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| Ryan, Nick, Cam |
Last October my youngest three boys were invited to their first formal event, a friend’s quinceañera. Yes, they’ve been to family weddings and other special occasions, but this invitation came from a friend, not family. Talk about reactions: one son was quiet, probably worried that he might have to talk with someone; another was excited because he loved to talk and dance; the third just smiled.
I coached each one as needed. I gave one son some questions to ask if he felt uncomfortable around people. The next I gave guidelines on staying on a given subject. The third just smiled. We also researched the event online, so they would know what to expect. We went through the history as well as the rituals of the event. They were prepared.
Ryan, Nick, and Cam dressed up and let me take pictures. This was not common, and I could not believe my eyes. My boys were not my little babies. It just really hit me that they’ll be out in the world more and more.
The evening was a blast. I wish more people could have seen them. Too often, many are uncomfortable around autistic kids. My kids acted like everyone else. They laughed and danced, enjoying the festivities. They were fine!
sherylscript 