I watched a short video today of a high school graduate with autism giving a speech. While it brought tears to my eyes to see how he had overcome so much to get to where he is, it also gave me a fear I didn't expect.
Samantha is only 4 years old. This gives us an advantage in the sense that a lot of her behaviors are perceived as "just being 4." However, I have to wonder if over time, as she gets older, will her diagnosis become more apparent rather than less. Her speech patterns, social interactions, and eye contact are all improving and at an amazing level for her age. Will that remain the case or will it become more noticeable later on?
I remember the kids in my school that were "different." While we all liked and befriended them, they never did really fit in the way high schoolers strive to do. 15 years later I have to wonder if they were aware of that. How did it make them feel? Will I have to help my daughter through that same thing when she is older?
Well Connie, only time will tell. AND... she is doing so well. What a scary fear to have! All you can do is nurture her and love her and be a huge support for her. The more you help her now while she is little, the better off she will be when she gets older.
ReplyDelete