A Kid’s Guide to Autism Acceptance

They have been friends since 2012 when they met while attending Howell High School, during Lindsay’s freshman year. Since meeting, Lindsay has accompanied Thomas to dances. She’s his biggest fan, cheering him on at his Special Olympics bowling tournaments and his basketball, soccer, and baseball games. Lindsay and Thomas WORDS FROM FRIENDS MEET Q: How did the friendship start?

L:   Our friendship started from the adaptive physical education program at our high school. Thomas and I would spend time together in gym class. Q: What do you like to do together? T:   I like to go to dances, lunch, and walks with my friend Lindsay. Q: What is one thing you wish everyone knew about Thomas? L: I wish everyone knew that his humor is one of a kind! Q: Name your 3 favorite things about Lindsay. T:   My three favorite things about Lindsay is our friendship, her beautiful smile, and how she cares about me. what he is passionate about, especially when we talk about his favorite books and sayings. I want the community to be more accepting of people with autism and their families. Q: How does it make you feel when someone doesn’t treat Thomas nicely? L: It would make me feel extremely sad and anxious. Q: What do you want your community to understand about Thomas and autism? L:   Thomas is a friend like no other! He enjoys sharing

FRIENDSHIP TIPS

Smile and say hello. You may not hear a hello back and that is OK.

Include them, invite them to sit with you at lunch or play a game on the playground.

If you’re not sure, ask a teacher how they communicate.

Find out what they are interested in.

Act like you usually would around a friend - just be yourself!

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