I am my Autistic Son’s Person

I am my seven year old autistic son’s person. I have been since the day he was born. He looks for me in a crowd. He seeks me out in our home. He demands me. He is always touching me. If he is wandering he demands that I am the person that follows behind. If I take a break to relax than he is clinging to me until I get up. And until recently he never developed relationships with other people. He didn’t see the value. People in our lives tried and continue to try to enter his world though.

As my typical four year old has grown up, I’ve also seen how it’s supposed to be. Sawyer recognizes that other people in his life each serve a purpose. For example Grandpa is great for playing baseball. Dad is great for fishing. Mom is great for hugs, kisses, wiping tushes and movie dates. Grandma is great for baking. He has this huge circle of people that he loves and enjoys spending time with.

He’s also starting to develop real friendships. If we go somewhere he is seeking out the kids. He’s not latched onto mom. He’s not isolating himself. My baby is growing up.

Cooper isn’t like that. Everything is mom. Every need. Every want. He demands me. He finds me. He climbs on me.

I am his person. I get him. And he gets me. And yes, I know there is beauty in that. But there is also an incredible pressure that comes with being an autistic person’s lifeline. There is no break.It’s hard to always be touched. It’s hard to always hear the sounds and the feel the flaps.

Take a listen as I explain what it feels like to be an autistic child’s comfort item.

https://youtu.be/R_XAMpPB9D4

Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook and subscribe to our newsletter.