Dear Friends,
You may know my son, Leo. He is the one who often calls out in class rather than raising his hand. He’s the one who brings a smile to your face as he spins and runs joyfully in circles. He might sometimes seem distant when you ask him a question and he doesn’t respond, and occasionally, he may react in ways that surprise you, like when he gets frustrated or upset. Leo is also the one who sometimes struggles to control his emotions, which can lead to him hitting a teacher or throwing objects.
I want to share with you that Leo is on the autism spectrum. While this term might not mean much to you right now, I hope it will help you understand him better in the future. What’s most important is that Leo truly wants to connect with each of you. I’ve witnessed his efforts—how he reaches out to invite you to play, even if sometimes you can’t hear him from across the room. He may accidentally knock over your block tower, but it’s his way of seeking interaction. He talks about you at home, calling you his friends, which shows how much he values those connections.
I greatly appreciate your kindness and understanding. Even when Leo has moments of anger and reacts inappropriately, I see you being there for him the next day, offering hugs and companionship. Your ability to forgive is truly remarkable.
However, I worry about the day when that patience might wear thin. I fear that if you find it too challenging to deal with his outbursts or if you grow tired of engaging with someone who may not always look you in the eye, you might start to judge him. I hope that you remember that beneath any difficult behavior, Leo has a genuine desire for friendship.
Did you know that 1 in 68 children are diagnosed with autism? This statistic means that in your classroom, there may be two or three of you who face similar challenges. For those who also experience difficulties with social interactions, understanding each other might be particularly hard.
The visible marks that Leo may leave on you will heal with time and the love of your families. Yet, the invisible scars that he may carry from unkind words or looks may linger far longer. It’s crucial to recognize that you have the power to choose kindness and to set an example for others to follow.
While I am understandably concerned for Leo’s future, I hold onto hope that you will continue to show him respect and compassion, even when it’s difficult.
Warm regards,
The Mother of Leo
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In summary, the journey of understanding and supporting children like Leo can be challenging yet rewarding. Embracing compassion and patience is key to fostering friendships and creating a supportive environment for all.