Would you tell people that your child has ASD

People on the shoulders-sg support group (parents with ASD children) posted a question: Would you tell people that your child has autism? This email receives so many hits! People start telling people horrifying stories of how their children have been mistreated, wronged, bullied, etc....

What's my answer to the question? YES! I will. Painfully to narrate, but when his sunday school teacher commented to others that he was problematic and has "something less" in him, I really was very angry. I called up the person-in-charge of Sunday school, told him and taught that he would support me. And his reply -- "This is how the society and people will see our children. If someone were to come to help, I will be very surprised!". And guessed how disgusted I was.

That was the turning point in my life to tell people about BJ and his condition. I find others more accepting now, more willing to look into his interest.

But, now, the children in his sunday school class start to ask me weird question. A super-intelligent genius girl came to ask me, "Why is James so funny, and he talks like a baby?" It did not take long for that girl to recognize a deficit, but it may take a while for understanding and compassion to set in. (Such is a world where talents srufaced as jewels and the underpriviledged sunk and forgotten. Sad.) Now I have work to tell other children about BJ and his autism.

How would BJ think and feel about the girl's comment? I don't know. Do I care? Yes, I do. I care a lot, a lot!

Mother's Day gift

Ha...it's been a while since I blogged. Today's mother's day. Yeah, what do I want out of today?

Sure that every mum with a special needs child hopes for a miracle on Mother's Day! :)

James and Lauren made orchid pins at Sunday School today. Was about to pick them up from class, but the teacher brought them down to the sanctuary. I looked back from my seat and saw my babies. BJ ran to me with the orchid pin. We hugged, and his pecked me on my cheek. How wonderful! I have not expected that!!! Wonder whether he knows what's the significance of mother's day, or what mother's day is all about. What a kiss speaks a million words.

This afternoon he wanted to poo....He ran to the potty, sat down, and did his business. As usual, I tell him, "BJ, tell mummy when you are done." Then I read newspaper and waited for him. And, I heard noises (potty on the floor, washing sound from hose). I rushed to the toilet, and to my horror, the potty was washed clean. The "sai" and toilet paper in the toilet commo, his bottom wiped, and he tried to clean his bottom with the water from the hose.

Of course, I cleaned him with water and soap. But in my heart, I was very proud of him. He did EVERYTHING on his own. Amazing 4 year old. And, of course, I showered him with praises and compliments that he could do these self care items all by himself. (Two weeks ago, we told the paediatrician that he needs help with toileting. But proud me now, he is quite perfect in takin care of his own self care needs).

I received my mother's day gift from BJ today!