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Friend of someone with Autism

Ivel

I met this guy on the bus and we discovered we had lots in common and I would like think we have become friends. He told me he was diagnosed autistic as a child and although he is a little eccentric, he is really fun to be around and I look forward to the times when we meet up. I am afraid my knowledge of autism is woefully inadequate but is there any 'dos and don'ts' I need to consider as I don't want to do something that loses me what is potentially a very good friend. 

Parents

  • Be yourself. 

    Ask him if he's okay doing certain activities. Treat him as you'd treat any other friend which is being mindful of their feelings. Understand that they will probably upset you, so communicate, explain why a reaction/comment or action wasn't right. You treat him as you'd treat anyone you are friends with.

    He's not your 'autistic' friend, right? He's your friend who happens to have autism. That eccentric nature, is part of what you like about him, right? I can't speak for him and I doubt anybody actually can speak truly on individuals they don't know. But friendship goes both ways - so don't go out of your way to be anything but his friend.In return, he should be doing the exact same thing! He might mess up (everyone does). You might mess up. That is just part of any friendship. 

Reply

  • Be yourself. 

    Ask him if he's okay doing certain activities. Treat him as you'd treat any other friend which is being mindful of their feelings. Understand that they will probably upset you, so communicate, explain why a reaction/comment or action wasn't right. You treat him as you'd treat anyone you are friends with.

    He's not your 'autistic' friend, right? He's your friend who happens to have autism. That eccentric nature, is part of what you like about him, right? I can't speak for him and I doubt anybody actually can speak truly on individuals they don't know. But friendship goes both ways - so don't go out of your way to be anything but his friend.In return, he should be doing the exact same thing! He might mess up (everyone does). You might mess up. That is just part of any friendship. 

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