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To the Mom of the Autistic Boy at the Pool
I noticed you.
I saw you gently grasp your son’s hand, the way many boys his age wouldn’t be caught doing in public. It was a clear sign that he needed that connection.
You were sizing up the hotel pool, keenly aware of potential sensory triggers and seeking the best spot—one that was near the exit and the water. I watched you encourage your son to join in, prompting him to dip his toes in first. His hands were firmly clamped over his ears, and even though he squinted at the brightness, I saw him begin to relax. His hands stayed near his head, but you could tell he was finding his groove as he flapped them occasionally.
You, your husband, and your daughter formed a protective circle around him, all smiles, yet I noticed your eyes were still on high alert, constantly scanning the surroundings. I smiled back at you, hoping you’d catch it. I wanted to fist-bump you or give you a high-five, but, well, you know how it goes when you’re keeping an eye on your own little one. Using a line like “Flap here often?” seemed a bit too cheesy, so I settled for my smile, which was genuinely meant to convey understanding and support.
The next morning at breakfast, I spotted you again. You were doing the usual morning routine, and I offered a friendly “good morning.” I overheard your son anxiously asking, “What time is it?” to which your husband, with a hint of exhaustion, replied, “It’s vacation. It doesn’t matter what time it is.” I could sense your sigh; you understood the importance of routine while also trying to keep peace at the same time.
I hope your vacation was enjoyable. It might not have been the typical getaway others dream of, but I truly hope it was fulfilling for your family. Watching you all made me feel less alone amidst the “typical” families around us. I wish we could have connected more; perhaps we would have shared a laugh over a joke only we could understand. Maybe you’ll come across this and realize you weren’t the only family navigating autism at that resort.
Here’s hoping for more encounters with families like ours, to share smiles, support, and a sense of camaraderie at the pool or beyond.
In case you’re considering expanding your family, check out this resource for insights on home insemination kits. Another great source is this link that covers everything you need to know about self-insemination. And if you’re interested in IVF and fertility preservation, I recommend this excellent resource.
Summary
This piece highlights a mother’s recognition and understanding of another family navigating autism during their vacation. It reflects on the shared experiences and camaraderie that come with parenting children on the spectrum, emphasizing the importance of connection and support among families in similar situations.