'When did you first realise that you were 'different'?'

Even though that was certainly a traumatising incident, I do think any child would have experienced it in the same way. I suspect most children (at least in my primary school) wouldn't have figured it out without help. That teacher was incompetent if you ask me.

Interesting how you connect this specific episode to being autistic and different.

I'd had earlier clues, but this was the big moment for me.  I never really liked being with other kids, and always hated doing group activities.

I'd had earlier clues, but this was the big moment for me.  I never really liked being with other kids, and always hated doing group activities.