143. Social Expectations vs Autism Reality

Society has certain expectations regarding social norms, which
can be challenging for families like ours raising children on the
spectrum. We live in a world that values conformity and often
overlooks individual differences.


Certain unwritten rules govern how we interact, communicate, and
behave in society. For neurotypical children, these norms are
often picked up naturally through observation and imitation.
However, for children on the autism spectrum, the social world
can be puzzling and overwhelming. Boundaries, as they relate to
social norms, refer to the unspoken rules that dictate
appropriate behavior in social interactions. In society, there
are generally accepted norms for personal space, physical touch,
sharing, and conversational topics, among other things.


You don’t stand too close, you don’t pull a chin hair off a woman
behind you in line, and you don’t touch people. 


There are specific topics you know when and where to and not to
talk about. 


Our children on the autism spectrum usually have difficulties
understanding and following these boundaries, which you guessed
it, can lead to misunderstandings and sometimes negative
perceptions from other people.


Societal expectations for social norms can take a toll on
families like ours, affecting us emotionally, mentally, and even
physically.


If you find yourself constantly striving to meet societal norms
it can leave you feeling overwhelmed and anxious, worried that
your child may be excluded or judged for their differences.


You might feel isolated, both from mainstream social circles and
even within the autism community, if your child's challenges are
different than others.


So while the negative impacts of social expectations can be
significant, you can shift your perspective, advocate for
awareness and pave the way for a more inclusive and understanding
world.


It's essential for us to challenge these societal expectations
and advocate for understanding and acceptance.


I believe that together, we can build a more compassionate and
inclusive society.


As parents, we have the privilege and responsibility to shape the
lives of our children.  When you have an unwavering belief
in their abilities, it can be a transformative force that opens
doors, breaks barriers, and unlocks their fullest
potential. 


If you want to learn strategies and tools that you can use to
improve your life along this autism parenting journey, be sure to
get over and get registered for our FREE
Course, Unburdened; Finding Balance Living
Alongside Autism 


⁠www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/freecourse ⁠


It is a self-paced video course that will help you reduce your
stress and overwhelm and show up better every day.





If you want to learn strategies and tools that you can use to
improve your life along this autism parenting journey,
becoming Not Your Average Autism
Mom is your answer.  We are the single best
online resource for moms raising autistic children.  


Is the educational journey overwhelming and confusing for you?
 Our member portal has an array of training and resources
with everything you need to know about Special Education and you
can join LIVE ZOOM calls with an Advocate to get any of your
specific questions answered.  


Maybe you are feeling alone on your journey or maybe you are
looking for other moms to connect with in a PRIVATE community who
understand your day-to-day challenges, be sure that you check out
ALL THE BENEFITS available for you when you
BECOME Not Your Average Autism Mom.


www.notyouraverageautismmom.com 


Additional Resources:


Episode 96. Our Parenting Journey is Different


Episode 74. You Cannot Fix All the Things All the Time