My eldest son is on the autism spectrum. He entered the world just as the awareness of autism was growing, and before there were clear guidelines on how to raise a child with unique needs. Now that he’s a teenager, I’ve embraced a future that may be different from what I once envisioned. With time, I’ve started to appreciate the numerous benefits of having an autistic teen in my life.
- No Boy Band Concerts: Over the past seventeen years, I’ve been spared from the chaos of boy band concerts. My son has little interest in pop culture, and even if he did, we’d need industrial-grade ear protection just to step inside a venue—something I’d happily wear to keep him comfortable.
- Fashion Freedom: Clothing is a non-issue in our house. As long as it’s comfortable, my son couldn’t care less about fashion trends. I’ve braved those stores that smell like a cologne factory explosion, but my son is blissfully indifferent to what he or anyone else wears. This is a relief for us both, not to mention a win for my sensitive nose!
- Honesty is Key: While we may not have a lot of eye contact, it’s not due to distractions like a phone. My son communicates his thoughts directly—whether he’s late, too loud, or simply in need of a snack, he lets me know without hesitation. No need for guessing games here!
- Curfews Made Easy: I recall the days of negotiating curfews with my own parents, often sneaking back home. Now, I can confidently say that I know exactly where my teen is every weekend. If he’s up late, it’s probably because he missed his bedtime routine.
- Savings on Insurance: I sleep soundly at night, not worrying about late-night driving or car accidents. The absence of a teen driver means we can save on car insurance too!
- Still Friends: While there are certainly friends he prefers to hang out with, I’m grateful to maintain my spot on his list of people he enjoys spending time with. For now, I can still feel cool in his eyes—at least until my other children enter their teenage years.
- Affectionate Nature: We’ve skipped the classic “don’t touch me” phase. My son is loving and will hold my hand or give me hugs without hesitation. If only we weren’t the same size, he’d happily sit on my lap.
- Minimal Drama: Sure, we have our share of frustrations—like when his schedule is interrupted or public transport is delayed—but thankfully, we’re free from the typical teen drama. No gossiping or social rivalries to worry about here!
- Pure Kindness: Above all, my son possesses a genuine kindness. He treats everyone equally, whether they’re wealthy or struggling, young or old. He would never engage in gossip or speak unkindly of others.
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In summary, raising an autistic teen comes with its unique set of advantages. From the absence of typical teenage drama and fashion pressures to the comfort of knowing where they are at all times, these perks make the journey rewarding. Embracing the honesty, kindness, and affection that come with parenting an autistic child is truly a blessing.