Did you know April is Autism Awareness month? I'd prefer we change it to Autism Acceptance Month---trust me, I'm aware. In fact, with the incidence rate at 1 in 68 (1 in 54 boys), autism has reached an all time high in recognition and diagnosis.
I think most everyone has heard of autism at this point--and almost everyone knows someone with autism. Yet, we have trouble sometimes finding acceptance for people on the spectrum. I find it frustrating that because my son doesn't "look" disabled, he is not always given the accommodations he needs.
Yet, every so often, there's a glimmer of hope in the storm. When he gets nervous, or excited, or upset, he has to get sensory input to offset the emotion. He will try to get it by jumping or pacing...or if we are at home by jumping on the mini-trampoline, riding his scooter or his bicycle. When we are in public places, this is harder to do. You get some strange looks for jumping in a store for "no reason." He's learning ways to cope and how to find sensory release that is more socially acceptable. I've noticed he will tap his toes or drum on his leg with his thumb to get some sensory input and release the tension. I've noticed he might find a small hallway (such as to a bathroom) and pace in the hall where he's out of sight.
I enjoy seeing him grow and learn to deal with his sensory needs.
Check out these other fantastic posts as a part of the Sensory Blog Hop:
.jpg "Coolestmommy's Coolest Thoughts")
