April is Autism Awareness & Acceptance Month!

We are excited to not just spread awareness of autism, but to help others understand what it is and come to a place of acceptance. Awareness is knowing that somebody has Autism. Acceptance is when you include a person with autism in your activities and make accommodations for them. Not to try to change that person but, support them. 

Autism spectrum disorder is a condition related to brain development that impacts how a person perceives and socializes with others, causing problems in social interaction and communication. The disorder also includes limited and repetitive patterns of behavior. The term "spectrum" in autism spectrum disorder refers to the wide range of symptoms and severity. Autism spectrum disorder includes conditions that were previously considered separate — autism, Asperger's syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder and an unspecified form of pervasive developmental disorder. Some people still use the term "Asperger's syndrome," which is generally thought to be at the mild end of autism spectrum disorder. 1

Maison’s Love for Cooking

I noticed Maison’s interest in cooking when I made our family meals. Maison would run to the kitchen and focus his eyes straight to my hands to see how I chopped, mixed, and stirred. His enthusiasm allowed him to start cooking with me and this has continued for years. Now he’s a pro at chopping vegetables!  Our books will serve as a representation piece for autistic children everywhere, not just Maison. Representation is so important as it helps to fosters confidence and love. 

This project is so significant to me as a mom and an advocate. I want Maison to grow up in a world where he is accepted and understood, and not a world where he is looked at as he’s broken and disgusting. I know that people tend to reject what they don’t understand, but understanding starts when you’re young. If you can think back to your childhood, did anyone teach you about disabled individuals or those who are autistic at all? For most of us that answer is no. How different would the life of our classmates and differently abled peers be today if someone did? I would imagine there would be less bullying for sure. 

This is why it means so much to add a little more positivity into the world and be the change we want to see. 

1 Resources: Mayo Clinic Staff. Autism Spectrum Disorder - Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic, Autism spectrum disorder - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic

He's always so interested in what Mommy's cooking