I want a tutor,โ Layla said. โIt would make doing homework so much easier.โ โMe too,โ said Kaitlyn. โIf Layla gets one, I get one.โ โNo daughter of mine will ever have a tutor,โ Dad said. โWhat if weโre failing a course?โ asked Layla. His graying eyebrows drew together. โIf you fail a single course, young lady, we will pull you out of school and get you a job scrubbing toilets for the rest of your life.
Claire LaZebnikDon't think that there's a different, better child 'hiding' behind the autism. This is your child. Love the child in front of you. Encourage his strengths, celebrate his quirks, and improve his weaknesses, the way you would with any child.
Claire LaZebnikValue people because of who they were deep down, not because of their names or their parentsโ clout.
Claire LaZebnikBut I know how this romantic stuff works: one girl's perfect guy is another girl's reject. And right now I'm glad of it.
Claire LaZebnikSometimes people say that kids with autism aren't capable of love. That's ridiculous. My son loves deeply. He's just doesn't communicate well.
Claire LaZebnikHe only invited me because of you and Chase.' 'Right,' she said, following me inside. 'He's never shown the slightest interest in you before. I mean, he's never stared at you like you're the only person in the room when we're all together. Or sulked around for days because you turned him down for a dance. Or touched the sleeve of your sweater when he thinks no one's looking-' 'He's never done any of that,' I said. Then, less confidently, 'Has he?
Claire LaZebnik