Brantley flaps his hands, thrusts his tongue, makes squeals and grunts, pulls my hair, eats everything non edible. Things that people expect from babies, but when these behaviors and sounds erupt from an 8 year old people stare.
I get it, they intrigue people. But I notice the stares and I know Brantley notices them too. I always make a point to tell him the stares are because they think he is so handsome, but I worry that the pitying glances and looks of shock tell him otherwise. Because, even if they smile, you can see the questions, pity and shock in their face.
Maybe it’s that they don’t know what to say? Maybe they have never seen an 8 year old act like Brantley? Maybe they are staring because he is so darn handsome? I don’t know for sure but I suspect it is mostly because people are afraid of saying the wrong thing (and a little because he really is so handsome).
If you are afraid of saying the wrong thing, know that most caregivers, myself included, welcome questions and see them as an opportunity to spread awareness.
So ask the questions.
And while you are at it, engage with Brantley. He won’t talk back, but he loves to be talked too and acknowledged just like everyone else. And if all else fails a simple “hey buddy, I hope you’re having a good day” is a great start.
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