There are many perceptions about autism that need to be re-calibrated, and there has been good progress in terms of autism awareness and understanding.  But in terms of equal rights for children on the spectrum, it’s just a mess. For example, why are children in elementary school arrested for lashing out at teachers and paras who try to restrain them?  Wouldn’t most parents tell their children to fight and run away from their attackers??  But in Missouri, Arkansas and other US states, children as young as 6 or even 11 years old who resist restraint are arrested, often for felonious assault, without a second thought. 

What’s even worse is the way school districts censure so-called typically-developing children who prey on autistic kids.   For example, when three children recently conspired to trap an autistic elementary school student in a bathroom (two boys stood guard while the other boy sexually assaulted the little girl), the school district’s statement was “this is unnatural behavior…and we are considering legal action.”  What?!!!  Rapists, pint-sized or otherwise, are considered for legal action but children who resist painful and frightening restraint are arrested on the spot??!!  What’s wrong with this picture?

And don’t even get me started on services. I’ve had to threaten, cajole and nag to get my son OUT of certain services that he has outgrown, while a dear friend of mine is considering divorcing her loving husband of 25+ years to tap into his 401K plan so that she can have the funds to provide the services that her child needs, but her school district won’t provide. WHAT’S WRONG WITH THIS PICTURE??!!