Autism in Females: Livia's Story

Hello friends! We finally were able to interview a family with a girl on the autism spectrum. It was a bit unnerving for the mother to be on camera, but she was very gracious in telling us about her daughter's journey. Please be respectful in the comments and here's a link about autism in females:
www.psychologytoday.com/us/bl...
#autism #autismawareness #autistic #autisticgirls

[@emmy6830]

My daughter is almost 7 now and we got her diagnosed at 2.5 years old. She was severely diagnosed. She just screamed non stop and didn’t start talking until 4.5 years old. Now she is the smartest in her class with a lot of friends. Even though she doesn’t care if kids like her or not 😂 This is great information for parents and viewers to learn.

[@reasoning89]

My daughter didnt talk until 3 later she develop few words and now she is reaching towards 4 she started speaking . I m thankful to Almighty

[@svendontgive5615]

This gives me hope for my own Daughter.

[@emmy6830]

Never give up hope! My son is 5 and is lower functioning. Talking kind of and is not potty trained, but we push everyday!! He’s just stubborn , he knows what to do. Just won’t do it. Girls seem to develop and mature faster than boys lol

[@margoobahamad4434]

My daughter is 4.3 years she attained full communication skill at 3.8 years but she started regressing in her speech now she only imitates the sentences and undergo 2 to 3 meltdowns a day can anyone please tell me what will be her prognosis I have got her admitted in playgroup and in therapy

[@andi..9265]

this makes me happy

[@kaylarhodes8697]

Thank you for raising awareness for this. I am a 27 year old woman who was recently diagnosed with autism and ADD. I had known I was different since preschool but I could never figure out why so I hid it. This resulted in depression starting in high school which also went undiagnosed until my 20s.I only figured out I was autistic because I’m dating an autistic man who recognized the traits in me which led me to finally get diagnosed. The diagnosis makes my life finally make sense. I really wish I had known earlier. I hope by raising awareness, other girls and women will get recognized and diagnosed sooner than I did. I thought something was horribly wrong with me but it turns out, I’m just autistic and that’s ok.

[@ariaslegacies341]

As a late diagnosed autistic female, I very much appreciate you for raising awareness on this. Truly, thank you

[@erichakemm8815]

Thank you SO Much for filming this! We need more voices in the autism community regarding girls.

[@siennaprice1351]

I’m an adult female on the spectrum. My school first diagnosed me when I was like 10 or 11. But then when I was 19, I got diagnosed again, but this time by a professional.

[@Marth592]

Same dude! I got diagnosed at 11 but my school took the diagnosis away because apparently I was socializing more. I got diagnosed again in high school at 16. Later on when I think I was 20 I got a diagnosis for depression and generalized anxiety.

[@Jocelyn_Games_And_More7216]

Well well it took almost 2 decades of my life for me to finally have answers for the reasons I behave certain ways like how I’m sensitive to anything that sounds like explosions so fireworks and balloons however I’ve kinda gotten over being too overloaded from fireworks another example is if I lash out at someone on the spot and that person makes it known how much I am so selfish and have no care for how everyone else feels and if it follows by insults targeted towards me I become in a highly low mood because I end up regretting whatever it is I said and don’t know how to make it up to that person especially if I know there’s tension between the person I was in a fight with I tend to keep a distance not only this but I keep putting the blame on myself for my behavior even though I know that with this condition I have it will have affect in my behavior wether it’s expressed in anger/frustration or sadness about stupid things because I used to feel bad easily whenever I couldn’t have exactly what I wanted right here right now like objects I would literally put places in my house to a pigstyle until I had what I wanted and I would search til I had it again almost most times I was unsuccessful with that but I eventually got over it and this is really hard because the things one of my parents said to me really hurt me it’s like as if she doesn’t understand that I still have something different with me yes I am blessed to be able to speak vocally but in the beginning my mom was actually concerned but yet in that fight she was just like“don’t start using being different as an excuse for everything your not different from anyone your just spoiled!!"the relationship I have between her is toxic and she makes me feel like I’m some alien that no one likes and it really makes me feel like I didn’t deserve to fight to live for nearly 20 years now and that maybe it would have been best if everyone just let me go…so I have to ask you is my mom a bad parent since she’s new to learning this about me with real input from a professional and made me feel like I’m not important to this world…??honestly my mom should be looking into this condition and maybe then she would be considerate to me and understand that my behavior isn’t my fault it’s based off how people treat me and the environment or situation at hand

[@siennaprice1351]

@@Jocelyn_Games_And_More7216 I’ve had people do this to me because of my physical disability. I’m always exploring things and touching things around me to know what they are. Or I’m constantly bumping into things, which makes me so mad, or knocking things over. I’ve had people tell me that I won’t be able to have a job if I’m constantly touching everything, but this is how I get to know my environment. I’ve had people tell me that I’m spoiled just because I have to have help finding certain things because I don’t know where they are. People have even told me that I’m just using my physical handicap as an excuse for certain behaviors. I also get mad if I can’t find something, and my brain automatically goes to,, it’s gone, or somebody stole it, or it’s lost and it won’t show up again. I also have a hard time reading facial expressions, but reading it in texts can be a bit harder, because I’m not sure if someone is being mean to me or not, so I jump to conclusions before thinking at times. People have even told me that I was just saying that I have a physical handicap for attention, but I do have it. No, your mom just needs to be educated more, like a lot of people in this world. People need to be more educated not just on mental health, but physical handicaps also.

[@siennaprice1351]

@@Jocelyn_Games_And_More7216 that’s why I’m afraid to share publicly in comments what my physical disability even is, just because it’s exhausting to have to deal with bullies who don’t care to be educated on my physical disability, and just enjoy making assumptions. However, I have said it in a few of my KZbin videos, and maybe people can tell that I have it.

[@Jocelyn_Games_And_More7216]

@@siennaprice1351 well like you I am also on the spectrum even though I can speak for myself but you’re right people always like to have bad ideas for why anyone with a disability or incapacity of things behave negatively or have a temper and stuff like this and then anyone like us get judged like“stop making excuses and say things like it’s because I’m different from everyone else"well excuse me but I will not tolerate being told this stuff ok like just because I can’t handle being near balloons without having a sensory overload doesn’t mean“I’m broken or I’m not normal and that I should just grow up and get out of this sensitivity phase"well excuse me I’m still verbal and also if I’m saying there’s no way I can get over this phobia means I never will don’t force me into getting over it this is a process that can take years I hate when I feel like people want to degrade me and make me feel like I never belonged in this world because I almost lost my life the moment when it was supposed to happen…I’m so thankful I have this life I do and I’m hoping that if a viral infection pops up that I don’t get it because the next time it happens my body might not have the strength to fight it off like with omnicron varient of covid…what if that happens and I’m a risk to lose my life again??I am very aware of the next crisis monkeypox and I’m scared if I get it my life could be at risk…

[@crustyegg]

My sister is 8 years old and when she was a toddler she had trouble with speech, and used to line her toys up and whenever she’s at school (she really hates maths class) when she does maths she gets very fidgety and stresses out, so her teachers have asked us to do some research about wether she could be on the spectrum, so this video really helped me and my mum

[@LauraAnderson2009]

Happy to hear that this video helped ☺️

[@belgicaelenarubio-valenzue5410]

I am from Mexico, they give me a lot of information, your videos, I have a son within the spectrum. I don't speak English but I try to understand. Thanks don't stop sharing videos.

[@bethiaprosser1189]

Just want to say thank you very much for this. I'm an autistic female too (a lot older though), and it was very nice to relate to someone so well. I'm also very glad the girl was diagnosed so early on, it can make all the difference. But yeah, thanks.

[@leileyking1544]

this is such a great video. autism in females presents itself so different than males. i wish pediatricians and therapists knew this. the rate we are undiagnosed or misdiagnosed is absolutely heartbreaking. i didn’t get my diagnosis until my 18th birthday. i went through the five stages of grief due to this. it sucked. i wish i was accommodated sooner. she really hit the nail on the head when it comes to masking and feeling so different from everyone else, yet trying so hard to fit in regardless. it’s EXHAUSTING. she is so well spoken. she put my experience into the perfect words.

[@Marth592]

Hey I just wanted to say I’m a girl and I wasn’t diagnosed until16. What you’re saying is sooo true. I’ve done my research and in both that and my personal experience, boys tend to be more outspoken or disruptive in the classroom when it comes to autism. As for myself, I believe that my mom said I had a speech delay (idk for how long. Probably 3-4 years old). I never had many meltdowns as a child, but if I did, it was probably at home and not in public. I was also very introverted to the point that I never really had any interest in interacting with other children my age. I also had sensory issues with clothes that I couldn’t explain to my parents. I’ve seen people in the autism community act as if us girls somehow have it easier because when can mask, and to that I say no it isn’t easier. I think we just tend to be more likely to try to copy others behaviors, even though it doesn’t work like 90% time.

[@BeatlesPlotagonShow]

Thank you for making this video! I too am a female on the autism spectrum, and I was also diagnosed at two since a case worker who was working with my brother (he’s also autistic) saw I was showing signs of autism. We really do need to break the stigma of comparing when girls display signs than when boys display signs, and yeah, you’re your child’s best advocate. I hope to see more videos soon!

[@vprovenzale]

Hi, sometimes I wish I was in my daughter's head to understand what she is going through. What can I do to make things better for her? she is 3

[@haannguyen4402]

I am a girl with autism, and I’ve been told “Wow, I would never have guessed you have it”. The funny thing is, I don’t have a lot of the sensory issues. Is it because I’m female

[@haannguyen4402]

That’s why I kept my IEP a secret until Middle school

[@eramnoman511]

Can I ask you something?

[@BeatlesPlotagonShow]

@@eramnoman511 what’s up?

[@mikaso]

Thank you for this, and all videos. You are the sweetest family ever!

[@Whatbabe]

This is so important 💜 thank you for talking about this!

[@tiffanyheilman6119]

THANK YOU FOR SHARING! This was my first time hearing from a mother of a daughter with autism. The specific examples felt like she was describing my 9yr old daughter to a T. It's very validating to know my kid isn't alone and I should keep pushing for a 2nd opinion for DX.

[@Marth592]

She put my whole life in an entire video… very well spoken!

[@jeannine1739]

You are so brave, facing a camera and stage fright to help those needing info. May God bless you and your family richly! :)

[@wilM26]

This was me! I've had an incredibly difficult life with lots of trauma. That is the past now, I'm now working to heal it 💖

[@starrynight8455]

Thank you for this informative video. My daughter (who is currently 2 years old) was diagnosed with ASD at 17 months old. I knew from infancy something wasn’t quite right but couldn’t figure out what exactly. I’m so greatful to have her a part of my life. Her autism enhances her in so many ways, from her phonemonal memory to her being being able to notice intricate details from such a young age. Yes it’s a daily struggle and not an easy journey but she is no less than a neurotypical person and we will do all that we can to give her the best life possible. My best wishes to all of your children. You all are doing a phenomenal job!

[@user-eg8ht4im6x]

Thank you so much for this video, both Mum and daughter did very well. And great explanations. I’m a 60 year old very late diagnosed 4 years ago now, so wish it had been picked up when I was young. It really has helped knowing why I’m so different and never fitted in to the ‘norm’ wish the. And your family well

[@mistiisham6659]

I love the part where she says: You are your child's BEST advocate!

[@cunt8483]

i didnt get diagnosed with adhd and autism until i was 17. having both at once throughout my whole childhood without a diagnosis or the help and support i needed was extremely difficult. i hope people become more aware of the signs of autism in girls so that they can get the support they need as early as boys do.

[@hmmhmmm6869]

I'm 17 and I'm relating to a lot of adhd and autism traits, I would like to know how was it for you, how did you get the diagnosis of both? I'm currently seeing a doctor and they're checking me out but I don't know how it's gonna be

[@deedeewass3047]

Thank you so much for this video! I have a son and daughter on the spectrum. My son was diagnosed at 2 years and my daughter was 12 years old when she got diagnosed. My son had early intervention programs and my daughter was just automatically included in them and she was 1 years old when we started with my son. My daughter already had a good start being included in my son's therapies so it wasn't until puberty that we started to notice there was a possibility of autism with her. I am also starting my own path to being diagnosed with autism as my daughter is struggling with the exact same situations I had at her age, and I am still struggling with them today as an adult.

[@menotyou6932]

Thanks for uploading this. My mom doesn't believe I'm autistic even after my diagnosis, hopefully this helps her understand.

[@Mrgamer-wm3dm]

when my mum knows what autism is fully I think she wont believe me

[@menotyou6932]

@@Mrgamer-wm3dm I'm having a difficult time trying to convince her. She says the diagnosis is wrong.

[@tiffanyheilman6119]

Sorry to hear that :/ please know even if your mom never fully understands your dx is still valid and you're not alone ♡

[@menotyou6932]

@@tiffanyheilman6119 Thank you

[@midnightwriter79]

Thanks for this. I don’t have a daughter, but I found this woman very relatable. Especially in terms of how she and her husband responded to the possibility of autism in their child. My husband already had several family members with various special needs, including autism, so we already understood that it’s not a death sentence, just a hurdle. We were open to the possibility pretty early on when my son was 18 mos old, showing signs, and had no words. It’s strange how many people will rush to tell you you’re being ridiculous when you’re concerned with your child’s development. They seem to think that reassuring you that you’re overreacting is an act of comfort. It’s really not. I’m more at ease now that family and friends acknowledge and accept his needs and celebrate his accomplishments with us.

[@marjanvermeulen9753]

Hi family! Thanks for the nice video. It's good to tell something about girls/women on the autism spectrum. I was diagnosed with autisme at the age of 44 years. And a autism diagnose is not the end of the world, but a begin of a great journey. A big hug from the Netherlands! 🇳🇱😃❤🇺🇲

[@gerileemakes]

Laura and Livia, you did a great job sharing your experiences and your message.

[@LauraAnderson2009]

Thank you so much!

[@orlandofontanez]

LOVE AND RESPECT YOUR FAMILY AND HOW BIG IS YOUR LOVE TO HELP OTHERS! YOU REALLY CAME IN THIS EARTH TO HELP HUMAN KIND! SEVERE RESPECT ON YOU!

[@elenadelawder6913]

Great speech! Have a Merry Christmas Rob & Brittany & boys 🎄🎁😁🎊

[@jackiemederos3138]

One statement that the mother said is a guiding light for any parent that might be suspecting their child might have a diagnosis. If something inside is telling you there is something with your child, do not give up or dismiss it. Keep consulting, ask for your child to have a full developmental evaluation. Please do not stop with your pediatrician, if you feel there is something, keep going until you get to the bottom of it. I have seeing many parents that were criticized, dismissed as over worrying or just plain annoying because they kept asking for help. When it comes to your child, do not give up, ask your pediatrician to refer your child to a professional that can provide you with an accurate diagnosis.

[@ksedivec]

I kept waiting for the part of the story where mom finally got her diagnosis after meeting with specialists for her daughter, ESPECIALLY after dropping all that knowledge about girls masking. When she said the only relatives with an autism diagnosis were on her husband’s side, I was like “Oh, I guess she means because pursuing an official diagnosis as an adult woman is an expensive, almost always out-of-pocket venture, usually for self-discovery & validation rather than to unlock tangible support services? or…. is it possible that nobody has ever suggested to her that she might be autistic?” Hope that didn’t come off too snarky. I’m #ActuallyAutistic & while I usually mask well, I have similarly fragmented speech patterns & shifty eyes when nervous/on camera.

[@CorkysFlora]

I agree.

[@LauraAnderson2009]

I actually have ADHD, and my behavior on camera was the result of recording in the evening when my meds were wearing off. I was also mainly looking at Rob and not the camera, which explains my shifting eyes. :)

[@janettidwell6544]

Thank you! So appreciate you sharing.

[@keepagudz8756]

Thank you so much for this video. Appreciate much.

[@teresakow423]

Be strong and courageous. Thanks for your advise and truly it is not the end of the world.

[@maiyapercy]

Hi, I am a 47 year old female and I got diagnosed four months ago. I appreciate that you made this video, because women often get diagnosed very late in life. I was masking for 47 years, and I am so tired. Still learning so much about myself. Thank you 💕

[@raven2742]

As an 18 year old female currently in the process of getting a autism diagnosis i appreciate this video and the parts about masking really hit me because I have realised I unconditionally started masking at a young age and even now I don’t think I will ever be able to stop masking either… masking comes so naturally and it’s so exhausting. I even heavily mask around my own family and friends..

[@mariajoseheredia3959]

Wonderful information. God bless her family. She explained it wonderfly.

[@amybe3]

I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety as a teenager too. Thank you for the video.

[@littlejonathorn6860]

Educational Video. Thank you for sharing. Important for our community to know. Appreciate your transparency and going deep Laura. Happy New Year/Merry Christmas🎄🎁and Hap Holidays to Autism Family and Laura/Livia’s Family and everyone out there in the world.

[@LauraAnderson2009]

Thank you so much! Merry Christmas to you too!

[@bonniefriesen8648]

Thank you for sharing this. My granddaughter who will be going into kindergarten this fall is in OT right now for what we thought was ADHD and just found out that they want to assess her for autism. My daughter knew at the age of 2 that there was something going on but her Family dr said she was to young and didn’t even want to talk about it. So when Ellie turned 4 my daughter pursued it further, as more behaviour became apparent and I’m so glad she pushed. We trust that God has a plan for her life (Jeremiah 29:11) and she will always be our beautiful precocious granddaughter, whether she is on the spectrum or has adhd. Lots to learn but we want to be the best support we can be. We live in Canada.

[@irispr4812]

Wow, how i´d love to have a community like yours, thank you for sharing

[@4mydearlady]

Thank you so much for sharing this important information! I found myself nodding throughout the video about the masking and late diagnosis. My daughter was recently diagnosed with autism at 15. She was also diagnosed with anxiety and depression. Beforehand, she was only assessed with a learning disability in school. She also needed speech services. It was only when I took her to a children’s crisis center for her depression did the psychiatrist on site ask if she had ever been assessed with autism. I was surprised. Afterwards, my daughter was formally diagnosed. I’m surprised my child’s school staff didn’t pick it up all these years. I didn’t have experience with autism. I thought she had ADHD (she doesn’t) or SPD (wrong again). My daughter is currently seeing a therapist and taking medication. Mental health services have been our lifeline! I believe autistic children need more than an IEP. We parents can’t do as much for them as they get older. As your child ages, institutions start telling parents to intervene less. At 18, you have to ask your child if it’s okay to speak on their behalf. My eldest daughter is 19, assessed with dyslexia and ADHD. Universities, places of employment, doctors want to hear from her as an advocate, less from parents. I know it will be the same for my autistic youngest daughter.

[@justsomerandominternetuser6379]

I’m autistic and female (24) and I appreciate this video. Your neighbor is very wise! Her precious girl is adorable and beautiful! I love your family too @AutismFamily! I’d love to see more from your neighbor if she and her little one are ok with it. God Bless you all!

[@LauraAnderson2009]

Thank you so much!

[@elizabethmeldrum4059]

im autistic and female 24 and appreciate this vbeo your neighbor is very wise her preciousn girl is adrable and beautifu i love your family too @ autism family ld see more your neighbor if she and her little one are ok with it god bi

[@LauraAnderson2009]

@@elizabethmeldrum4059 I won't rule out the possibility :)

[@RobbieBaldphotography2]

She is adorable and Ian is still my favourite boy of the family maybe it’s just that I grew up watching him when this channel first started

[@games_bond7221]

Everybody says I never was like this... Meaning I never looked autistic. I simply masked my whole life. Nobody ever noticed something was wrong.

[@ariajane8695]

Thank you for the video. I am a female on the spectrum (mildly). Alistair, you're so cute and funny 😍

[@Java-D]

This is a great video. Something I’d like to add is that there are also many boys flying under the professionals autism radar because they mask and fit in just like girls do. My son is one of them and has a couple of friends just like this also! They talked early, have huge vocabularies, like to run and play and be wild, etc. They present on the surface as just having severe adhd. But the underlying social issues, sensory needs, rigidness and other things discussed here are very much present. My son stims a lot but it isn’t noticeable to others like some kids’ are. He hated breastfeeding, struggled to transition to eating purée or solids, hates most shoes and clothes, etc. He likes to collect a lot of things but doesn’t necessarily use them or play with them. He changes every conversation to the topic of his choice. He struggles to keep friends because they quickly outgrow the things he’s in to. He has a major fight flight or freeze reaction. He struggles with big emotions. There are so many underlying traits that aren’t seen to most people who don’t really know him.

[@leaf2309]

that moment where this mum says we > then very quickly says 'girls on the autistic spectrum' ♡♡ so much love for older generations who were missed in self discovery

[@OhEverdeen]

very well said, mom. what a great advocate for her daughter.

[@LauraAnderson2009]

Thank you so much!

[@joqjoqs_world]

This will help others for autism awareness. thank u for sharing. Watching here from Philippines. Merry Christmas and a happy new year.

[@MikeLozanoGuitar]

Thank you for sharing.

[@sheagoff6009]

I’m a 21 year old female on the spectrum. I wasn’t diagnosed until I was almost 20. I’m honestly so glad that I was diagnosed because now I know why I behave certain ways and why I do certain things. For years I thought I was a terrible person, but I’m not. My brain is just wired differently. Yeah it would’ve been great to have gotten the diagnosis when I was younger but I’m glad I know now.

[@kyraamethyst2005]

I can relate 100%, except I'm 25 and just got diagnosed last week! We are not failed neurotypicals, we are perfectly "normal" autistic people!

[@PharaohYami2]

As a female I believe I'm on the spectrum haven't been diagnosed but at the start of forth grade was diagnosed with a learning disorder and gone to speach tarspy. But even as a 40 year old I truly think I'm on the spectrum when my mom told me as a child I would just always walked on my knees for a long while and no doctor could explain it.

[@wabbahabba]

Livia seems like a sweetheart!

[@LauraAnderson2009]

She is, but I'm biased because I'm her mom...lol

[@user-zj6yh7oc2p]

​@@LauraAnderson2009 could you please tell me when did she start saying words to communicate? My daughter is 2 who has words but she doesn't communicate yet. She doesn't point to things.

[@florejeune2542]

These video give me so much hope my son was showing some symptoms we are very worried about him…I feel so depressed every day watching my baby going through some people miss understand him sometimes keep asking if he’s hyper….pray for us guys🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@staceyruwoldt9158]

Hi there I too am Autistic I am in my late 20's ☺♡♡ Being an Autistic female is certainly interesting as though my parents fully believe me and also in, how I have an diagnosis of an learning- delay seperately, when I asked if anybody in school would've picked up anything.. In my body language and such during high school

[@Jitmommy33]

Aha! This is one I needed to watch.

[@breannebellezza9755]

Hello again. Like I told you guys before I am a high-functioning autistic. I was diagnosed at 10 1/2 years old at the end of 4th grade. I am 35 years old now and a college graduate and successful career woman. I am very confident for Livia, Ian, Connor, and Alastir. It is very hard to diagnose girls because of similarities between neurotypical girls and autistic girls.

[@smelly4498]

i’m not at all trying to be rude, but it can be considered offensive to use “functioning labels” for autism. there’s a long history of the phrase that i won’t get into, but even now it can be used to differentiate between “good” and “bad” autistics. a lot of people prefer the term “low support needs” because every individual is different and has different support needs whether they are considered “high” or “low” functioning. again, these terms are so common they’re still used in doctors offices, but a lot of people want them done away with /nm

[@nancypenner4179]

I always believed ours were also born with autism. Nice to hear l am not the only 1 believing that. You said it can be hard ( agreed) but aren't they just such a blessing at the same time? We have a boy 19y and a girl 17y almost 18. God bless you!

[@LauraAnderson2009]

Laura here (the mom in the video) Absolutely she is a blessing. We cannot imagine our family without her.

[@elisab8582]

Our daughter is 14 now and was diagnosed at 5. It was hard to find anyone to diagnose her. We do have different challenges, especially as they get older. Talking to others does help and i learn so much from others about my own child. It truly takes a village. My biggest fear is what happens when my husband and I are no longer here for her care. Who will be there for her? The rest we can work out in some way. You are lucky we can't get our daughter to eat anything, she eats 5 things total. I try every day and I enjoy trying new things and one day she will eat something new. she has eaten the same 5 things for 13 years. I feared lady time when she was youner and that was not the horror fest I feared it would be. If we can get thru that we can do anything autism throws at us.

[@spacebeanstudios7979]

Your kids are so adorable !! So is Livia :)

[@LauraAnderson2009]

Thank you! She keeps us on our toes 😁

[@spacebeanstudios7979]

@@LauraAnderson2009 He he I bet ! Lol

[@kingeldridgeroyal9722]

Thanks for this video. I was diagnosed with autism when I was 3. I been on the spectrum every since. I'm mildly autistic now. She's soooo cute and adorable. It's so cool we have something special in common. I love Ice cream too.😀🤗🥰💗 #Autism4Life💙

[@LauraAnderson2009]

Thank you for your kind words. She is a darling, but as her mother, I am incredibly biased.

[@kingeldridgeroyal9722]

@@LauraAnderson2009 Yes she's so sweet. You're welcome😀🥰💙

[@lilyfaith6932]

She’s so cute. Love how she just got comfy and snoozed for the interview lol 😴 girl me too

[@LauraAnderson2009]

Thank you--she's a sweetheart. We recorded the video in the evening and it was getting close to her bedtime. She went to bed after we finished

[@diaramiller2108]

Awwww…she is so adorable 😊

[@LauraAnderson2009]

Yes, yes she is. We are, however, incredibly biased

[@khaledgorila]

very useful video and amazing video

[@Newlolz989]

She did great! Everyone did great!

[@LauraAnderson2009]

Thank you ❤️

[@rosewaters9991]

I was constantly creating scenes with my dolls. I was also very particular as to how games were played. I became very adept at masking.

[@phantomvampyressshadowkiss4690]

My 3 yr old daughter goes for ados screening this Sept. Her speech therapist also thinks she is high functioning. But they can't diagnose her . Thank you for sharing your daughter's story. My daughter doesn't speak in sentences or string words together. Certain songs like old Mcdonald make her cry. She doesn't play with toys correctly and she lines up her toys but only Certain things like her ducks. She does pretend play but it's definitely different.

[@user-yd1mz4on1k]

That’s me! I’m a woman ( not diagnosed with autism or even seen anyone for this) but I feel so different but I’m aware enough to where I mask it when I’m in public. Like my stimming and quirks , behaviors etc

[@Reidy1902]

Livia is adorable. I have 3 ASD kiddies 2 boys and 1 girl and fighting for my little girls diagnosis everyone has different opinions on her cos she’s ‘sociable’ and never shuts up haha. But if they listen she’s repeating over and over and she’s sociable with adults not children.

[@andi..9265]

just like my daughter, she loves adults. Are your boys also presenting in a similar way? I am so curious about siblings as I have an only child

[@litkate]

Great video thx for making it, does Olivia mom have Autism to? I noticed a couple of things in the video. its great Olivia was able to get diagnoised earlier for me I was 27 this year when I got diagnoised

[@LauraAnderson2009]

Hi! I am not autistic. I'm just not used to being on camera. I do have ADHD, and we recorded in the evening when my meds were probably wearing off and I had had a long day 🙂

[@litkate]

@@LauraAnderson2009 your non autistic oh ok, u have adhd im waiting to be assesed for adhd at the moment which I defo have on top of my autism. Great video laura 🙂

[@MuzicOutlet]

I thought the same too!

[@whitneygray2706]

@@LauraAnderson2009 thank you for sharing your story and being so genuine

[@nataliegist2014]

Thank you

[@lyndavanroo5226]

I was diagnosed with autism at 13 and now I am 17 so understand what people are going through that have autism.

[@NickyJohnK219]

How are you guys been merry Christmas happy new year happy holidays may God bless you and keep you❤️💙

[@vprovenzale]

Thank you, this video is very helpful. Did your daughter have other difficulties when she was younger? My daughter tries to hit her little sister when she gets upset and her preschool class mates and not sure if it is because she is not able to communicate Omy I can totally relate my family member are the same way. I really hope to see more videos

[@LauraAnderson2009]

I just now saw this, so forgive my late reply. Livia did have a hitting problem when she was 2-3. It was usually when she was overstimulated and unable to effectively communicate. It was not an easy time. Speech therapy and teaching her ASL helped A LOT. She almost never hits now.

[@Aleksandra.DaGreat]

Wonderful ❤️

[@alexapaton4985]

I’m a 25 year old female on the autistic spectrum. I was diagnosed when I was 21 years old. When I was 4 doctors said I was most likely autistic but they didn’t want to diagnose me even though it was pretty obvious that I was on the autistic spectrum.

[@retrostar223]

Thank you for your videos ❤️ How did you help alscar to improve his eye contact and speaking?

[@AutismFamilyChannel]

School, speech therapy and patience 😉

[@DeborahAnnsuperversatile]

Thank you very much. My girl is 4 and she has a lot of signs. No one really believes me. She also already knows how to mask some, and has quite a bit of anxiety related stuff at times. I have anxiety, ADHD signs and ASD signs but no one believes me. I am 28. And I want to get diagnosed for myself. I had more obvious signs when I was younger, my parents just don't believe in it being anything to get diagnosed with. I want to get my daughter diagnosed because I believe it will be important for her life, especially school.

[@Sarablueunicorn]

Sorry about my question, I'm not from USA. But what does she get from getting an autism diagnosis? How does it help her in school? Does she have access to special needs education? I don't understand the need of getting a diagnosis that appears listed as a "mental illness" when it can actually be neurological. If a child is struggling in school or social life they should get help no matter what, kids shouldn't need an illness diagnosis such as autism (unless it's obvious and causing serious impairment), adhd, now kids are even diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar.

[@DeborahAnnsuperversatile]

@@Sarablueunicorn autism and ADHD are neurological. I am not keen on diagnosis, so to speak, either, but I for sure want her to get any help that she needs.

[@LauraAnderson2009]

@@Sarablueunicorn It's all about documentation. In a perfect world, yes, a child struggling in school would get all the help without a label. Unfortunately, schools in the United States are overcrowded and understaffed, so you have to prove that there is a need. Some school districts are more helpful than others. Livia has never actually been medically diagnosed, but the school district provided assessments which qualified her for autism services.

[@fitzguineavision]

My friends two daughters are both autistic. The eldest daughter was diagnosed as moderate to severe on the spectrum. She is audible but doesn't always speak clearly, she has limited muscle movement or strength in her arms. But for the most part can function just fine . She does have major hearing sensitivities though. Now the youngest daughter was diagnosed as moderate to less than moderate on the spectrum, but she's the one with majority of the behaviour issues. She has lots of aggression, hits other people often out of the blue. She can speak clearly, but has difficulty expressing what is going on through her mind. She doesn't respond well when spoken to, she avoids eye contact a lot. She has particular phrases that she repeats over and over like a broken record. She is a challenge most days for my friend and her support network. Even with individual behavioural help , she still has lots of issues. She used to take her toys and line them up on the stairs in a particular order, but hasn't done that in a while. But they're always on technology. So what I'm wondering is does anyone else have similar experiences to this, and if so how can I help my friend with being able to control her daughter/s.. The youngest daughter also has lots of issues with eloping (running out of the house).

[@moisesschini6620]

Great video!

[@sammypearch4005]

Thanks to Laura and Olivia and Autism Family for the video. We have a girl on the spectrum who was diagnosed at nearly 4.

[@LauraAnderson2009]

It's actually Livia, but I know autocorrect likes to change it to Olivia :)

[@SapphirasMama]

I was diagnosed at 27 with autism. Reason for such a late diagnosis was that I lost my father at such a young age and so everyone thought my signs were due to me to losing my father. I am obsessed with animals, some craft and cemeteries. I used to chew and suck on my hair or clothing. I used to flap and jusmp when I was excited. But I got told to stop those (hair and clothing sucking and flapping) and so I did, well more bullied to stop. I used to be really gullible (less so now), I can't take starring at someone for hours on end, certain sensory stimuli can set me off, I am great with theory work but I struggle with practical, I needed to have speech therapy cause I made up my own languageand I also used to run away

[@hazelgrunts]

I started masking at around 7 years old, after I realized that people didn’t like that I hand flapped and did other “weird things.” Still showed subtle signs, but didn’t get diagnosed until 12 years old.

[@pattystapley2322]

I had a later diagnosed and I acted out in school alot and got in lots of trouble and suspended alot because they didint understand my meltdowns and out bursting and called lazy alot ! They diagnosed me first with adhd and a learning delay and later out added autism.. a vary hard time in my life tell we new!

[@AutismFamilyChannel]

I can imagine, for sure.

[@IzzyS94]

I am a female adult on the spectrum. I was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome at the age of 14.

[@Averns]

What's been hard for me as an afab teen with autism and other disorders, is that it can be really hard for me to express or even analyze what part of my identity is causing my reaction to a specific stimulus.

[@heikehollas4109]

Love from Germany ❤️🌹🎀⛱️🤣

[@Ultima770]

My daughter is on the spektrum and I'm still learning what's right. I don't want to do anything harmful to her. Like her non eye contact, fear of loud things like hand dryers, etc. So I've learned to adapt per say. Like when we play, it will often be scripting scenes from movies.... Over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over. I'm still trying to figure out how I can help her deal with her melt downs and spot her over stimulation, because that leads to anger and sometimes she will hit me and mom (my wife of course).

[@andi..9265]

keep playing with her.. you are doing a wonderful job.. sometimes I would rather put a pillow over my head then play good guys bad guys with my daughter..but by becoming her best friend...she has learnt to be more flexible. She will sometimes play a game I want to play (just so we can go back to playing good guys bad guys but its still a small step)

[@spacebeanstudios7979]

My friend Anessa is ftm transgender like me and is Autistic for sure and he's fighting for a diagnosis, he is in his early twenties.

[@pylyo]

Mommy looks on the spectrum as well. What a lovely girl she has. :)

[@user-yd1mz4on1k]

What makes you say that? I’m not arguing with you or anything, I’m just wondering how you can tell?

[@Savayacat1962]

I have that same shirt as Livaia❤

[@katijoaltman9742]

I HAVE AUTISM TOO AND I LOVE HAVING AUTISM AND ADHD TOO!!🙂🙃🙂🙃🙂🙃

[@abearizal]

Hai brother, autism disorder is not alone.. As I here giving motivation to all families has autism children.

[@leddred2078]

The mom is on the spectrum and probably did not know it. I misspoke there is still a debate on whether adhd is under autism spectrum my spouse has both

[@LauraAnderson2009]

Hi there! I'm the mom in this video and I am not autistic. I do have ADHD, however. I can see why you think that though, but the awkwardness you're seeing is because I'm not super comfortable on camera. Also, we recorded this in the evening and I was a little tired :)

[@leddred2078]

@@LauraAnderson2009 hi I have a family on the spectrum as well adhd is considered on the autism spectrum disorder too we have both in our family as well

[@LauraAnderson2009]

@@leddred2078 ADHD by itself is *not* on the autistic spectrum. While there are a few similarities, they are separate diagnoses. It is, however, possible for someone to be both autistic and have ADHD.

[@helleanakestel4448]

@@LauraAnderson2009 Thank you for making this video ❤️. My daughter who is now 22, was 11 before she was diagnosed ASD. Mostly because she spoke so well. Even had one doctor say she couldn’t be autistic because her vocabulary was so advanced. The lining up of toys without any imaginative play was the first real sign. And she will still place items where they should be on the shelf in a store today.

[@sugarapsa]

@@leddred2078 adhd is not on the autism spectrum. for the most part, overlaps in the traits result from people having both or having similar traits with different causes

[@vickymoore789]

My almost 4 year old daughter is currently going through her diagnosis, her autism traits are very obvious, she isn't potty trained at the moment and is showing resistance to us introducing it to her, she sings and says some words but they are robotic and have generally come from videos or cartoons she's watched. She also hits her head and now her arms and legs which is awful for us to have to watch and knowing that whatever we try to do it doesn't usually help. Also she does hit out towards me and her dad too. She also used to walk holding my hand but then got sick and wouldonly go in a buggy but not she only wants to be carried. It's so hard at the moment, and it often feels like our family don't understand. Has anyone else been through this, and will things improve?

[@julianetexas]

So sorry to hear the journey has been so hard for you Vicky. My daughter was diagnosed a few months ago at age 3. It has been difficult for us as well, specially her meltdowns and social interactions. She never tried to hit us but constantly hits her brother from nowhere. It is hard to watch and realize that most of our actions to help her does not help much - if not at all. Honestly I don’t have an answer for your question. It may improve with time though, she may learn how to mask some of it, but I try not to think too much about it to not get frustrated down the road.

[@Cutesiecaiboii]

I'm a transgender man who was born female. She described my life story to a T, I wasn't diagnosed until last year and I'm 19. My parents couldn't handle being told their child was wrong, especially after my sister Cassidy's severe Level 3 diagnosis in 2005. PLEASE, learn your babies more than they know themselves. It'll help them so much in the future. Our babies need all the help they can get ❤

[@allynicole1694]

Your confused and not happy being a trans man. Jesus is the true happiness and can and WILL give you the peace you need in your life. God bless ! Look up the romans road on yt

[@Cutesiecaiboii]

@@allynicole1694 Also I LOVE how you completely skip the fact of my main comment being about autism. I only stated I was trans, to help show people that girls have a harder time being diagnosed. Sadly, I wasn't born male but that doesn't stop me from advocating for EQUAL diagnose rights for Autism and other cognitive and mental delays.

[@allynicole1694]

That may be so and that is true about girls being harder to diagnose. But I care about you and your soul. Hell is a real place a horrible place. I promise you, Jesus is and everything your missing ! He has filled a empty void in my heart and he has given me a peace I have never found !

[@Cutesiecaiboii]

@@allynicole1694 Hun, once again I do follow God. You're seriously missing the point. I'm not going to hell, because I pray everyday and I read my Bible and I keep a very close, tight-knit relationship with the lord. YOU might go to hell for being so judgy a fellow brother, but me personally I try to do everything possible to NOT go to hell. Anyways, I hope you can find a better calling in life then telling a 19 year old he isn't what he is. God has also given ME a more open heart and has lifted my soul, which helped me open my eyes to being trans. Before meeting God, I was a confused child who partied and did powder drugs and pills. I had high amounts of sex for pleasure. Then I found God and he led me toward the path of coming out, starting mt medication and being the TRUE self I am. He helped me open my eyes, instead of hiding it away with sin and fear.

[@WackyDemonFire]

@@Cutesiecaiboii Don't listen to that person they don't understand what they're talking about.

[@alshomrani]

in my opinion this girl will be a completely normal person by time .. specially at age of 10 and more

[@windblade1205]

Love it😀😀😀😀😀😊🙂😉

[@lanaevans8319]

my daughter on the autism spectrum took a long time to diagnose as the focus on the DSM-V was on the nots ie doesnt like contact, prefers to be alone type of nots my daughter goes way beyond socially acceptable the other way and was overly friendly etc she regressed at 23 months but no one would listen

[@kyamole2627]

Autism and adhd are closely linked so it could of came from her side of the family too for example if a parent has epilepsy and they have a child diagnosed with autism because epilepsy If closely linked to autism too so it’s not about having the same diagnosis it’s about how closely linked the conditions are

[@coolhusky1239]

Amazing video I really love watching your KZbin videos there really good keep up the amazing videos I’m a girl on a autism spectrum I also have ADHD anxiety and I totally agree with this lady sorry I don’t know her name I hope u have amazing blessed day have a merry Christmas and a happy new year stay safe

[@LauraAnderson2009]

Hi! I'm the mom in this video. I have ADHD myself (late diagnosed, in fact). Thank you for your sweet words and I hope you have a great holiday season as well.