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Every Morning at School: A Parent’s Perspective
Every morning, I drop off my son, Leo, at school, where the routine is well-established. You enter from the north, circle around to the rear entrance, and school staff greet you at your vehicle with cheerful farewells like, “Have a fantastic day!” In just a few minutes, you’re on your way. However, today was different.
Before me was a sleek German car, and a father was leaning into the backseat. It became apparent after a few moments that his child was not going to exit the vehicle. A male teacher approached to assist, and together they managed to coax the visibly resistant student out and toward the school doors. This child was large for his age; despite being around ten years old, he was the size of an adult.
As they made their way, the student suddenly tried to escape. The teacher attempted to restrain him, and in the ensuing struggle, they both ended up on the ground. Another staff member rushed to their aid, and together they helped the child regain his footing and enter the school. From an outsider’s perspective, this was an ideal example of handling a student with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)—textbook in execution.
Yet I was not just an observer; I was a parent in my car, watching and feeling the weight of the future for Leo. If that child had been outside of a supportive environment, he might have seemed threatening, and others could have reacted with fear. This situation encapsulates the anxiety I carry daily—the relentless pressure of ensuring my son’s safety and well-being.
While Leo is making progress—improving in eye contact, conversational skills, and short-term memory—he still struggles significantly with emotional regulation. The reality is that my sweet, affectionate son can also hit, kick, and behave aggressively when he feels frustrated or angry. Such behaviors are not playful; they are serious and concerning.
Right now, I can physically remove Leo from a situation when he becomes overwhelmed, but as he grows, that may no longer be feasible. I need to connect with him; I need solutions for his anxiety, or at the very least, temporary relief. The urgency is palpable, and I often feel as though I am racing against time and losing.
As the father returned to his car, I caught his eye and offered a wave. I’m not sure if he saw me, but that gesture was for my own reassurance. “It’s alright. We understand,” I wanted to convey. In that moment, I hoped to show him that I wasn’t afraid of his son. Because if Leo were to struggle as visibly in the future, I would need someone to extend that same kindness to me.
Further Reading
For more insights on parenting children with ASD, you might find this related post beneficial: 15 Things I Know Being The Parent Of A Child With Autism. Additionally, for those exploring the topic of fertility, Make A Mom offers valuable resources, and News Medical is an excellent source for pregnancy and home insemination information.
Conclusion
In summary, navigating the challenges of parenting a child with autism can be daunting, yet moments of connection and understanding can provide comfort and hope. As we face these struggles, we must remember the importance of community support and kindness.