Autism is a different experience for every parent dealing
with it. Sure, there are similarities, but the spectrum is broad. Our burden as
parents will always vary because of socioeconomics, culture and beliefs. Our
circumstances will be different. Our support systems may not be as solid as the
next parent. But I believe most of us try to do what’s best for our kids.
While I wish more families took time to understand it and
teach their children to be kind to others with differences, I really wish
school districts would take a lead training teachers and encouraging
inclusiveness. I guess what I hope is if teachers stand up for our kids on the spectrum — who often
are teased for being different or excluded because others don’t know how to
deal with their quirky behavior — then others would follow.
I’ve not done extensive research on how much time and
money is spent on autism training at schools. I just know my experience. When
I’ve brought up the idea of additional training or strategies related to my son
with teachers, I’ve mostly gotten resistance via a perceived bad attitude or
the “I know/do that.” Really? I wouldn’t have brought it up, I think. I suppose
they think that I’m challenging their abilities. I just want the best for my
child and others like him. You don’t get change if you don’t ask for it.
I’ve thought maybe I’m taking this too personally. So I’ve
gone on some website to see how others feel about training. The most negative opinions have come
from self-professed teachers. Maybe they’re the vocal exception. I hope! But
many of the teachers who responded to my posts have said they didn’t get into teaching
to deal with special ed kids and that they’re frustrated so many are in regular
classrooms. I find that sad and disturbing. Not every child will be a model
student. And so my wish for training…
