Let me tell you about my sweet Zacha who happens to have autism. You might notice him at the grocery store or when we're out and about, jumping, squealing and flapping his hands with excitement. It's okay if you stare, it's natural. Sometimes, little kids ask their parents why Zacha is doing that. But don't worry, it's not rude. In fact, it's an opportunity to teach them about stimming and how some children express themselves differently. Stimming is a form of self-stimulation that helps individuals with autism regulate their emotions and sensory input. Some people flap their hands, jump up and down, rock back and forth, or make repetitive noises. It's important to note that not all stimming is harmful or disruptive. In fact, it's often a crucial coping mechanism for those with autism. Unfortunately, many people don't understand stimming or how to interact with individuals who engage in it. That's why I believe it's so important to educate ourselves and our children about this topic. Let's normalize it and not make it awkward. We should strive to educate our children about the beautiful diversity of expression in the world, and how everyone deserves acceptance and understanding. When we see someone like Zacha stimming in public, we should smile and show kindness, rather than staring or making assumptions. I am so grateful for Zacha and the lessons he has taught me. I hope that by sharing our story, we can inspire others to embrace diversity and show kindness to all. ✨💕 #lifewithautism #autism #autismawareness https://www.instagram.com/p/Cpz6HgXheVB/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=
