I Wonder: Thoughts From a Mother With an Autistic Child

I wonder if they realize how hard it is to have a child who cannot have a conversation.

I wonder if they realize it’s even harder to place that child on a bus to be with people you don’t really know.

I wonder if they realize we are counting on them to follow a well-written education plan with not only goals for success but also strategies built in that will help my child feel calm and safe when they are anxious, upset, and out of sorts.

I wonder if they realize that I never dreamed I would have to ask my teenager’s teacher about all their personal habits and behaviors every single day.

I wonder if they realize how hard it is for me to keep asking about it, but that it’s also necessary because my child has medical issues that require me to know.

I wonder if they realize that they could just write a real quick note or email that answers my questions so I don’t have to keep asking.

I wonder if they realize that I have been requesting communication from day one. It’s been done in years past. It’s not that complicated, and it helps everyone on the team.

I wonder if they realize that I am a nice person willing to collaborate and communicate.

I wonder if they realize that if they choose not to communicate or if I find out the IEP isn’t being followed, I know what our rights are, and I will fight hard for my child.

I wonder if they realize that I’d give anything to be able to just have a conversation with my child and not have to beg them to be my connection to their school day.

I wonder if they realize that in the end, this is about learning life skills, maintaining dignity, and having a decent quality of life.

This year, I wonder if they care.

Written by Laura Simzyk of Olivia’s Extraordinary Journey