At first, I hesitated grappling with the personal nature of this topic, contemplating whether to open this dialogue. But with great consideration, as I reflected on its profound impact in fostering acts of kindness, I resolved to share my heartfelt insights. I invite you to continue reading.
My son has a combined disability with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). As I observe him navigating his daily routine, it’s evident that he faces challenges with executive function. Tasks like time management, getting ready for school, recalling information that he recently acquired and many other things prove difficult. Despite these hurdles, he’s shown remarkable progress over the years, adhering to a structured routine that provides him comfort. Routines like, asking the same questions before each new task, putting on chapstick as soon as he’s settled on the bus, and being at home in bed by a specific time, gives him reassurance.
My current concerns extend to his experiences at school and his academic progress. I push him to excel, not to conform to societal norms but to fulfill his potential. He is remarkable in his own way though. He enthusiastically collects chime clocks adorned with Roman numerals. He possesses unique skills, such as identifying bus and train models as soon as he sees them and noticing architectural details like patterns, beautiful metalwork, or carvings, skills which often go unnoticed in today’s achievement-focused culture.
He copes with stress through stimming and struggles to connect with peers due to social awkwardness. Stimming can manifest as playing with his hair, fidgeting, or displaying restlessness or repetitive laughter. Additionally, my son often engages in masking, a term describing efforts by individuals with autism to appear typical in order to fit in socially, which can be exhausting. Though he may always grapple with executive functioning and social interaction difficulties, I remain hopeful for his growth and acceptance.
In these moments, acts of kindness hold immeasurable significance. A smile, a nod, a wave or a simple gesture of inclusion can alleviate his loneliness and brighten his day. Whether it’s sharing a story, inviting him to join an activity, or simply being understanding, kindness serves as a powerful antidote to isolation.
For instance, when someone takes the time to acknowledge his interests or shares a moment of joy with him, it fosters a sense of belonging. Kindness can manifest in various forms, from letting him pet one’s dog, or patiently listening to him recount details about buses to inviting him to participate in a shared activity or offering assistance with tasks he finds challenging.
Ultimately, I believe kindness transcends barriers and heals unseen wounds, offering solace to those navigating life with differences. So, let us embrace kindness as a transformative force, enriching both the giver and the receiver.
Observations of Kindness and Autism by GP