How would you describe your Ausome kiddo?
For me, it would be “Mr. Cocopugs.”
There is a children’s book called SkippyJon Jones about a little mischievous cat who is full of energy, beats to his own drum, sees himself as more than the world sees him, has a vivid imagination, and makes a mess out of everything fighting the “bad guys” (holding the ‘candy’ hostage in his closet).
I immediately think of Jonah.
Sometimes we put individuals in a categorical box as soon as “Autism” is in the mix. Sometimes we get so focused on “Autism” that we don’t see EVERYTHING that makes an individual “who they are.”
Jonah is so vivacious. He’s always smiling. He’s got a keen sense of humor and loves to tease you just to “get your goat.” Sometimes, he will run away giggling to himself and I’ll chase after him yelling, “You come here Mr. Cocopugs!!”
There is so much more there than just “autism.”
Jonah can see the world in a way I never will. He notices the little intricacies and nuances of things I would consider to just be ‘ordinary.’ It fascinates him. He can find beauty in ANYTHING. Water. Sand. A bowl of spaghetti. A bell on a timer. Making a pitcher of Kool Aid…
I see ordinary. He sees so much more.
A masterpiece.