March 9, 2025
Autistic Children Grow Up Too
No one ever talks about autistic children growing up.
In fact, when I used to worry and wonder about it, I would be almost scolded. Told to take it day by day, hour by hour.
If I could do it over again, the beginning of our autism diagnosis, I wish I could have seen a glimpse of my boy.
Today, he is 14 years old. An eighth grader. Next year he will be a freshman in high school.
He still carries the same diagnosis. Severe, nonverbal autism. Not a lot has changed on paper.
But in real life. Oh, my heart, so much has changed.
He has a cell phone now.
He wants to fly on a plane.
He has two best friends.
He laughs when his brother’s toot.
He loves to ride the four wheeler.
He hates to wake up in the morning.
He’s the happiest person I know.
And today, he fished with our family.
Everything is the same. And yet, everything is different. Autism…what a ride I tell ya.
He is growing up.
Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook.
