! Autism is not a disease, it's a beautiful thing. It can be a pain in the ass for you and those around you, but it's not something people should feel sorry for
I totally understand where the mom is coming from. I have a much younger sister with autism that I had to help raise. She is very low functioning. I love her more than words could ever describe, and I think she is wonderful just the way she is. But I will not lie. Her autism has made life hard for all of us, and I would not wish that hardship on anyone. No one ever wishes for a disabled kid. But if you have one, you learn to love and raise it in a whole new way to help them.
these moms are terrible trying to fix their children like if they were broken, experimenting with different drugs. It broke my heart when Patrick was asking for his pills and it wasn't time for it and he began to hurt himself that is an addictive behavior his body is asking for the drug 😢. The other mom when eating dinner said if her child would just eat his dinner life would be completed and they all laughed, so mean poor baby doesn't have control of his body. The Dad should be helping out with him while the mom takes care of the girl and they can both teach the older one to be kind, understanding and helpful too. That whole thing on medication just upsets me so much, everyone is crazy pill popping there kids like if puff magically they can be fix. It's a learning disability! Early intervention,one on one interaction, exposing them different learning techniques and environments is the key and they will all be successful in there own way. Some will make it to college and some will just learn to speak, use sign, point at pictures to comunicate, get dressed on their own, make a meal for themselves... but all of that is success and it should be celebrated as that. I would never gamble with my child's life by giving him medication knowing I can lose him because I want him to be fix or normal, that is selfish. Everyone is different and if you can't accept that from your own children then you have a problem.
My son's brother is Austistic, very Low functioning. He is non verbal, and will always need to be cared for. He was very violent from an early age and it went on til he was about 12 ( once we got him on risperidon ). It is definitely a life saver. He is a big boy and would attack his dad daily and have big meltdowns at school and stores, since being on the drug we have had no incidents and couldnt ask for a better child :)
MizzyRose1994 BlueBerry OK , dually noted, unfortunately the majority of the World hears her & assumes it's a British accent, without being around English & Aussie, folks more in a day to day environment or being a linguistic. English , is just what one would think. after all as bad as they may not like it, England is where the Australians heritage hails from isn't it or if ?
My daughter is 14yrs old and her level of autism is not so bad. I taught her a lot of things writing, helping me with the house work ,toilet trained her. It was not easy but she learned how to do it. But she cannot read. But it's OK. She doesn't like doctors and hospitals. So I avoid giving her junk food and cold snacks that will make her sick. But I let her eat junk once a week. I take her everywhere with me. Patience, love and understanding. I love her with all my heart
I’d love to see them have the money to build an all new school and have all the supplies and resources they need and more! This is such a beautiful school and I know this is a very old video and these children are grown a lot now but there are many more small children in need of this amazing school …there should be schools like this in every town and city! If I hit the lottery this would be a goal of mine!
I would love to see an autism documentary about adults. They always focus on kids but those kids will become adults.
Adriana Saldaña Autism really isn't as evident in adults as in children though. I have autism and it used to be substantially more noticeable when I was a young child than it is now. I'm 16 btw if that has any significance.
Actually, autism sometimes even completely disappears by adulthood, but that is rare.
Nate Cahnman mine is more prominent now as an adult. I was doing ok-ish in social situations as a kid, but as social situations became more complex with age, I got completely lost. My emotional development is also behind which is also more prominent now as an adult.
If I remember right there is short PBS doc on YT following a couple of autistic adults, it's more of a PSA really, but it's quite good.
bigboredthing maybe i watch it soon.
Also a documentary called Autism Love on Netflix!
I'm on the autism spectrum, high functioning- my mum never treated me differently from my siblings. I thank her everyday for that- no, I don't have friends, find social issues tough BUT I have done very well for myself.
We can relate.
@@juliacarl584 like you have experience.......
@@teressabutler7620 How would you know either way? It must be nice to read a comment, then think that you have it all figured out.
You’re lucky. Even before I got my diagnosis people commented to my mom about how she treated my younger sister and I differently
@@juliacarl584 I am from India and my son is Autistic, My son has recovered a lot with an ayurvedic medicine and I really want this Ayurvedic medicine to spread all over the world.
It is affordable by almost everyone
Please connect with me at thenobleacademyy@gmail.com
I'm on the Autism scale, higher functioning, still have difficulties but I did earn a Bachelor's Degree. I wish I'd had help during the first 15 yrs. of my life.
I have high functioning ASD and I'm a uni drop out.
what do you feel would have helped please?
Definitely a lot of one on one to be sure that I understood what was required and what the questions meant. That would have helped a lot.
jnia fowler I am too. I didn't earn a bachelor's degree however, as I'm not in college yet. I've had a lot of one-on-one in my life, due first to to social problems, now it's really just for math, and I can tell you it certainly has helped me a lot.
I am glad for you Zoey. I found that sitting near the door in my classrooms helped lessen my anxiety and fear of getting stuck in the classroom behind a lot of my peers. I just learned recently that 80 to 90% of all of the worlds technologies and innovations, and discoveries have been made by people with a spectrum disorder. So hold your head high.
I'm autistic as well, I didn't realize I had a depressing childhood until I turned 21 & that I moved away from my family I'm living a happy life
You give me so much hope as I cry for my son who is 5. He had to be picked up from prekindergarten today for karate chopping a peer and hitting the principal. He was diagnosed with Aspergers a week ago. I love him so so so much I just want him happy. I just want him to feel safe and happy in the world. I pray he grows up and sees that I always love him and the world doesn't matter it only matter how he feels about his self. Because in reality were all programmed to hate ourselves even neurotypical people. Keeper keep pushing on you deserve to be happy
I’m go glad
Can I ask what was depressing about it? Was it how your parents regarded you? What would have made you happier?
My son once explained he could focus on what I'm saying, or focus on holding eye-contact. Pick the battles carefully..
I just learned to look at the forehead or nose or something so it looks like I’m looking the person in the eyes. Very few people notice the difference
@@withintheshyness What a great technique! It's sad that being looked in the eye is the only way most of society believe they're being listened to. I grew up believing that. Looking right at someone meant being focused on that person.
Meeting my son at age 7 (he's turning 25 in a few weeks) and learning about neurodiversity, my views have shifted. Not just about what focus means, and doesn't mean, but about perception, about education, about tolerance and limits and prioritizing. Being the mom of someone on the spectrum has made me a better person.
withintheshyness i can’t look at the forehead/nose! i need more external stimulation, like looking out windows. wish i could use that trick though 😩
@@kathleenh2782 Sadly, ignorance leads to people getting huffy "are you listening to me?!" I understand the urge to just not be in those situations by whatever means of escape possible, but try to use those moments as opportunities to educate.
If only there could be a switch that engages a neon word sign over the head. "I'm not looking at you but I am listening to you." Neurodiversity!
@@withintheshyness That's what I do with dogs. Often times they feel challenged if you stare at them in the eyes until they are comfortable with you. It let's the dog know you indeed see them but you mean them no harm. Interesting. It's not something I would have used with a person but if that's helpful then it's helpful.
My younger brother has autism. Hes in his 30s. He is non verbal, not toilet trained and violent. He has punched police, doctors and my elderly parents. I love him and we are trying hard to keep him at home but its increasingly difficult. Unfortunately he's a 1 and half taller then me and a hundred pounds bigger. Not even the hospital can care for him. I love him. I remember when he was little he could talk, he would hug me. Now he barely acknowledges anyone. Im not whining, I want you to understand
Colleen Alexander you don’t sound like you are whining, that has to be so difficult for your family, I wish you all the best. Here’s a hug for you.
i hear you, i hope you are doing well, this post was 2 years ago. I have 6 cases of autism in my family tree...across three generations.
Colleen Alexander, I’m sorry about your brother.
My aunt had it. When I was 5 and misbehaved my dad threatened to send me over there for the summer. I met her only once, so I don’t have a concrete memory of her, but From what I remember I did get in her face and received a bloody nose. Her autism was the exact same version as of your brother. She was in her 50’s at the time.
@@Brooke-bl3yq many cases of autism in my family through several generations, the latest is my grandchild. A brother, a niece, a grandchild, second cousins and even a grandparent. I have to be honest, i am very heartbroken.
Thank you for sharing.
Oliver is seriously SOO adorable. His speech was soooo good. Keep up the good work Oliver!
Deviouspinkies I was just thinking the same thing!
Deviouspinkies yeahh I melted!
My boyfriend and I are both autistic with ADHD. He is a chemical engineer and I am a programming teacher. We certainly both have ways that we struggle in life, and plenty of the ways we acted as kids were no different than some of these children. But we grew up to be independent adults that can take care of ourselves. Also, both of us come from families with also AuDHD parents and siblings, plus some of my parents' siblings and parents. Autism runs in families and doesn't have to be debilitating. If you are the parent of an autistic child, please don't view it as some mysterious disease only affecting your kid. I understand it is hard- late potty training, minimal communication, tantrums- but there is a reason for everything your kid is doing.
Exactly 💯!
I hate how the mom said"I wouldnt wish autism on anybody" and here I am grateful for the most unique son God blessed me with , no matter his mood swings.
And next time anyone is in a supermarket and sees a child / young person having a meltdown or 'behaving badly' give the parent a smile of encouragement. Chances are they are great parents and the situiaon might not be as it looks.
Exactly!
Sorry, no. How about next time these breeders are out to eat and their kid throws a fit the breeders should apologize for the noise and the hold up to all the non breeders who chose not to have kids because we don't like loud noises and the world is already overpopulated.
How about you and your bigoted ass get on the internet and do some research as to what autism actually is. People like you don't make the slightest effort to understand things you don't already know about, and treat the topic with snide derision as a result. The world would be a much nicer place for everybody involved if people like you actually tried to care. Meltdowns happen because the autistic brain is hypersensitive to sound, light, texture and colour. An environment like a supermarket can be terrifying because the autistic brain can't filter any of that stimuli out, a process that you take for granted. Imagine what it would be like being in a supermarket when you're relentlessly battered with bags rustling, people talking loudly, electrical humming, vivid colours and forceful adverts in every corner, the clinical flickering beat of those strip lights, tinny elevator music bouncing off the walls, the sound of metal grating on metal every time the door opens and closes, not being able to take your eyes off a certain tile on the floor because it has a large crack in it, the feeling of disgust you get when you pick up a fruit and the texture disagrees with you. The autistic brain is super, super aware of everything around it and it can be overwhelming. Especially in an environment where you are trying to also be aware of the people around you. It's too much for the brain to handle and that is expressed by a meltdown. Next time you see a kid having a meltdown in public, remind yourself that it's their way of processing far too much sensory information at once and they're not having a temper tantrum. I will not excuse my child for doing the only thing that comes naturally to them. I'm sorry that autism causes YOU so many problems.
Well non breeder brains are also super aware of everything that goes around us and don't want to hear the screaming or see the hand flapping. Why is the autistic's sensitivity more important than everyone else's? FWIW I hate all children that make noise, even the non-autistic ones.
Lizzie S. because it is beyond their control. I think you need to find another video to watch.
alexander seems so confident and outgoing! in fact, all of these kids seem to really be thriving within this supportive environment! i hope they're all well
I have autism and those special needs schools really do help us. I don’t know where I’d be without the amazing special needs school I went to. In only a few years they helped me go from an autistic child with no coping mechanisms, no confidence, no ability to control myself or express myself to an autistic adult who ended up going through (and excelling at) a mainstream college. I’m now even doing something I never thought I’d be capable of doing; Scuba diving!
I still have issues and I’ll always be autistic but thanks to those amazing teachers and therapists, I’m a much better person and can communicate very well. I honestly don’t know where I’d be without them and I only got the help by the time I was 13 due to only being diagnosed at 11 years old... I imagine if I was diagnosed a lot earlier, I would have been even better than I am now.
Mine didn’t help me. Well, they did at first, but then they just really went downhill.
God blessed you I'm so happy you are doing well
Hello! I was in special classes when I was growing up! I think my school could have done a lot better, but it is hard to find supportive people.
This was my reply to another post, but I would like to share my experience with others. Of course, I still have a lot to learn, so please feel free to correct me or to add on 😊
Autism has to do with the way your brain is wired. Everyone is different with different DNA, hence everyone has a different brain. Of course there is nurture, but that does not change our DNA or brain structure. Normally the worst that can occur from a vaccine is that the virus components make the patient sick with those actual viral symptoms like if one were sick. I work at a preschool from age 3 month old to 5 years old and it is obvious that people do not just drastically change, or barely change at all for that matter.
I am autistic myself so it is actually easy for me to spot others with autism. To be honest, I’m not sure why they say you can’t notice autism until infants are older, because it seems pretty obvious to me 😅 the infant teacher at our school is also really great at telling, she also might be autistic though too haha, she is very in-tune with the nature of her students and has had decades of experience with early childhood education. There has been one case where one infant had a mental “regression”, for some reason when he turned one year old he started to loose many of his behaviors and almost became like a vegetable that wonders around and runs into walls. One of the teachers told me he developed autism, but I just don’t think so… usually autism (is pretty obvious to me lol) even from mild to prominent cases has some sort of sensory mind in some way or another and they tend to be sensitive, but this kid was not at all like that. (Child was removed from school a number of months after his regression). I think autism was a very easy way to say this kid has a problem. What that problem is seems really serious, while autism (can be very serious depending on the parents’ and teachers’ reaction and treatment), but people with autism can still function, it’s just that they are functioning differently from most people. It can even be very different from others with autism! People are already so different, but when you throw autism in there you get even more variety of people and more fun (:
It’s sad, a lot of my coworkers are impatient with the autistic children, even the ones who are lower on the spectrum. It is really sad, because all they need to do is change their mindset to better understand how this child is thinking. Just because they think differently doesn’t mean too much for them, what it means is that the parents and teachers need to work with that person/child/infant DIFFERENTLY than most kids, because their brain is operating differently. There’s really nothing wrong with it 🤷♀️ what can be wrong is how people around perceive that person 😔
I have high functioning autism and had to learn everything a child takes for granted. it's not easy to live with it as an adult.
the occupational therapists are so so sooo patient with the children, major respect
When I was well enough to work I worked in local nurseries and one of them inperticular had 20 out of 40 students with learning difficulties or disabilities and 12 were autistic. One thing I found particularly annoying was that because the children didn’t always join in with didn’t storytime or song time the other staff members stopped inviting or encouraging them. One instance one teacher was doing song time outside as I was singing along whilst watching the children who wanted to play on the bikes. One autistic boy who never sang before started singing so I asked if he wanted to do song time.Before he could answer the other teacher told me he won’t do group activity’s. Ignoring this I asked again he said yes. I asked him to “please get off the bike” said “no” and I then said “ok please get off the bike and I’ll take it with us for you to sit on for song time” he got off took my hand and walked over to join in for his first group activity. I went back to sing and watching the other.
Every day for every activity I would encourage everyone join in. One day I got everyone including the children who usaly don’t by encouraging and making a sticker chart and a put it next to the list of rules recapping rules daily made a huge positive change for them.When they go five stickers they could choose a story, song or special toy from the reward chest I put together. They also got the same amount of stickers in their daily diary to show their parents and family and everyone got claps for every x
That is wonderful, it just shows that encouragement, understanding and rewards do help all children advance in socialising and learning.
Amazing ❤
@@justacrocodile9486 reward's don't help
Regression scares me! You could think your child is developing at a normal rate and then suddenly they lose it all. Terrifying.
To me it was the most difficult thing to cope with regarding autism. I still remember the day I woke up and couldnt recognize my own daughter. Its like losing a child, like theyve been swap with somebody else who looks exactly like them. I love her to death, but I sometimes catch myself wondering what this little girl could have been and I feel awful for it.
You have to walk a mile in someone else's shoes before making judgments! No one could ever know how hard it is for child & parent!
MsHellraser preach
MsHellraser thank you well said
MsHellraser i so feel inferrior to everyone !
MsHellraser Thank you for stating what should be the obvious. My goodness. Let's most people walk a block in these parents shoes.
I'm confused as to what your saying here!! I have an autistic child & I expect that others shall not judge unless they have had to deal with what we all deal with. That includes anyone that goes through experience that most are unaware of. Self harm being one of those factors!!
The divorce rate among parents of autistic children is around 85%. I applaud all of these couples who are still together and supporting each other, and doing everything they can to help their children.
I have asperger's, which is a form of autism. Luckily, I grew up with a loving mother that always accepted me for the way I am and encouraged me to be myself. Now, I am a straight A student in college making my way to a Doctoral degree in Psychology. Autism is a gift. I would never, ever trade it out to be "normal."
Thank Goodness for your Mother...long may you continue at peace. The best gift is tolerance, acceptance and understanding.
Keep that to yourself
YOU are just lucky.
There are so many people that aren't as lucky.
Having a loving mother is very important for the children to progress patience and love is what this children need even through the challeging times
@@justicefonfara17 why should they?
When Patrick says a complete word and does well his mother often does not respond it would really help if she did serve and return according to a university study
My little brother has autism he was the cutest most happy toddler I had ever seen every morning when I came downstairs he would run up to me and give me a hug and his smile could light up a whole room
FirstName LastName / omg I'm crying imagining my younger brother doing that to me when he is born in just 1 month now
My grandson has autism..he is 3..and his parents are on top of it like white on rice. He is adorable... however..just now speaking.. I love him with all my heart!!
Please read my post.
That’s today…I’m glad things are changing.
It’s cute when they are children but unfortunately if he’s level 3 , it will be hard when he turns into an adult 😢
Love the playful banter/connection between parents as they both straining to provide amazing care to two young boys both diagnosed.. "If I don't (have time to) get a cup of tea, why do you?" , "because I'm special". props to a beautiful family!
I was really glad to find out that this was from 20 years ago. Glad so much has been learned since then
Wow - all these tinies are now well into their twenties! Wonder what happened to them all.
30:00 I'm crying. He's in so much psychic pain, it's really upsetting to watch.
my child has autism and my filthy mom refuses to have anything to do with her calls her a monster and never has met her! I cut her off my life permanently . my mother has worse tantrums and she is in her 60s
lacy doo I am so sorry that it happened but I am proud that you are keeping your child safe and away from her
Gigi, do you know Lacy doo's mother?
+G Peters thank you so much for your kind words
+Gigi ItzMe unfortunately i know my mother and she is not a human at all I have tried to ignore her but she has Always been a horrible person always. she is toxic and was extremely abusive . my daughter does not need a grandma like that.
Lacy,What I was saying is that only you know your mother and not a stranger.You are doing what ever you need to keep your child safe. I have Autism and my own mother is toxic. She'll never understand me, won't even try.
It's important to remember that there is huge variety in how people with autism function in everyday life. Those saying that autism doesn't need to be "cured" might never have met a non verbal, non communicating adult with severe behavioural issues, whose parents are growing older & are increasingly unable to care for their adult child.
Also vaccines do NOT cause autism!!!
Cassandra Duchaine So true, autism doesn't just take place in children, many adults end up grow up with this but some manage to cope. A cure for autism isn't what we need, it's acceptance. There is no proper cure discovered, just ways to cope with it.
florantia Accepting what, adults getting upset and running through glass doors? They need help, not magic of positive thinking.
kaena011 Of course I understand they do need help in the way that helps them AND the people around them, I meant for parents to try to make their children feel as wanted as any 'normal' child. Neglect or not understanding about the child's autism therefore not knowing how to teach them to cope with it usually ends up that the child will grow into an adult and not adapt the way they should have (like making proper conversation and doing social/group activities). That's why many adults aged 20+ tend to find it difficult to fit in with others and lead to mental disorders (such as social anxiety). I simply meant for parents to be more accepting of their child being autistic yet still give them a normal, happy childhood without isolating them (which worsens their problem).
florantia I'm sorry but speak for yourself. I have high functioning ASD and I would like nothing more but be free of this. It's making my life hell. I seem normal on the outside but in reality I'm really strugling with everyday activities like paying bills and keeping contact with people I know. I have one kind of close friend that I only talk to every few months.
Pootin Pootin I understand that, I may not have a hard time as you. And I know how much harder it is. However, from my background I've had help all because of my mother. Doctors kept telling my mum, "she's just a quiet girl" and "there's nothing wrong with her" I was her only daughter and I have 3 brothers, so she picked up my actions way back when I was a toddler. She fought for fucking 8 years during me being in school and I finally got a diagnosis, and I'm very grateful for that. If I never had the mother I had today then needless to say, my life would be absolute hell. Children and adults with autism need awareness and since most autistic adults nowadays are being blamed on their behavioural issues (as to not getting the support they needed when they were younger), it's becoming a problem to spread that awareness. I have imagined myself sometimes if I could get rid of it, but I know that because you may have ASD or anything else on the autistic spectrum, doesn't mean you can't accomplish anything in life because of it.
How can a child having autism feel like your child has died? I get its hard my 3 year old daughter is autistic but I wouldn't change her for the world she is so loving and caring even tho she doesn't make eye contact or answer to her name and has very little speech but she is amazing
Its a different experience for. I can see both sides. My 3 yr old is autistic too and man is he amazing!!
I was shocked when i heard that too ! I found out my baby girl have autism , i was sad yes because we know all the difficulties people with autism go through and the bullies, but i love my child even more then before
When they say it feels like the child has died...its a metaphor...What they mean, is that thier hopes and dreams/ expectation of their child has to shifted / died... And for some parents its feels much like a death of a dream...Just like many of us wanted to go somewhere for spring break, that dream has died because there are no flights going to many island countries due to the Corona virus..
I would never change my son either. He is who God has made him. I just give him all of my love and the best help I can give him.
Wow, you're so much better than everyone else. How dare you judge. You have an easy autistic kid, but many do not. You need to develop some compassion.
Autism runs in my family. I have two nephews who are high functioning. The absolute WORST thing to see them go through is the terrible bullying. Even the teachers get very annoyed with them due to their behavioral issues and have allowed the harassment and meaness to go on. There have been teachers who ignored all of their special requirements to reduce the amount of problems with other children, causing them to to lash out at the bullies physically and getting suspended. I'm not justifying their reactions, but this has happened in two different school districts and teachers. My (then) 6 year old nephew even heard his teacher tell a parent he was an irritating or bad kid.
If people would learn to be more kind to others and if there weren't such horrible school teachers the world would be so much better. Even if autists are annoying just leaving them alone is better than bullying them!
My 13 year old nephew also has high functioning autism. Has no friends and is homeschooled because of the bullying. Breaks my damn heart
There has to be a school program that can help them.
@@olivedog1880 There has to be a program for autism in school. Ask the pediatrician or school district
i dont agree with ignoring their bad behavior coz thats not helping them or teaching them how to cope or be a kind human being despite being autistic, my son told me there is an autistic kid in his school who called told him “go back to where you came from” my son spoke to the special ed teacher and told her about what the autistic kid told him and the teacher responded” dont do anything about it coz he is autistic” my son was upset coz he said that autistic kid is a racist and he bullies asian kids in school because he knows he can get away with his bad behavior
Your children have been exposed to same neurotoxins.
Based on the clothes I think this film was made in the early 90's. I wish they would make a new documentary with updates on these families and how these children ended up.
2002
Me too! I know a few of these parents, and they are absolute saints, wonderful people who work tirelessly to keep the schools going and the kids safe and happy. Not everyone has had a happy ending. I think it would be useful for people out there with no experience with the autism spectrum to see an honest, real-life follow-up. Life continues to be hard, often much harder once the kids are adults.
@@amelieholbrook3001 Yes. I also know a few mothers who work hard at their kids schools.
@@michaellamb2535 Really? Damn I would've guessed like 2005-2007.
Typically those who have a good degree of high functioning autism are the ones who are most vocal about being accepted in society, and I don't disparage them for feeling the way they do. However, autism is a disorder that takes many forms, and my child will never be able to live independently, dress himself without assistance or even bathe without assistance. He's had speech therapy, feeding therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy and ABA therapy. He has improved, but he will always be four years old, even though he is now 17. I can't tell you how many nights I've laid awake worried for his future after I'm gone. His autism is not something I celebrate.
I would give anything for having my little brother writing this comments.He is a 12 month old baby being 15yro
As a father with an autistic child, I think what we should be celebrating is awareness and acceptance. Just because someone is autistic doesn't mean they should be treated with shame or anything of the such.
You sound like a good and caring mother.
Sending you so much love. You're a good mama
My brother has autism and I'm his big sister and I'm only 8! Plz wish me, my brother, and my whole entire and growing family good years to come.
Invisible I'm rlly srry once again I'm just 8! But I am rlly RLLY SRRY nobody has to like my comment btw I liked ur comment IM RLLY RLLY SRRY!!!!😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
Invisible and I also subscribed to ur channel IM RLLY RLLY SRRY!!!!!!!!!!!!😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
Invisible ok srry 😅😅
Sparkles Jam you didn't do anything wrong. Your family will be just fine as long as you're in it! My thoughts are with all of you. 😊
Wishing you the best, sparkles jam.
Best wishes to all parents, siblings and the beautiful STARS of this documentary.
I love how they thought of this school! It teaches them to a way that can understand rather then a normal school where it might be to difficult
I think teaching kids with high functioning autism to act "normally" will actually dumb them down. I've noticed this for myself as well. When left to my own devices, I am extremely work-oriented and focused on learning/discovering new things. When I try to act more normal and hang out with friends, I feel my IQ dropping -- like I've wasted my time on a bunch of non-sensical non-constructive activity. If you listen to these parents, you hear that they are more concerned with how they feel than how their children might see the world differently and act accordingly. This is typical of the NT mind; emotions rule everything.
Ruby Tate so true
So true I tell my 21 year old to be himself and if people don’t like him they are missing out on a extremely smart person they could learn a few things from.
You're full of nonsense, Ruby. These parents are trying their best to help their children learn how to function in life. Your comments do, indeed, prove that you're autistic. You obviously live in your own little world, and lack understanding of others. That's not just emotional, it's a fact. You don't need to socialize often with others, if you don't enjoy it. But please don't criticize parents who are trying hard to help their children.
Yes😊
So glad to see this. My son is autistic and this really helps me
My son is on the Spectrum. I remember when he was two, he started to regress. Watching this happen, as well as him losing eye contact and some other abilities was scary. Thankfully, my next-door neighbor was a nurse and recognized my son’s symptoms right away. I fought for 4 long years to get him a diagnosis. Once I moved him out of state, we were able to get him tested and diagnosed. Unfortunately, it has been an uphill battle with his schools to get him the help he needed. It’s awful. Not knowing what would happen in the future, the school pulled a fast one, and I was misinformed and ended up signing off on his occupational therapy, and speech therapy. He’s 15, and still struggles. But I have been blessed with insight into his world, and continue to fight the school system for him.
we are going through this now, did your child get neurological testing and brain ct or mri and if so, how did he do? this has been a tough experience so far...he is age 5. the diagnoses keeps changing, no one wants to commit to using the term "autism" yet. We are feeling sad.
It was a long time ago now, but do you remember if you child had been vaccinated shortly before the changes?
Crazy how much our society has changed our view on Autism. In the 90's is was a shameful disorder but today, it's almost celebrated. Autism walks, Autism awareness ribbons, it's great!
Celeste R celebrated? Sir I want to try your drugs EVERY autistic child that goes to a public school with kids who don't have autism and last time I checked celebrating is not bullying smh looks like we are still in 90s
@@itshighnoon3090, a lot of kids are being bullied in the public school system, not just those with autism. Besides, I think what the original poster meant was that the adult public, in general, saw Autism as a completely negative thing to have. Now a days, we see both the struggles and the positives. Plus, many individuals have a lot of pride in having it. That wouldn't have, most likely, been the case 30 years ago. In fact, if you go back even further, parents were once blamed by medical professionals for causing their child's Autism.
What I see celebrated is not autism, but being the parent of an autistic child. Many of these parents celebrate themselves & their martyrdom. I’ve met parents who’ve introduced themselves by outlining their difficult lives of self-sacrifice even before mentioning their names. And this is sad, as they come first, not the child(ren) who, more than any other kids, need parents who put them first.
@@salicemccool9186 as a person on the Autism spectrum and diagnosed in my early 20s, I was raised like a “normal kid” and my family just accepted me as the way I was, which wasn’t like the rest of the kids in my family but they didn’t know to look for autism in a little girl. Since getting diagnosed my life has improved immensely because I feel like I have found the explanation I’d been searching for my whole life to why I couldn’t just be like other people around me. I wouldn’t change who I am. I wouldn’t change my diagnosis. There’s nothing wrong with not being neurotypical. A lot of us turn out to be extremely successful in our careers and lives overall and a lot of that is due to our autistic traits almost helping us out. People with autism often have laser focus on their special interests, which often makes a determined and detail oriented individual that is doing something they’re 100% behind. What a boring world it would be if we didn’t have people with autism in it. Doesn’t need a cure. Isn’t a tragedy. Screw that mom that said she’d never wish it upon anyone to have an autistic child. Nothing wrong with not knowing how to do it, but everything wrong with refusing to learn.
Yeah before we tolerated more crimen than autism or down syndrome what a shame thanks today wee dont tolerat crimen but i think going to change with the demonrat trying to defund police and not educate parent to discipline their kids so they be good citizen...
oliver is so sweet, god bless that child
My nephew and niece have autism. My nephew has a shadow. My niece has a mild case. Both of my sisters are great moms. I've asked if they believe that they will ever live on their own. Both said that they are unsure. I'm amazed at the strength they have. Incredible love!
Patrick's 'shadow' is so amazing with him!
kate fevre
I agree. Wonder if there’s a little Tourette’s in there as well
I have a kid with Aspergers, Mysophonia, ADHD and OCD. Risperidone and Ritalin have made wonders for my son. He can finish tasks, doesnt has agressive fits anymore. But he's still figgity and has many vocal tiqs and others, and doesnt stop moving.. But i love that he's so active because i am too. (I have ADHD too so i understand)
Its hard, but we do anything for our children.
The16BitLolita oaky if that what the hell they did I wanna escape!
The16BitLolita I support you and stand by you. People like you need more " goodness" in their life because life is already difficult for people with asperger, ocd, adhd. For what it is worth. I come from a poor family. I got diagnosed with asperger and ADD. ( Also with OCD when I was young). Now I have my master degree. So there is hope " to become a successful member of society" and have a high social status. And I believe in your family. IQ is also fake. I did an IQ test when I was 14, I scored 92. When I was 18 I scored 120. Now I am 27 and I scored 139. So I wouldn't believe everything these doctor's say about your child's future. Greetings from Morocco ( very poor country)
hi my name is lluvia i have a kid with ADHD she is a gift from god and all the kids are a gift from god with a lot of love and patience go a vrey long aways😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇
There's a lot of anti-med propaganda out there, but I've taken antidepressants and they work great for me, and my friend who fosters high needs kids has seen meds do wonders for her kids' ability to learn and function. They're not for everyone, sure, but they're not evil or wrong either like so many people say. Thanks for putting your experience out there, it helps shift the conversation and teach people to be more accepting of different therapies!
How’s his misophonia doing?
I have it and want to work with autistic kids, just saw this comment and was curious to see how all adds together
It’s not strange to stare at a fan when it turns on when they’re excited they’re just tell you and happy
11:37 i cringed so hard when she clapped right in the kid’s face as a “reward” for doing well… that would be quite painful for someone with sensory issues, no wonder he’s not seeing much progress. I saw a lot of stuff happening in this doc that would be a sensory nightmare for the kids, as well as a focus on them “playing correctly”… it’s playing, they can play in the way that makes them happy. how about instead of working on training these kids to appear normal, you work on getting on their level and trying to communicate with them in a way that they understand. so glad that I was homeschooled as a kid, if i’d been in that environment i’m sure i wouldn’t have turned out half as functional.
I think it is because the film was made before 2002 (that's the release date). Even the way they talk about autism is so outdated.
There's nothing wrong with parents being upset that their children need special care that a "normal" child wouldn't need. Obviously the child shouldn't be punished because of that, but it's completely normal to feel that loss.
I have a 4 yr old son an he is autistic . Im getting into finding good programs to help him with his speech . I really appreciate this documentary , because i sometimes feel like im the only parent . Sad an worry a lot , i realize im not the only one . An it's a bit of reliever .
I want the mother of Christian and Alexia to begin feeling blessed by her children instead of cursed by them.
I have autism and I agree
I see a lot of comments of how Patrick’s mom is negative...I think she’s just real
OMG, the clapping. I don't know about this child, but my parents insisted on clapping to "encourage" me to do things, despite my complaining that they were clapping painfully loudly. I seem to recall it took *year* of complaining about that before they finally resentfully stopped clapping for me. I'm not sure they ever really did accept it, but I think over time they forgot about it.
Yeah find that very intimidating too. My parents luckily never did that but I've seen it on all ducumentaries about autistic children and think this is way too loud for many of them, they don't understand the meaning of it, and they just have to cope even more noise which could have been avoided...
I grew up in certain classes like these. Especially early special ed classes that were segregated from the rest of the school. And I'm almost fully nonspeaking now. I grew up semiverbal (or semispeaking) and basically early childhood isn't the only way you can regress and lose skills. There's something called late autistic regression and can take a normally speaking autistic into a higher support needs nonspeaking one especially if it's onset by severe trauma brain trauma or psychological trauma. Mine was both and I learned how to type my thoughts on a AAC tablet and as far ad the clapping goes its so patronizing. And it hurts our ears as autistics it's the loud sudden noises that gets to us the most. I feel so incredibly bad for these children and I can only hope they have access to alternative communication like typing or using a spelling board. It's not just about the parents it's about the children who grew up to become adults who have yet to have freedom of speech
Thanks to all these families for sharing their stories
Beautiful show! Especially at 4:20. There are so many parents that feel isolated!
This was a hard watch. Some of the things those parents said really upset me. I'm autistic, so is my partner and 3 year old son. We have a mortgage and are both fully integrated into our local community. We were both very 'different' as kids, as is our son, but I'm proud of his autism and am sure it will take him far, because look how far his parents have come!
Patrick's mom needs therapy. Hearing the way she talks about her son is heart breaking.
Agree.
To be fair, most everybody needs therapy one way or another.
Even if it's just once a month, going to tell somebody about something that ticked you off. Everybody needs therapy. No shame in that.
An incredibly disgusting amount of parents actually despise their children’s differences and decline ASD at first. This is what I hate about society sometimes, more than half of parents in the UK either declined or didn’t like their child’s differences.
@@TheOfficial_YoItSJaKe4091 I could say the same thing about the Republic of Ireland
Is that the one who said “I wouldn’t wish an autistic child on anyone”
Omg. She’s evil. Who says that about their child?
i appreciated for the teachers and the parents to make great progress on these young child. even their child had autism, their parents dont give up on them.
if this aids them there lucky often times school systems do more damage to special needs children then they do good
Victoria Bolton That's very true.
these childrens are lucky to be sent on the special school for people with special needs. yes some regular schools are a bad place for them to develop
i have a family member with autism and he is doing great his 8 and attending intervention school and therapy...he is independent at home and very compliant early intervention and lots of love and prayers help us through our rough time we have a long journey but we know we can make it we always trust God no matter what
❤
It's so upsetting to hear the parents describe their toddlers descent into autism, how they go from lively communicative children, to withdrawn introverts.. I understand how it in some ways must feel like losing one child and gaining another.
Imagine you have a loving sweet child, and then over a couple of weeks your child starts ignoring you, no more kisses & cuddles, no more looking to you to guide them, no more smiles, no more seeking safety in your arms..
Try to sympathize with these parents before judging them. They're not evil, they're hurt. And doing the best they can.
Thank u. This is so so true. My baby literally went from constant eye contact, smiles, babbling, thriving and hitting every milestone, to just like he was gone one day. He used to look at me and smile every single morning when I came in the room. One day I noticed he wouldn't look at me, or smile, as I walked in. He never did that again, and all I have are a video and picture to remember how it used to be. He used to always answer to his name or my voice, now it's like he doesn't even know I'm sitting next to him trying to interact in any way with him. It has been the hardest thing I've ever gone through and I really do not care if I offend anyone by being upset ab my child possibly needing 24/7 care for life and never really being able to breakout of the bubble his brain is in and reach out to the world and his family.
@@meganwright9763 I'm so sorry to hear that ❤ I'm sorry there's nothing me or anyone can do to help, I wish I could do something for you. I can't even imagine the hurt you're going through. ❤ stay strong!
From autistic childs point of view I do feel hurt if any parent says "I felt like my child was dead.". That's so harsh thing to say.
@@rosamajlis5436 I'll agree with that, that statement is way too harsh. ❤
Hurt by what? That their kids aren’t giving them constant validation anymore? If you were in the kids shoes, all you’d want is to be supported and accepted the way you are. Not wanting to fit your parents vision of the “perfect” child
My son is still on the spectrum, but he is wicked smart. He was mainstreamed at 6. We did medicate him, but honestly I think prayers were answered. We put our lives into him. Now, he has social skills deficits, but he is super STEM start and has beaten cancer. Cancer has been the harder journey. But he is the best gift I have.
I don't like how people on the comment thread are judging these parents for their choice of words or way of coping with the situation.
High functioning autistics are finding this offensive? I don't get why.
The kids shown here are not as high functioning and some have obvious shortcomings that prevent them to function optimally in a neurotypical society. The fear the parents must have for their child.. just thinking of what their future holds if he/she can't even express what they need properly.. I don't wish this anguish even on my worst enemies. Just thinking what will happen when the parents die or something unprecedented happens in the family.. must take a real toll on the family.
What I really liked about this documentary is the fact that these parents came together to help each other help the kids, who they love , to have some level of Independence in their every day lives.
Nowadays everything has become offensive.. 'm offended' is something u come across on the internet every single day.
I appreciate the fact that this video didn't sugarcoat anything.. it shows the real struggle .. raw emotions.. not all happy go lucky people who expects everybody to have the same reaction to every aspect of life.
Allow people to feel.. please.
raven9ify the reason is because we don't understand venting.... we also understand the thought process behind the behaviors these kids show.... and a lot of us understand that the body language as well as some of the ways these teachers talk to the kids are not the best for them.... I work with children like this regularly... and there's definitely a difference between when the special ed teachers interact with these kids and when I do... personally I see things all the time that the special ed teachers do that cause meltdowns without meaning to..... but they won't listen to me although the kids rarely have meltdowns when I am in control.... they're often taking away these kids control mechanisms for aesthetic purposes.... rocking serves a purpose flapping serves a purpose..... substitution instead of elimination tends to be what most of us on the Spectrum would suggest.... for example at work I fidget with my watch or dogtags instead of rocking or laying on hardwood flooring..... at home that might be a different story or I'm a rock and play with my dog tag at the same time when I get home.... and forced eye contact is just painful.... no way those kids can focus through that... they need to be taught how to look at the hairline or the background behind the person..... there are things you can do to help an autistic person blend into society without stressing the heck out of them.... a lot of Aba therapy would stress the heck out of me and I am a full grown adult who works at a job where I meet 50 to 60 new people everyday and none of my co-workers know I'm autistic. but the best way I think I can answer your question is some of the people in this video made us feel like these children and our lives are not worth living... that we have to be fixed for society to take us, to wart us.... I take offense it very little after all I'm a small-town cup... and I'm still a duck after this video I let this sort of thing roll off my back.... but I understand why this is offensive... to be someone like me who can function in both worlds it feels like you're an alien with normal people but there's nothing to identify you as an alien.... when I'm dealing with a normal person and an autistic person I feel like I'm the translator in the middle....
My son has autism. He went from being in the 90th percentile developmentally at the age of 17 months to non-speaking and Jon-responsive after almost dying from chicken pox. Through therapy and constant vigilance he is now 22 years old and working a full time job. He may always live at home but I consider him a success.
Melissa Laird/ it's the 21st century, what young adult who hasn't won the lottery can afford a house (I'm saying this to side your argument)
my sister has autism and shes 21, she hasnt been medically tested but its obvious she has it. The way these parents even think about finding a cure is just not going to happen, its a genetic thing in the brain that simply doesnt get better so as a family you learn to live with it and i honestly wouldnt change my sister for anything, she may not be social but she can talk to me and the family, she may not be academically bright but man shes an amazing artist with a wonderful imagination and sure she has her down days but you definitely cannot change a child or an adult with autism
Amy broadley heres the cure; dont get vaccines.
But we all have had vaccination so yeah it's genetics
@@chrisapplewhite6660 exactly!
If its genetic how can a child develop neuro-typical until vaccination??? I can pin point the exact time my grandson regressed, I have a photograph of a poorly, vaccinated, beautiful grandson who previously shared, made eye contact, verbalised etc to waking up having had his life in our world stolen from him.
I knew what to look out for, I have 3 degrees on children with autism but more than theory I have a multitude of experience within the field.
I am a teacher in a school for children with a diagnosis of ASD, also a loving grandmother to my eldest grandson with a diagnosis of ASD. This is not genetic in my grandsons case, he is my life and although I would never change him, I will also never hear him utter the words of "grandma" or see him settle down and start a family or a career. I won't be here for all of his life, he will be with me until mine ends, I don't know who will care for him.
ASD is a "spectrum" no two souls with autism are the same so everyone has a unique experience. Do not judge unless you have walked a day in the parents or child's shoes!
Society expects us to do well at school, meet a mate, start a family, have a career and live happily ever after. When that expectation and learned behaviour deviates from the plan and throws a child with SEN into the mix, the parent has lost the continuation of the family unit and it can act like a bereavement. It doesn't take away from the fact they love the child, just societies expectations are lost to them and they need to readjust.
If an adult suddenly changed the way a child does , like your grandson, they'd find the link immediately. But somehow just can't figure out why a child stops talking and changes out of nowhere. Obviously it's the money they are trying to protect and keep rolling in with their vaccines. Sorry that happened. I hate that families like yours have had to experience that pain . Stories like yours have saved other children from the same , even if it doesn't provide comfort to hear. It's made a difference for other children's futures
I am an adult with a late in life diagnosis and what she said at 13:38 was so offensive! Comparing a child with Autism to a child who passed away is just ignorant!
She seems preoccupied with HER dreams for HIS future- Autism or no Autism, just because a parent has dreams for their kids future does not mean the child will follow that path- and it’s completely unfair for parents to put that type of pressure on a kid. If the parents have dreams, they should chase those dreams for themselves- don’t expect your kids to chase your dreams- don’t ever compare any child to one that has passed away- it’s insulting and disrespectful- !
Christian's mom just wants a quick fix, not letting Christian develop and learn at his school. Medication is not always the answer. She ignores those kids. Those kids need love, patience, acceptance,and kindness. I have an autistic son. We have practiced love, patience,and kindness . We give him encouragement that he can be anything he wants to be, not set him to a standard.
As someone who is high functioning or autistic it's a little bit disconcerting to hear the parents say that it's like their child had died or that they have to be fixed with such disdain. These are people with disabilities not disabilities with the person! I do think neurotypical people might need some more education we are different, not of lesser value ❤
This makes me cry because I know what the parents are going through
I grew up with autism and ADHD when I was a kid and my family are there for me all the time-
I have Autism; it is not all a curse.
Horror Movie Addict/ it's cool how your talking bout curses and ur name is horror movie addict
Hope everythings good Hannah.
MagicSpyglass aka Chloe Eyyyyyy
Me too. These videos fill me with mixed feelings that I find difficult to express. Sadness most of the time as the carer often cause a lot of problems.
Indeed not😊
Wow, the teachers who work with these kids are saints. They get lousy pay but are willing to do such a tough job. We should all thank them for being willing to do what they do.
I have an enormous amount of respect for teachers working with any special needs children. They bring me hope for the future and tells me there still are many good people in the world. Real care is invaluable. Helping and building any child in need of help to grow is a really good investment for all of us. Great doc. thanks for the upload.
this whole things seems to focus on the negative of autism which there is some of but they ignore the positives of it I am married to an autistic man he is on the high functioning side I can see the positive first hand every autistic person has a extreme strong suit which they can use I will also they they are the most loyal trusting and honest people there are. they talk about curing autism the only thing that needs to be cured is the mind set that autism is a problem that needs fixing. just because someone sees the world through a different set of eyes dose not mean they are wrong. what the autistic community needs is people who are willing to accept that there is more then 1 type of play and more then 1 right way to do something. if allowed the right stimuli and lessons even a typical autistic can get a regular job and live on there own. its time to cure this mindset that if someones different there wrong.
really you believe einstein was a problem or how about mozart tim burton or any number of people with autistic sectrum disorter who were allowed to use there gift to the best of there abilities the problem is societies view of normal
Even people with lower functioning ASD can enrich other people's life. And those who have to ask HOW will never understand. Thumbs up Victoria!!!
Oh and Mr hacker, I might be saving one Zyklon B pellet personally for you :-) So next time be careful what you put in writing.
Run Car Snow Pen that mom is bad!
FurieMarie this video deserves more writing!
I have a high-functioning autistic son, he's definitely quirky but very sweet and caring and I always wonder if there's someone out there who will come to love him enough to marry him lol you give me hope ❤️
The scary thing is that these boys get stronger as they grow so if they have violent tendencies, it is harder to deal with. They can easily hurt someone without meaning to. Patrick's mom is so petite. I really hope he is no longer having tantrums etc.
I'm almost 21 & have autism. There were some guys who had or I assumed had a crush on me but I never had any feelings or thoughts on dating them because I don't see myself functioning well with another autistic person depending on what level they are on like non verbal for example. It's also what you said about these boys growing up bigger & stronger & can easily hurt someone. That really scares me becauseI don't want to be in a domestic violence situation.
1:34 "I wouldn't wish an autistic child on anybody." 13:33 "It's definitely like the child you had has died." don't want to be judgemental, but dayamn!
So true.
This lady is pure evil. No other way to say it.
autism doesn't necessary mean anything bad. You can have a kid that doesn't even seem affected and may not even find out they have it simply do to the fact that they seem just a little introverted.
Many autistic people would rather be autistic than "normal," and being autistic doesn't make a person unhealthy. Autism also doesn't change people, it's something we are born with. There are regressive forms of autism, but the person was still born with autism, it just takes longer to be obvious.
Being obviously autistic doesn't mean being changed. It's just the way that person is.
Yeah I'm an aspie and I agree with you
Bella Clements I am with you some are just so drugged up they don't really get the wright picture
exactly they put them on drugs and then showcase only children with the bad side of autism.
And to think, this was over 6 years ago - there is so much more understanding of autism and the spectrums around it.
Have to laugh at the mum cooking with all the screaming in the background lol. Sounds like our house. We have 2 autistic kids too. It's amazing how you get so used to the numerous types of stimming.
Stop judging parents-those who never went through this! It is a blow in your face-to find out that your child is autistic, because it changes all your life as a parent! It is not easy to raise an ordinary child, but raising a child with autism requires a lot more patience, hard work and knowledge how to deal with it! I understand why parents so desperate here-they are worried about child's future in this standardized and cruel world! However, I agree that parents should not accept autism as a horrible desease, because it is not!
this post is four years old but i hope you see this. i agree with your thinking. being a parent and finding out your child is on the autism spectrum is devastating. All you thought about for the future is gone, or at least majorly CHANGED. it's hard to deal with it all and it's hard to deal with the schools and the public. It's just very hard to see a child go from what is thought as "normal" to being a completely different child. People need to understand this. The world is cruel out there.
I have an autistic son. I found him amazing and interesting. Patrick's mother needs therapy. She has such distance in her language between her and her son. I hope that changes for that family's sake.
I thought the same thing. She even said it felt like her son was dead. No, lady, that IS your son.
I'm autistic, and it always pisses me off when autistic kids are decribed like things instead of people.
The teachers and I think the teachers the documentary called "shadow teachers" are remarkable. And these parents are amazing. But most of all these children are amazing, beautiful and intelligent.
God bless everyone dealing with this disorder, both parents and children.
Dont forget Adults
I'm autistic and I hate this documentary. I don't need to be cured, I'm doing good in my life and my family love me. This documentary is very negative and generalises us.
Bevan Worthington/ 🙌👏🙌👏👐👏👐👏 yes girl/boy yes
Bravo
Ben Harrison I agree. This documentary acts like autism is some kind of curse when that obviously isn’t true.
Actually I'm too, but for the most severe cases, there could be some more helpful treatment if only for making communication easier so that the person doesn't get so confused when they can't communicate. I hope you get my point. I personally also don't want to be cured.
I have High Functioning Autism, and I gotta say this documentary is disgraceful to us. They act like it’s a disease that can only come in bad ways. They do not look at the positives, just the negatives 89% of the time. Even the people being interviewed do not feel relieved that they have a special kind of love and communication type. I wish it could be better for those kids though, no one would want a parent who doesn’t care about their difficulties and perceives them as “neurotypical” when in reality, they aren’t.
My son had brushing therapy 5 times a day with joint compression and did very well still makes noises but can interact with others and goes to school. I could not touch him with out him screaming when he was an infant. He is now 13 and doing very well.
Harvard student here (not that it matters)
My brother and I have autism. His is more sereve than mine. The difference between him and I is that he went to special Ed School and my parents avoided putting me in there by faking the test and diagnose however failed the speech evaluation. Also side note I was extremely anti-social and talked to 0 people most of the time except for the random people that said Hi. I really just hated being around people, because I can never relate to them.
I totally hated the act of speaking, because a lot of what people said didn't interest me, and although my language in my head wasn't any form of english or any language for that matter. In English terms I thought everybody was wrong and quite weird. They were like incomponent animals. Of course I didn't use those analogy in my head because I had a limited phrase of reference of vocabulary at that point in my life so most of it was just abstractions of ideas. I went to speech therapy from kindergarten to Middle School. Totally hated it.
Anyways it's really about the stimulus around an autistic child and most importantly the dopamine receptors. I would never tell an autustic child to run because it creates a dopamine rush in the brain. I would just suggest for them to speed walk. Although I never actually told anyone that, it's really just a suggestion because it puts their dopamine at a lower rate which can later be compensated for learning. Dopamine in learning usually requires lower dopamine levels to be affect, but not low enough to be tiresome. I usually spent my free time counting thousands of pennies as a kid in secret in a little closet I used to hide into probably 3 times a week, and of course watch Spongebob and did normal kid stuff just not with PEOPLE. I put the pennies in hundreds of combinations of groups etc. Because of this I grew to be an excellent person in mathematics. I did the counting thing not because I was 'loved' with math or anything but because the only form of money I had was in dirty old coins that I would buy Diet Coke with from the ice cream man. So combination with dopamine from Diet Coke and money sort of is how I wired my brain to enjoy maths because I conditioned my brain with a positive process. The weird thing is they took me OUT of mathematics as a kid to go to speech therapy because they thought I was too dumb. There was 3 tracks at my school for grading, Track A to Track C. Track A for the smartest people and Track C for the lower end, but not special ED. I was in Track C.
Everyday I wanted to get out of the speech therapist room to go to mathematics. I didn't really care much about mathematics at the time, I just really hated speech. Although I can communicate quite well, and think in English NOW, I used to hate talking to people except for the people who enjoyed hearing my ideas. Of course they could never understand what I was saying because I didn't really speech english or any language, they still nodded. Also I'm not talking about the therapists who would hear me ideas, I hated therapists. I knew all their tricks and how they would fake a smile. I would always bother them by smiling whenever I can outside of the therapy room, I would force a smile all day, every week, every month, and only STOP smiling whenever I got into the therapy room just to let them know I hated them. Sure I sound like I spoiled person from a normal perspective but when you have no way of communicating with actual words it can be the only way out. Just learn the signs. Also I think the smiling conditioned my brain to love everything but people but hey that's good for me.
The point is if you treat kids like my brother like idiots from the start, they're going to become idiots. All kids are idiots. The only think that possibly kept me alive was the belief that "they were wrong". Nothing was wrong with me.
Never put your kids in a special Ed Class, ever. You're the average of the 5 people you hang out with, and if the average of 5 people you hang out with are the people who bang their heads against the walls, then you're going to have a hard time resisting.
I'm now attending Harvard University due to my astounding efforts in mathematics and English (in writing) because my parents didn't average me out with the special ed students.
Thank you very much for your opinion and your story. I have the same opinion get the most from your child... Not bringing him or her to therapy that he or she hates and where the therapist overrate their knowledge and mostly insulting the intelligence of your kid.
Probook, I admire you so much for overcoming all those sessions with the therapist, for being strong enough to get through on your own terms and in your own way. I hope you continue to do well and enjoy your life, you sound such a determined and thoughtful sensitive person who deserves to have the best out of what life offers.
With some of these children the training seems more of a torture.
My son was talking up a storm by 1 years old...by 2 years old he wasn't saying a word...now at 5 with alot of work he's slowly coming along...and for the lady who said "I dont wish an autistic child on anyone" how dare you!!! They are very special children and you love them the same maybe a little more!
very informative. I would like to see a video documenting how the families have done over the years. also more research should be done into nutrition therapy.
I have a severly autistic child. it is a total loss of any normalcy. my life is crazy now. I would not wish my life I have now on anyone. it is total craziness.
This documantry is so old. 1 out of 500. They now say it's one out of 80.
They're always widening the diagnostic criteria so way more people get diagnosed now, who used to be just called socially awkward or weird
Now it’s being said something like 1 in 56 kids. 24 child difference from a year ago when you wrote this.
Oliver seems like such a happy, kind, smart boy. He's lovely to watch. Also, you can tell how much Patrick's father adores him. He always seems to have a smile on his face when talking about him and almost teared up talking about him being able to ride his bike to the store.
cant imagine how hard this is the for parents, hard to know what to do, those who dont have the resources or a support system.. so hard must be devastating on the marriage too.
It is absolutely devastating. The worst part is u can't even talk ab it, even in parenting groups for asd kids, bc they're overrun w people now who tell parents they aren't allowed to have any negative emotions ab autism or they're "victimizing themselves/ableist." the autism inclusivity movement actually got the biggest genetic study for autism cancelled bc they were worried it'd be used to lower the rates of autistic children being born/abortion. They really denied all of us answers and help for our kids just bc they didn't want their community to get smaller.
@@meganwright9763 i agree with you, it is very, very hard. as far as the marriages being strained, if one partner feels the other partner's genes are to blame...look out!
The docs a bit outdated but a lovely documentary :)
I have a beautiful son who has autism and he is the most beautiful thing that has happened to me in life he has 5añitost to much advanced in his therapies I am super proud of him
...and then you go google the title to learn this is a 2002 documentary, so it's severely outdated.
While I know how these parents feel..my biggest worry is, will my son be independent? Will he be OK when I'm gone?? I'm pretty much all he has, but when I die I want him to be OK on his own. This is my biggest fear because of his problems. He has not been diagnosed, however he is getting speech & OT services. I just pray he will get better.
Your response touch my soul... god bless him everywhere
Are you from the US? If so, I highly recommend getting a diagnosis, so your child can have access to even more services.
I'm from New Mexico, and we have a state funded program here for adults with severe enough developmental disabilities that prevent them from being independent. My sister is currently getting those services, thanks to being diagnosised, and she has a family living provider, a community access provider, and is on social security disability. The family living provider, who doesn't have to be related to that individual, provides that individual with a place to live. The respite care provider provides that individual with fun activities and outings while the family living provider is doing other things, and the community access person helps that individual gain better access to community events, places, etc to achieve individualized goals for that individual. My sister, who has mobility issues, recently got a brand new walk-in shower, which was fully paid for by the state since it was medically needed. My sister is also on Medicaid since she is on disability.
Each state has their own programs that they fund in order to assist those, who need it, with individualized services, like a place to live, for example. So, if I were you, I would first work on getting your son a formal diagnosis, so he can have access to those kinds of services, and then I would research which programs/services are available for those with developmental disabilities in your area besides OT & speech therapy. I also highly recommend that you have your son gain access to social security disability, so he can have a steady income and a since of pride in having his own bank account and money to spend on the things that he wants/needs. Again, he will not be able to get any of that unless he has a formal diagnosis. So, I highly recommend that you get him diagnosised first and foremost, so you won't have to be concerned about those kinds of things anymore. Also, every single provider who works for a state agency, goes through both a state and federal background checked, are throughly trained, and have excellent references. So, I hope you get your son some more help, so, hopefully, this won't have to be a concern anymore.
My 13 year old nephew is on the autism spectrum, high functioning, has no friends and is homeschooled because of bullying. I just wana wring their necks and tell them that he’s just like them, wants friends and wants to be accepted. Pisses me off and hurts my heart. He’s a great kid with a great sense of humor, we love him very much just the way he is. Period. When will this bullying crap end!
When she, being the mum, said at the beginning that she doesn't wish an autistic child upon anyone, it just absolutely broke my heart
The Amazing Septiplier Is Not On Fire I know. Typical ableism. It's so frustrating it makes me want to scream. When will the world learn to accept us fully and without complaint?!
elsa1942 I agree! Autism is not a disease, it's a beautiful thing. It can be a pain in the ass for you and those around you, but it's not something people should feel sorry for
I totally understand where the mom is coming from. I have a much younger sister with autism that I had to help raise. She is very low functioning. I love her more than words could ever describe, and I think she is wonderful just the way she is. But I will not lie. Her autism has made life hard for all of us, and I would not wish that hardship on anyone.
No one ever wishes for a disabled kid. But if you have one, you learn to love and raise it in a whole new way to help them.
these moms are terrible trying to fix their children like if they were broken, experimenting with different drugs. It broke my heart when Patrick was asking for his pills and it wasn't time for it and he began to hurt himself that is an addictive behavior his body is asking for the drug 😢. The other mom when eating dinner said if her child would just eat his dinner life would be completed and they all laughed, so mean poor baby doesn't have control of his body. The Dad should be helping out with him while the mom takes care of the girl and they can both teach the older one to be kind, understanding and helpful too. That whole thing on medication just upsets me so much, everyone is crazy pill popping there kids like if puff magically they can be fix. It's a learning disability! Early intervention,one on one interaction, exposing them different learning techniques and environments is the key and they will all be successful in there own way. Some will make it to college and some will just learn to speak, use sign, point at pictures to comunicate, get dressed on their own, make a meal for themselves... but all of that is success and it should be celebrated as that. I would never gamble with my child's life by giving him medication knowing I can lose him because I want him to be fix or normal, that is selfish. Everyone is different and if you can't accept that from your own children then you have a problem.
@Phil King you are a horrible human being for saying that
Hats off to these parents!…❤️
I respect these parents and teachers. It takes a lot of patience to deal with autism.
My son's brother is Austistic, very Low functioning. He is non verbal, and will always need to be cared for. He was very violent from an early age and it went on til he was about 12 ( once we got him on risperidon ). It is definitely a life saver. He is a big boy and would attack his dad daily and have big meltdowns at school and stores, since being on the drug we have had no incidents and couldnt ask for a better child :)
Is your sons brother not your son?
@@jonnichols1099lmfao, right!!??
Your sons brother? So, your son?
Patricks mom is really hard on her words...
Jane Doe Unfortunately, it's a site effect of being British ...
Jane Doe she's living with her situation everyday, why sugarcoat it for viewers
Joey Adams she's not British joey she's Australian
MizzyRose1994 BlueBerry OK , dually noted, unfortunately the majority of the World hears her & assumes it's a British accent, without being around English & Aussie, folks more in a day to day environment or being a linguistic. English , is just what one would think. after all as bad as they may not like it, England is where the Australians heritage hails from isn't it or if ?
You could say that England is where the American heritage hails from if you're going that route.
My daughter is 14yrs old and her level of autism is not so bad. I taught her a lot of things writing, helping me with the house work ,toilet trained her. It was not easy but she learned how to do it. But she cannot read. But it's OK. She doesn't like doctors and hospitals. So I avoid giving her junk food and cold snacks that will make her sick. But I let her eat junk once a week. I take her everywhere with me. Patience, love and understanding. I love her with all my heart
I’d love to see them have the money to build an all new school and have all the supplies and resources they need and more! This is such a beautiful school and I know this is a very old video and these children are grown a lot now but there are many more small children in need of this amazing school …there should be schools like this in every town and city! If I hit the lottery this would be a goal of mine!
It would be great to see a follow up video on these kids.