I say this only half jokingly.
One of my favorite cousins in the world coaches me to use the words “so they will be good tax-paying citizens” when I advocate for my boys, whether it be in IEP meetings or community settings. They need appropriate educations so they can grow to be good tax paying citizens, darn it, not people who take money from tax payers to survive!
At first I balked at such language, but when I tried it near some people who had some political pull, I was surprised at how much it got their attention.
I was a parent panelist for a group of early interventionists a while back. When one of the young therapists asked me what my goals were for my children with autism, I said my biggest goal was for them to live to their fullest potential– with jobs, independent living, and lives that they loved. I suppose another way to say that would be responsible, successful, tax payers? The therapist seemed to think it was too lofty of a goal. You wait and see, Mr. Therapist! Haven’t you heard of Temple Grandin? Sheesh!
I read this article about a place that recognizes the gifts of adults with autism. They educate and coach them so that they can get meaningful jobs that they love all while making a good income.I have so much hope. I actually wrote to the head honcho of this organization and gave him three reasons why they should open a campus in my area. (Although I did used to joke with hubby that when I retired I wanted to move to Plano. Divine intervention? LOL.) Read all about it!
Star Local News > Plano Star-courier > News > NonPareil at SMU-in-Plano
Autism From the Lighter Side 
Posted by Sara C on December 26, 2010 at 9:46 pm
I just watched a movie about Temple Grandin starring Claire Danes. Have you seen it? I found it on Netflix.
Posted by ehgivler on December 27, 2010 at 1:44 pm
Yes, I have! Shortly after I watched the movie, and friend and I got to see her live. What an inspiration!
Posted by JoLynn on January 1, 2011 at 12:36 pm
My favorite response when asked what I want for my kids: Believe they can before deciding they can’t.
Posted by ehgivler on January 1, 2011 at 3:22 pm
Great response. I may use that!
Posted by My son’s first job! « Autism From the Lighter Side on January 17, 2011 at 8:11 pm
[…] landmark day: my oldest kid is going to be a member of the workforce, working toward becoming a responsible, successful taxpayer. Take that, Mr. […]
Posted by Yes, I’ll get a breather: autism and employment « Autism From the Lighter Side on February 18, 2011 at 4:05 pm
[…] to have a breather. I wonder if they will be employed and have jobs that they like. (Read more here.) I wonder if they will support themselves someday, be able to live on their own, with […]