The Spectrum

It was so interesting to hear people discuss their experiences in school with classmates that were strange or different. It is fairly likely that we all knew at least one person with autism or aspergers that at the time just seemed weird or different. I don't remember anyone I knew being specifically diagnosed with anything like that until I was well into college so there was no education about it in school and anyone with it must have endured a lot of unexplainable social stigma and perhaps some academic issues too. It is a true sign of progress that we can now identify some of the reasons behind people's differences but there is also a danger in having too many labels being thrown around because it can still be isolating. Children should be educated about people's differences, but it's tough to slam them over the head with too many facts. Books that address the issues seem to me to be a better solution. A well written book like Emma Jean Lazarus Falls Out of a Tree can subtly illustrate differences while simultaneously encouraging acceptance. Reading about realistic situations puts everything into context and easier to understand. Hopefully children's authors will continue to address the endless differences among us as humans to give children perspective on the world's immense diversity. They don't need to be hit over the head, but gentle exposure over time can hopefully contribute to a future society that is more tolerant and accepting.