There are staggering statistics on how many gifted children display symptoms of autism or other similar conditions (like sensory processing disorder). Unfortunately, there are way too many people that assume the exact opposite. The assumption that children facing these challenges are "dumb" has spread like wildfire and I can't understand it, personally. The truth of the matter is that these children are truly brilliant. While they may "suffer" developmental delays in some areas such as riding a bike or learning to write neatly, they make up for it in spades in other areas. Some are brilliant musically or artistically. Some are brilliant in math or can remember the periodic table at two or three years old. I use the word "brilliant", in this case, because it completely and totally applies.
So what's the secret to bringing out the amazing talents within an autistic child? It's all about the people around him. Skilled teachers understand that autistic children have brains that operate on a different level. They are experienced in helping to bring out the best in every child including children with challenges. Does that mean an expensive private school? In some cases and for some children, yes. For others, though, it might just mean finding a school with teachers who are willing and able (meaning their classrooms are not too full to function) to work with your child one on one.
The point of all of this is to take a second look. If you are the parent of a child with a challenge such as autism, look deeper because there is something incredible underneath all of this. If you are observing an autistic child, watch....there is something brilliant about to pop out. Believe me when I say that there are incredible blessings in the heart of each and every child facing these challenges and they are going to accomplish great things!
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