Coping with "Invisible Illnesses"

A.J. and Poppy together at the park

As I was preparing the finishing touches to my latest blog post, I was side swiped with another issue that needed to be addressed first.

Our grandson has yet again faced the inhumane behaviour of others, too hell bent on gaining laughs and self-gratification from other's misfortunes.

After posting this quick comment onto our Facebook page, I was taken aback thinking about the enormity of this type of issue.

Understanding the Neurology and Social Construction of our kids

A.J. after receiving his new prescription glasses,
so intent on describing all the finer detail
of what he now can see around him 

When we become a parent, being a mere 'Neurotypical', to an Autistic or special needs child, we slowly realise what they encounter in everyday life due to their differences, while facing situations that others will take for granted as being simple common-sense actions behaviours and mannerisms.

To understand how the neurology of any child can differ is one thing, although to realise what that means for our special kids (and ASD adults) is another.

Knowing how they may struggle socially with basic concepts, and situations relating to specific social cues and complex social situations; struggling with the concept of 'Idioms' and hidden meanings within words and conversations, and how this will

“I am really confused!” What is your preference and does it 'really' matter.

Firstly before I address this very touchy topic, I would like to acknowledge and confirm that I am stating this topic on a purely need-to-know and understand basis;

I have not done so to insult, target, or degrade anyone in any way, and if anyone may feel I have done so, then I apologise as that was not my intention.

I now know, as so many state, “I am a Neurotypical”,

and then I will follow by saying, - with an “Autistic grandson”;

although I have also stated, “I have a grandson with Autism”,

-or Autism Spectrum Disorder, and other diagnosed 'labels' i.e.- “Aspie”.

Yes at the end of the day these are all definitions of society's stated LABELS!

Acceptance, Understanding and Expectations for our child.

A.J. finding the simplest of things to enjoy

Understanding the complexities of our special man can be one thing, coping with the differences at the 'time' of a meltdown or anxiety attack, and then the confusion that follow, is another.

We definitely do sympathise with our kiddies and totally get their mannerisms and behaviour, but that doesn't make us immune emotionally from the aftermath; and 'that' does NOT give anyone else the right to assume to understand, judging us or our child.

They are not living our lives 100% and therefore cannot determine from a single moment or an isolated situation in time how the full events of a single day/week/month can play out.

Understanding how the smallest of details and the littlest thing can upset the harmonious balance they so need and require internally and environmentally,