Do you want to know how to explain autism acceptance to kids? In this episode of Bluebee TeeVee, James and Leo talk about what ‘acceptance’ means for those on the autism spectrum and how it is a choice everyone can make.
Acceptance. It’s one of the most important needs we have as humans. That and feeling loved.
What does acceptance mean? It means that you are okay just the way you are. When someone accepts us we can be ourselves without fear of being made fun of or being rejected. It helps you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin.
Acceptance is also something you hear a lot about from the autism community. “We want you to accept us for who we are. We want to be ourselves, have friends, join in activities and make valuable contributions in class…in our communities…in the world! We want to be happy and live good lives just like you.”
Here’s what Lydia Wayman has to say about acceptance as a part of #Activate4Autism:
Autistic people are part of your school and community. They are your friends, family members, neighbors and fellow humans. “We are here and want to be included because this is our world too.” Acceptance for those with autism is a choice you can make today that will have a positive impact:
- Acceptance for someone with autism means that you include them because their differences make life more interesting and fun.
- See beyond differences and appreciate what is unique about people on the spectrum. See them as people, not a disability.
- It also means embracing and valuing autistic people instead of being afraid, having low expectations, or trying to find a way to make them “not autistic.”
- Forget “normal” – there is no such thing as normal anything and we don’t want a world where everyone’s the same—how boring would that be?
Just saying or thinking “I accept you” to an autistic peer isn’t enough. Acceptance is an action and here are some ways to show acceptance:
- Being a lunch buddy and getting to know your autistic classmate.
- Making sure that no one is left out and everyone is invited to play.
- Standing up when you see someone being treated unkindly.
- Dim the lights and turn down the sound if someone is sensory sensitive.
- Understand that everyone communicates even if they can’t talk. Make sure you are listening.
- Appreciate and value how someone else sees the world.
- Asking questions when you don’t understand your friend with autism. It’s ok to ask questions.
- Learning more about autism to understand what the world might feel like to them.
As adults, we must be role models of acceptance, showing kindness, compassion and understanding too!
Download the ‘Acceptance’ episode guide
Watch more Bluebee TeeVee episodes
If you liked this post, you may like:
- Autistic Reflections: What Your Mirror Can’t Teach You
- Why Colin Farrell Believes in the Pledge for Inclusion
The post How to Explain Autism Acceptance to Kids was written by Jodi Murphy and first appeared on Geek Club Books.
