Children with autism are refreshingly honest.
Their forthright nature makes us laugh.
It can also be very embarrassing.
Let's take a lighthearted look at this charming quality along with 15 tips for social etiquette.
Sensory issues Seated in the waiting room, the woman next to you is wearing a beautiful shirt.
It's red and silky with bits of gold thread.
The receptionist beckons you for a moment.
As you turn back you're horrified to see your son run his hand down the front of her shirt because he wants to feel the silky material.
Social etiquette tip People might have nice things and might wear nice things.
These things might look good to touch but it's important to respect people and keep our hands to ourselves.
Feigning ignorance You've spent the last hour enthusiastically telling your friend how much your son has progressed.
"His comprehension is right on track" you explain.
When your son arrives home with your husband, your friend happily greets him.
I hope school was fun? She says "what's your teacher's name?" It's an easy question for him but much to your distress, your son stares at her and answers "I don't know.
" Social etiquette tip If you don't want to answer a question you can say "I don't want to talk about it" but you shouldn't pretend you don't know the answer.
Halloween Glowing with pride you watch your son walk up to the door and ring the bell.
Within earshot, you're thrilled when the door opens and he says "trick or treat?" Your smile widens as you watch the lady handing him some candy.
Your son looks at the snickers bar distastefully, puts it back into her hands and walks back down the drive, leaving the lady stunned and you aghast.
Social etiquette tip Trick or treating is fun.
Sometimes we get candy we like and sometimes we don't.
This is because people don't know what we like to eat.
If you get candy you don't like, you should say "thank you" and put it in your halloween bag.
Someone in your family might want to eat it later.
Expressing concern As your neighbor enters your house she trips over the step and almost goes flying on the floor.
Your son is standing nearby and thinks it's hilarious.
To your dismay, he bursts into laughter while pointing at your neighbor.
Social etiquette tip You should not laugh if somebody trips or falls.
They might get hurt or need help.
You should ask "are you ok?" Unexpected meetings Strolling through the mall you run in to your son's previous teacher.
"Look who's here.
" You tell your son, "do you remember miss halden?" Seeing the recognition in his eyes and knowing full well that he does, you're dismayed when he looks at her blankly and responds "no.
" Social etiquette tip We often see people in unexpected places.
There's no need to worry because they just want to greet you.
The doctor won't start examining you and your teacher won't start teaching you.
You should smile and say "hi.
"