Do you believe that your child with autism has unlimited potential? If so, your child will be empowered to dream big, try new things, and believe that in the possibility of a full life. If you don't believe this, I encourage you to reconsider.
Your child with autism needs a parent that accepts their diagnosis and believes that they can have a full life. Don't be afraid to challenge your child to be uncomfortable. Life is full of unpredictable people and experiences that will challenge them. Unfortunately, you as the parent, can't shield them from all the craziness this world has to offer.
This is a small thing that I realized about my son recently. I noticed my oldest started wearing sweatpants as his preferred clothing and would not choose to wear jeans. I asked him why he no longer liked wearing jeans and he said they are uncomfortable. Although, of course, I want him to be comfortable, there is power in being uncomfortable. I told him that sweatpants may be comfortable but placing limits on himself is how he narrowed his food to just chicken and noodles. So I asked him if he would be willing to wear jeans at least weekly. He agreed and does wear jeans at least once a week.
Looking back, I recognize that my husband and I assisted narrowing his food choices by giving him only what he wanted. I understand that some people may disagree, but the reality of life is that plenty of us overcome being uncomfortable to achieve personal and professional goals.
When we take the easy road we are unknowingly limiting ourselves. As a parent of a child with a disability, I am teaching my child to challenge himself by being uncomfortable. His life will be more than the limits I allow him to place on himself.
