Matty had an opportunity to be a reader at our church service last weekend.
The boy who they told us might never speak.
He was a leader to all and showed what's possible. He did it his way and was appreciated and accepted for being himself. Out in the real world.
When Matty was a younger child, I struggled with wondering if his school placement should be a typical school or a specialized school for students with disabilities. *
A friend who's son was a few years older than Matty challenged me with her view.
She said - when our kids become adults, will there be a specialized grocery store for them? A special time for them to be at the movie theater or restaurants? As parents, should we be expected to only bring our kids out into the world during designated times?
OR
Imagine a world where our kids and loved ones with disabilities belong in the grocery store, the movie theater, restaurants and the world - at all times - just like anyone else.
This vision spoke to me back then and still speaks to me now.
I encourage families like ours to continue showing the world what's possible.
Autism belongs in every space and community.
Autism belongs everywhere. 💙💙
* Written with respect for families who send their child to a specialized school because educationally or locationally, that's what makes the most sense for their child.
