Been reading for a while, joined today to say, no, you’re not the only ones who see it….
My 13 year old daughter is autistic. When she was W’s age the most important thing we could do for her was provide consistency, boundaries, and constant input. She’s properly non verbal, made no attempt to communicate, still doesn’t really, unless it’s howling in my face for hours at a time if we don’t second guess her correctly first time. It is exhausting. I am exhausted. 11 years after her diagnosis my husband and I have had 5 nights away together on our own. That’s our reality of a “level 3” autism diagnosis. At 13 she’s bigger and stronger than me. I can’t handle her on my own any more, lockdown nearly broke me. But I don’t give up and I don’t back down because I’m her mum and that’s my job.
Don’t know what I’m trying to say really, sorry! Those screenshots from Patreon earlier have really got to me. It’s obvious W wants input, and wants to interact, and is trying so hard to communicate. it takes a lot of time, patience and legwork - so much legwork - to raise a ND child. But as with any child you’ll only get out what you put in. Basic PECS and “now/next” boards would ease a lot of his frustration. Who knows how many of her followers who see their children as being like W it would help too.
Drifted over here months ago when a friend told me W might be autistic. I see nothing but support and concern here. Sorry, I rambled!