At ABS Kids, we believe that kindness starts with understanding—and what better time to celebrate that than during World Kindness Month? This year, we’re spotlighting an inspiring story from one of our own and her 9-year-old son, who recently wrote a book about autism.
Jessica’s journey as a parent of two children on the autism spectrum is a testament to the power of compassion, patience, and open communication. Her story offers valuable insights for parents just beginning their journey with autism, as well as encouragement for individuals with autism who may be navigating their own unique paths.
A 9-Year-Old’s Perspective on Autism
When Jessica first read her son’s book, she experienced a mix of emotions. “I was a little sad because of the bullying comment,” she shared. “However, he uses that word pretty liberally. It can be difficult to tell if there is truly a situation or if someone just tells him that his favorite color isn’t their favorite color. By the end, I felt a lot better knowing that he saw the positive side and our conversations had resonated with him.”
His book reflects his growing understanding of autism, not just as a diagnosis but as a part of his and his brother's lives. While they are both apart of the spectrum, they may not fully grasp the concept of the book yet, Jessica and her family continue to have open conversations about autism to foster understanding and connection.
The Power of Sharing Stories
Since sharing his book, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. “He took it to school and showed his teacher, and she loved it!” Jessica said. “I was surprised that there was a request to make a ‘real’ book, and we are looking into that - in a very small way.”
His story has not only resonated with his peers but also sparked meaningful conversations about autism. It’s a reminder that even small acts—like sharing a personal story—can have a big impact.
Advice for Parents: There’s No “Right” Way
For parents of children with autism, Jessica offers this heartfelt advice: “There isn’t a right or wrong way or time to talk to your children about autism. It’s a spectrum, and you have to determine when it’s right for YOUR child.”
Jessica’s journey with both of her sons highlights the importance of tailoring conversations to each child’s unique needs and personality. Understanding his brother’s meltdowns and strong reactions was a key part of their discussions. “He is very intuitive but also can be sensitive, so I wanted to be gentle with him when explaining that he was also autistic,” Jessica explained.
A Message for Individuals with Autism
To individuals with autism who may be reading this: Your voice matters. The decision to write a book about his brothers experiences is a powerful example of how sharing your perspective can inspire understanding and kindness in others. Whether it’s through writing, art, or simply being yourself, your story has the power to make a difference.
Celebrating Kindness Through Understanding
As we celebrate World Kindness Month, let’s remember that kindness often begins with understanding. Jessica and sons story is a beautiful reminder of the importance of open communication, empathy, and celebrating the unique qualities that make each of us who we are.
At ABS Kids, we’re proud to support families on their autism journey and to celebrate the incredible stories that come from our community. Whether you’re a parent just starting this journey or an individual with autism looking for connection, know that you’re not alone—and that your story matters.
About ABS Kids: ABS Kids partners with children and families to deliver high-quality, compassionate applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy at home, in schools, and in our centers. From diagnosis to ongoing treatment, we support children with autism every step of the way. We proudly provide ABA therapy in California, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Utah. Join our team to combine purpose with professional growth.