How to Be Inclusive and Why It Matters

by Tali Benjamin

Isolated. Rejected. Lonely. Helpless. These are some of the feelings parents of children who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders experience on a daily basis. “As a parent, the perception is everybody else is having epic birthday parties, everybody else is playing little league, everybody else is at the Mexican restaurant on Friday night, and you’re missing out,” said Sally Jetmundsen. “Often these scenarios are not what’s really happening, but it can feel that way when you want to be part of something.”

Autism, like other special needs situations, very much impacts the entire family. “Parents of children with autism are at an increased risk of depression. It’s very important for the parents’ mental health to have regular social interactions,” noted Dr. Brandi D. Smith, a Licensed Psychologist with Children’s Autism Assessment Center in Dunwoody. “Being part of the community boosts their own emotional functioning.”

Many autistic

Jetmundsen, the Director of Admissions at Cumberland Academy, is a Peachtree Corners mom of two sons — one who is neurotypical and one who, now 22, was diagnosed with autism at age 7. “Everybody needs a sense of belonging and acceptance no matter what your situation is,” she said. “I don’t think people think about the siblings or parents. I have a younger son, and we had to have hard discussions. Are you going to be embarrassed when friends come over? It can feel hard to find a balance to be loyal to a family member and still just be a kid.”

One common misconception is that people who are autistic are unable or uninterested in connecting with others. In truth, many autistic kids like to socialize. They just do it differently. “For the child, it’s about the fact that they are missing out on social situations their peers would experience,” said Smith. “What comes naturally to neurotypical kids is a learning thing for them.” Jetmundsen agrees, “Kids on the spectrum are funny and clever. They often have interesting skills and talents, so you can embrace that in social situations.”

Being inclusive is also a benefit to you and your neurotypical child. “It benefits everyone to be exposed to all people,” said Smith. “The more experiences we have, the better off we are as people.”

“This year, my child is in an inclusive classroom with several students who are on the spectrum,” said Meghan Johnson of Roswell. “I’ve seen a higher level of patience and understanding develop over the course of the year.” Learning about people with autism and being exposed to them on a regular basis also builds empathy and leadership skills. “If there are kids who naturally want to help others, they can enhance that side of themselves,” said Jetmundsen.

Children are naturally curious and accepting of others, so they can teach us a lot about how to embrace others. “My child has asked a lot of questions this year and it’s given us a platform to discuss kindness and other ways people are different,” said Johnson. “It has reminded me to be more open.”

Independent School for Special Needs Students Grades 6 –