The Magical Autism Shirt

Gabe is now in an autism support class and doing WONDERFUL!!!  I can't say enough good things about his teacher.  He is reading more, counting like crazy, and doing math!!  I never thought we would get past the behaviors in the class to learn.  She is a true teacher in every way.  That being said....Mrs. Wonderful Teacher sent home an order form for some blue autism awareness shirts.  Of course we ordered some for the entire family :) 

It's a great shirt in more ways then one.  It's cute, it's good quality, it shows our support for autism awareness, and it's MAGICAL.  No I'm not crazy.  It really is magical.  One day Gabe and I were at the store and he was begging for a toy.  Everyone that has children has been in this situation.  It's not fun.  Whining and crying.  It stinks.  Instead of allowing Gabe to buy yet another toy that would sit and collect dust I offered him juice or a lollipop.  He refused both and continued to whine about the toy.  During check out time I once again gave him the option and reminded him once I paid there would be nothing.  Well, it happened....I paid....and the whopper of a meltdown began.  EXCEPT....this time Gabe was wearing the magic blue shirt :)  Normally when my six year old acts like a two year old I get stared at, people offer parenting advice, some tell me he's a spoiled brat (I beg to differ since he didn't get the toy), some snot, and some even point!  Well....magic shirt takes that all away.  Suddenly people are empathetic and caring.   Not one person said a word....they all smiled and nodded in this understanding way.  We left the store....and I felt good.  Gabe of course was still screaming and crying.  But that's to be expected sometimes.  Long live the magic blue shirt!!