Parents Embrace Kids’ Honesty Over Traditional Manners Amid Debate
UPDATE: A mother’s candid reflections on her children’s behavior have sparked urgent discussions about politeness and neurodiversity. In a recent piece published on Business Insider, the author shared her experiences with her 7-year-old son, Oscar, and 5-year-old daughter, Molly, highlighting the challenges faced by neurodivergent children in social situations.
The moment that triggered this discussion occurred as the family met potential landlords at a rental property in New York. Oscar, who struggles with making eye contact and engaging in small talk, ignored the landlords’ greetings. This prompted the mother to divert attention to Molly, described as the family’s “ambassador” for her outgoing nature.
The mother explained that while Oscar may come off as rude, his behavior is a reflection of his neurodivergence, which includes traits of pragmatic speech disorder and anxiety. “What adults read as ‘basic manners’ can be incredibly difficult for kids like him,” she noted, emphasizing that he often communicates in ways that defy social expectations.
This situation has resonated with many parents facing similar challenges. The mother expressed her frustration over societal pressures to enforce conventional politeness, stating, “I sometimes worry that people who don’t know my child’s diagnoses will assume we didn’t raise him right.”
Despite these concerns, the landlords reacted positively. They recognized that children like Oscar are not inherently disrespectful but are simply honest in ways that may challenge social norms. “They understood. Kids like mine aren’t broken or disrespectful,” the mother remarked.
The article highlights the broader implications of this conversation: the need for acceptance and understanding of diverse communication styles. By sharing her story, the mother aims to foster empathy within society towards neurodivergent individuals and challenge the notion that politeness is the sole indicator of a child’s character.
As discussions around child behavior and neurodiversity continue to evolve, parents are encouraged to embrace their children’s unique traits rather than conform to outdated social expectations. This shift in perspective may pave the way for a more inclusive understanding of what it means to belong in society.
For those interested in the ongoing conversation about parenting, neurodiversity, and social norms, this story is a must-read. It serves as a reminder that honesty and authenticity can be just as valuable as traditional expressions of politeness.
