Special needs and the older generation?

[Beka]

As a parent of a special needs child do you notice to attitudes of the older generation are less tollerant & more judgemental over your childs behaviour?

Are their reactions noticably negative or have you often faced outspoken members of family/public when your child has acted in a manner people associate as inappropriate for their age?

(guessing this question is more aimed at those parenting a child with aspergers, austism, ADHD etc more so than those with a physical special need)

[Jo]

Since Rai is so obviously different at this point, we don't run into many problems. Sometimes people try talking really loudly to her though as if that is going to help in some way. Of all the problems she does have, hearing issues are not included on the list!LOL

[Kate]

Overall, I can't say I've had any a more noticeably negative reaction from the older generation...in fact, the very worst reaction I got was from a seriously ignorant 30 something, who felt the need to inform me during one of Maia's meltdowns that all she needed was a kick up the backside...in comparison to a sweet little old man telling me how lovely it was to see a patient parent during another meltdown, because he was used to seeing parents smack etc.

To be honest, I thought I was going to have the most problems with my parents, given that despite the fact it's pretty obvious my father has or had ADHD, he thinks that it's all a crock and that it's just bad parenting...until he realised the huge changes in Maia before and after Maia's treatment, and also acknowledged that I was doing a good job with her...and I'm pleased to say that I've never heard him suggest that sentiment ever again.

[Kristina]

I get a lot of stares and side long glances from people when Victoria is being "over excited". I do my best to ignore them and move on. It is the younger generation that gets me. I have kids come to me and ask if I am taking her home yet. That makes me cry.