Living with “High Functioning” Autism (Connor's Experience)

Connor tells us about his "light" autism, as he likes to call it. Let us know if you have any questions and thank you for your support!
#autism #education #autismawareness #highfunctioningautism #autismfamily
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[MRLONDON]

I love this!! Thank you 🙏🏾

[spacemanspiff33]

Holy smokes Dad you're raising some class act kids. You're a big inspiration to other dads like myself.

[Cisco Rodriguez]

Totally agree my son is 6 and is diagnosed, he can't talk so is so much struggle

[Michelle House]

#YEYFATHERFIGURES

[Eric Seastrand]

You’re a smart and articulate kid. You’ll go far in life.

[Sara Leena Ait Oumessaoud]

@Sabine Günzl Dang:(

[Sabine Günzl]

@Sara Leena Ait Oumessaoud I remember not being treated nice in school because of math and science and just in general. I have an IQ of 145 and i was forced to LEAVE the higher school, because i couldn't connect to other students and was bat at sciences. i was good in english, german, latin and art tho, so i still finished school. but i remember it wasn't a great time of my life. constant masking and terrible bullying.

[Snow White]

You are a very bright and handsome young man.

[☁️🕊AndreaD]

People who cannot be articulate can go far in life also....

[Heathensauce]

That's what everyone says but it can cause more issues than help. Especially when people don't have proper help.

[Mcheed Radish]

Connor is very smart and talks so mature for his age. Love him!

[Anniken Little]

@Happydaysrcoming Goodnites Diapers

[Anniken Little]

@Philip PhilipBoys Wear Goodnites Diapers? Cool.

[Philip Philip]

@Anniken Little That's a weird and personal question. Plus who cares?

[Amanda Boyer]

Hey, Connor. My name is Amanda. I am a adult with High Functioning Autism or as you so eloquently put it “light” Autism. A little tip to help with Dyspraxia. When you are running especially in a confined space touch the walls. This will help orient you in space and time so you are less likely to run into things. I still sometimes trip and stub my toe though, even now. I hope that makes sense and helps. I wouldn’t want you to break your toe. Good luck out there! 🙂

[Annie W]

@whiskey builder medication and therapy for autism? Is there? Suggestions for types of therapies to stay away from or steer towards?

[Lukkipatti 95]

@Tracy Thomas me too my friend me too

[Tracy Thomas]

Also light Autism here, I STILL walk into doors and doorways. Now I just tell them that they should know to move by now. 😅 I also LOVE my Autism and my special nerdy interests as I call them.

[Lukkipatti 95]

Hey thanks for the advice U know It would be cool to be in the same rocket with connor

[Brie 🇺🇦]

“We’re okay with you stimming at home right?” “Yeah” Thing is… all of us out here.. we don’t NEED to be okay with it, Connor. You don’t need to mask. If someone judges you for it, take it as a blessing because you’ve just seen their true colors upfront. You know not to put your heart and trust into that person. It may sting people people treat us badly but often times it’s truly for the best as we learn from the start who they truly are as a person.

[Nadz]

I love you for this comment ❤️

[Corey Lewis]

From my many years of experience being autistic, I would say masking is a necessary defense mechanism. Is it healthy to always mask? No of course not, but that doesn't mean masking is bad in all situations or doesn't actually help autistic people at times either. And this goes far beyond just avoiding being seen as weird. How many autistic people have been killed by police who don't understand? It's a lot. Masking is a safety defense

[Halil Smith]

@Brie 🇺🇦 I am a 20 yo male autistic student living away from home and believe me if i say to you that you won't have any friends if you stim everywhere. I learned that the hard way. So now i "act" and have at least a few friends. Most of the time when i get a deeper connection with someone i can actually act more normal because they know me more and know that i don't mean it in a harmful way if that makes sense. So the tactic is to always "act" first and maybe open up later if it goes to the right direction, because most people will be creeped away by you if you don't "act".

[Juliz]

@Brie 🇺🇦 Just allow your child to do what they're comfortable with. That could be stimming in some situations and masking in others. Your child is not a tool for your activism.

[Liza Cyno]

Protect this child at all costs! 😢. As an late diagnosed autistic this made me cry. Just feeling all the things I used to feel-remembering being that age.

[k abcdef]

I am 49 and I stemmed all my life. Had a hard time on school but loved to learn. 6yrs to get BA and three 1/2 yes for masters! I did it even with the constant starting a task while thinking of three other things but texting my family. It’s always just mind in overdrive! Taking a class this weekend on rekki to heal my mind n quite the noise 🎉🎉. I am curious if I am but I will test my two sons 10, 8urs old.

[Emma T]

Oh darling, me too!

[1DirtyKilo]

Protect every child @ all costs

[JaredA38TV]

Hello Connor, I am 16 years old and I was diagnosed with High Functioning Autism 12 years ago. I find it really hard to make friends and to find like minded people. I always feel a sense of relief whenever I make a friend. In my spare time, I like to research, watch tv, and play videos. Quite frankly, I am glad that you cherish the moments you have at home. Home is very much my comfort zone, it provides me a sense of peace and compensation. So you know Connor, you are a very articulate and intelligent individual!

[ANNE TM]

But you are too! Never forget that. We're not alone!

[Lisa]

What a great boy! He is so well spoken and Insightful.

[Bolin Hong]

I also saw his recommendation and approach Dr Oyalo for the herbs on KZbin. The herbs has so far work positive on my child’s eye contacts and speech improvement. My child social skill is good now and response to name has improved too

[Millie Figueroa]

Conner, I forgot to tell you, I’m so proud of you, and I’m a scared Grandma of a 6yr old with the spectrum. I’m so proud and you bring a little relieve into my spectrum world

[Lego Chick]

I relate to you. I'm a very scared mom of a child with autism he's almost 6 and his meltdowns scare me sometimes. It changes him.

[Realalma]

@Tammy Jean I have a 9 year old grandson with autism as well. The best thing his parents have done is deciding to homeschool him. He is thriving now. I still worry about things though. Hugs.

[José Rojas]

@Bolin Hong scam

[Bolin Hong]

I also saw his recommendation and approach Dr Oyalo for the herbs on KZbin. The herbs has so far work positive on my child’s eye contacts and speech improvement. My child social skill is good now and response to name has improved too

[Tammy Jean]

I also have a 6 year old grandson with autism and he is struggling in school. Thanks young man for explaining this to us so we can have knowledge to help our grandchildren.

[Sabrina Marie]

Thanks Conner! Your relative (your Dad is my cousin) who is 16 years old has "light Autism" and has similar feelings as you. He's most comfortable at home too. He can blend in in public (mask) but he breaks down when he comes home from the social stress he experienced and from masking so much. Thanks for being brave and sharing your feelings! You're awesome!

[Rotha Bugter]

What is steming?? Or stimming. Thankyou so much your a lovely young man to share your knowledge with others Rotha (Australia)

[Tarot jackpot]

You are all awesome. Fantastic video

[Bolin Hong]

I also saw his recommendation and approach Dr Oyalo for the herbs on KZbin. The herbs has so far work positive on my child’s eye contacts and speech improvement. My child social skill is good now and response to name has improved too

[Autism Family]

Thanks Sabrina!

[Lenny Leonardson]

I was never on the spectrum, or even suspected of having autism. Everything Connor explained is me.

[Kerstin Klenovsky]

I am 55 and was diagnosed with high functioning autism / Aspergers syndrome 10 years ago. Whilst I recognize all the things that you are talking about, I must say that I am very grateful that I didn't grow up 'wearing the spectrum T-shirt', as it were. It helped me to work harder to overcome the typical challenges we guys struggle with. I became a teacher and an expert at masking. Having said this, receiving my diagnose at 45 was a game changer and a joy. Today I proudly 'wear my Asperger T-shirt' and celebrate being autistic. I work with kids like you and they are my best friends.

[Kerstin Klenovsky]

@JJ king I went to a specialist psychiatrist for three testing and assessment sessions when I was in my late 30s. I scored really high for Aspergers and since then I have been celebrating being myself.

[Peter Belanger]

I'm 52, diagnosed in 2003 with aspergers. I feel much the same way you do. I think too much special attention is being put on it, like a t-shit as you say. I think possible too much focus is on the kids, and too little is paid on us adults, to learn from our experience. As an adult 'on the spectrum' as they say, I find it extremely difficult to find any social support or find professionals who can even treat me. It's all about the kids. over 25 with autism?.... sorry, you are now on your own. Nobody even knows how to treat you.

[Juan Manuel Mora Montes]

Yeah, everyone's experience is different and valid, I personally think that it depends on how much it has affected someone's life, sometimes people can be cruel and bully you, and trying but not getting the results you wanted can be detrimental to mental health and can lead to the appearance of Depression/Anxiety, so yeah, it's not as easy in all situations but is good some people can overcome this through their own will.

[JJ king]

Curious how did you go about getting diagnosed? I’m 38 and feel like I might be high funtioning autistic as well, but as an adult wonder where and if I should even go or try to get a diagnosis? There isn’t medicine as far as I know so is it worth approaching? I’ve always felt different and the more I read or hear about autism the more it sounds like my whole life story.

[Kerstin Klenovsky]

@Cliche Guevara I totally agree with you. Thank you for seeing my point, though. 🤩

[A FOR ADVENTURE]

Connor is a very smart young man. He is so mature for his age he should become a teacher, and he explains things so clearly.

[Phil Mickelson’s calves]

He’s gonna be a rocket scientist , obviously

[kroo07]

I'm almost 70 and only learned a few years ago that I was autistic. I fortunately stumbled into engineering where quite a high percentage are autistic, most without realising it. Had a great career and family. Knowing my condition mostly helped my wife understand me better.

[Leigh Reinhart]

Thank you, Connor, for putting your thoughts into words so well! It seems like you were trying very hard to answer your Dad's questions as best you could, even though some of them were a little challenging. I would like to thank you very much for making this video, and for sharing your experiences and knowledge with others. 😊

[Virginia Connor]

My friend has high functioning Asperger's and nor only has she attained a BA in interior design, but also work in communications. She hates crowds and noises that suddenly pop up behind her. She's better in mathematics than I am, but tended to be a little literal-minded when I first met her. I used to nickname her "Saavik" from "Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan", but she's more like Cdr. T'Pol in "Enterprise".

[Bolin Hong]

I also saw his recommendation and approach Dr Oyalo for the herbs on KZbin. The herbs has so far work positive on my child’s eye contacts and speech improvement. My child social skill is good now and response to name has improved too

[Shelby Nash]

My boyfriend has autism and he can’t express his feelings to me

[Mindfreedom]

I'm honestly impressed by how smart and eloquent this young man is, I truly wish him all the best!

[Phil Mickelson’s calves]

People with Asperger’s are generally more intelligent than the average person

[snigdha das]

When my 4 year old was diagnosed with mild autism about 5 months ago, your channel was the first place to give me hope. I can't express how much I appreciate your videos. Judging by my kid's response to the speech therapy and OT in this short span of time, I feel like he is most similar to Connor. Today, I kinda think of Ian, Connor and Alistair like I would think about my own nephews.

[Evely L]

@Finnloaf do you know of an alternate treatment??

[Gordon Thomson]

@Rivai Nursetyo if ABA works for you, go for it! Ignore those internet voices who would condemn you for trying to help your child.

[Finnloaf]

@Rivai Nursetyo Please look into the dangers of ABA more, new research shows that it can be very damaging and possibly even traumatic for autistic kids! They teach you how to hide your autism and they teach boundaries as a bad thing, which can lead to problems with setting any boundaries at all later in life which can be really dangerous. I'm not trying to say what you should and shouldn't do with your kid, but please do be aware of the possible negative long term effects of ABA

[Rivai Nursetyo]

My son 4 yo diagnosis with moderate autism in 2.5 yo, now he doing therapy (ABA VB) and showing improvements little by little.. oh ya, and the first channel i look up to is from Mary barbera..

[Victoria M]

“home is the most comfortable place” i am really happy to hear this. for me it was really uncomfortable place until i started to live alone. but i’ve found the most comfortable place for me (after my room) - techno clubs. people don’t watch you in the eyes, you can move like you want, everyone respect your personal space, no small talks if you don’t want them, you can have a verity of smiles on your face (this is my steaming- crazy smiling) and if someone sees it, they think you’re on dr*gs. music goes through you, moves all your organs.

[Games_Bond]

I'm on the higher functioning end of the spectrum and since I'm a girl, it took me 14 years to get a diagnosis. My main struggles are social interaction and sensory issues. I have no idea how to make friends and most things people find nice (pastel colors, bland foods, taking baths, talking about trends) I hate, and the things I like (bright colors, silence, sharp tastes, being dry, talking about deep aspects of life) people hate. I am now 16 years old and got an official ASD diagnosis 1.5 years ago, right before my 15th birthday. I started noticing weird things in myself when I was 8, I kept telling people about it and all I got was "You're just really smart" (my IQ is somewhere around 150ish) and so I just stopped saying anything. 5 more years of suffering later I received my first phone and one of the first things I did was look up my behaviors to see if anything matched them. Turns out it was one of 2 things: ASD or ADHD. I researched for 6 months before finally telling my parents that I thought I might be autistic. They told me it wasn't possible, because they had met autistic kids and I didn't scream, kick or bite. After 6 more months I was able to get therapy and my therapist scheduled an ASD assessment. I walked into the neuropsychologist's room and after 30 minutes of talking, before the tasks were even given to me, she said "You know... You are right. You are autistic, I can see it" and not even a month later I was diagnosed. My mom apologized for not believing me. My dad still doesn't believe I have autism and says I am just a lazy brat. It hurts to hear him say that, but I'm learning to ignore it. All my old teachers said "Oh but she doesn't look autistic, are you sure you had the right diagnosis?" or even worse "Well but she's got such mild autism, if she even does have it in the first place, she surely doesn't even struggle that much!" Meanwhile my brain: "Hi!! Did you know that dogs sweat through their tongue???? Because they have hair so if they sweat from their skin they would be constantly wet! Do you want to be my friend? ...No no no that sounds weird they will think I'm weird... Let's try again... Hi. I'm Rebecca. I'm 16. I like dogs. Do you want to be friends?" (that usually is perceived weird anyway so people kind of walk away and I spend the following week thinking what I did wrong...) Also my brain: "Loud noise, loud noise, loud noise!!! Flap your hands, it will help... Oh wait, no there's people... Ignore the noise, ignore it!" until eventually KABOOM (meltdown/shutdown) Also my brain: "OOOH LOOK THERE'S SOMEONE NAMED PIERRE! You should definitely talk about your favorite singer!" goes up to person: "Did you know that there's a Canadian band called Simple Plan and..." Just because people don't see the struggles, it doesn't mean they aren't there. I'm commenting both for this video and the "Your Child Doesn't Look Autistic!" one. Sorry if it's too long. I had a lot of things on my mind hehe. Also hi Connor! I'm glad you felt comfortable enough to make this video! Wish you and your family a great day/week/month/year

[Carrie Miles]

@Alana Yaw if it’s a public school, they legally have to help. Contact the special education department at your BOE.

[Alana Yaw]

wow your comment made me cry, because I recently got high functioning diagnose for ASD for my 13 year old daughter and the school is not willing to help but pragmatic is a big struggle for her. Thanks for sharing.

[Carrie Miles]

My daughter was diagnosed at 13, she’s now 15. She’s in a clinical day school, so that helped a lot of her behavioral issues. We’re still learning & going at this together, one day at a time.

[Games_Bond]

@Viji Sugumar I started talking at around 1 year old but the thing that got people's attention was that I started to read at 3 and write at 3.5 years old. And your words mean a lot to me, thank you

[Viji Sugumar]

@Games_Bond God bless u kid! Could you just tell me at what age did u start to say single words and quite frequently.. ? My 2.5 yr is under observation for ASD but not yet confirmed. He is talking single words and one or two sentences but not boldly or really not consistent either. He is attending Speech Therapy weekly once. On seeing you , Connor and a few other kids, it's a deep sigh of relief and yes absolutely there is no necessity to mask your feelings or thoughts. I would say everyone in this world is autistic because.. if being alone in your world is autism, yes everyone is autistic since they're just with their mobile and avoid people. If being too adamant is autistic, then definitely 100 💯, people in this world are autistic. If the rocking of the body is autistic, then I rock almost all 24/7 but I know so many in this world love to rock their body for comfort just to avoid the weight of the body while standing or during most painful times of back. So there's nothing like autistic, normal etc,. Once my kid starts to speak, it's enough for me. I will make him like you and Connor whether he has ASD or not, because nobody else in this world can be so honest and clear with their pure feelings and perspectives. God bless 🙏🏼

[Christinad443]

Wow! He reminds me soooo much of my daughter. She's 15 and high functioning autistic also. She's so smart and such an amazing artist. She also won Math Student of the Year at her school last year. She doesnt allow her autism to get in her way. She actually says she likes having the type of autism that she has because it's like a "super power." (her words not mine) She can hyper focus on things and once she learns something she never forgets it. She's an awesome kid and I wish you guys lived in Maryland because I know our kids would get along very well.

[Chess Game]

umm can conner have the mic back please, lady... ok, thank you...🙄 🤦‍♀️

[Winter Dream]

Thank you so much for doing this video, Connor! I have 2 grand kids who are not high functioning like you. It's very hard sometimes but I think I'm getting better at understanding them. Hear you speak so clearly - so well spoken, focused and intelligent - made me smile. My grand kids are getting help and I hope they are like you when they get older... though I would not be upset as long as they can live and be happy. Well done, young man!

[Dora]

First of all, BIG RESPECT 🙏🏻 to the father who so heroically and lovingly used as an example his own son. It shows that any parent should be proud to have a kid with autism. Second, EVEN GREATER RESPECT to his son, who stood in front of the camera and as a brave hero that he is, he explained to all of us struggling through this spectrum, that we may actually be super smart as is he. Lastly, Sir, your son appears more mature than his age, has better social skills that me as a 30yr, and I believe he'll make you even more proud in the future by helping others understand and cope with their autistic traits.

[Darkchipz]

I have high functioning autism and anxiety.Sometimes I scare to have eye contact because it makes me feel uncomfortable and giving me anxiety.I love to make EDM music becuase it gives me comfortable. Thanks for the video Connor!

[Plus2022]

Well if it makes you feel better, eye contact with mammals can be a sign of aggression so it makes sense to feel uncomfortable with it. If you stare at humans or any mammal, it's confrontational. People are not supposed to make too much eye contact with you, if they do then they're just rude. Even in a conversation, you're supposed to look away sometimes, not make eye contact square on the entire time. Looking away is a sign of respect. That's why a dog that respects its owner/pack will look away from eye contact for the most part.

[Tiny King]

I’m neurotypical and I absolutely hate eye contact as well. You aren’t alone. ❤️

[Bolin Hong]

I also saw his recommendation and approach Dr Oyalo for the herbs on KZbin. The herbs has so far work positive on my child’s eye contacts and speech improvement. My child social skill is good now and response to name has improved too

[massboy11]

What an impressive young man with an equally impressive vocabulary.

[Pyao]

Hi Connor thank you so much for sharing, I’m 24 and your insight made me realize I masked like my whole teenage years even at home until recently. My mom told me the other day I “act more like myself like when I was a kid” now and I think it’s because we moved around a lot and FINALLY settled down and I feel comfortable at home again…🌸

[Catie Hays]

These boys have really matured quite a bit over the last year!!

[Bolin Hong]

I also saw his recommendation and approach Dr Oyalo for the herbs on KZbin. The herbs has so far work positive on my child’s eye contacts and speech improvement. My child social skill is good now and response to name has improved too

[janis]

The grow so quickly to

[TheRockNRollGamer95]

I am a 14 year old boy from Ireland with Autism. Being autistic is something I prefer not to take notice of. However, being autistic is very annoying as I easily have issues understanding people, issues with school, etc. Thanks for this awesome video. It helps me relate to you guys, and it helps me realise I am not alone (Even though I have friends with autism too).

[Anders]

He is awesome! I wish him all the best in his future. I'm 27 and I haven't realised until recently what my "problem" was. Great to see such a supportive dad😊

[Curious Bystander]

@Annie W right on the news just now.... neurobehavioral effects from red dye in foods...and you were saying about genetics and add? Wired different from being fed different?

[Curious Bystander]

amazing.... 'and the doctors are not experienced in clinical diagoses yet." and they aren;t taught anything about the biome and nutrition, nor are the psych folks...have fun...eat well.....chew before you swallow, it helps.

[Love Is]

Love this!!! My daughter says she is 6D not Autistic 😀 I believe this children deal with this realm different they are so brilliant and on a whole different plan that what we perceive as normal. School is hard because they are quick. I really wish there was a school only for Autism diagnosis children. I will do my best to make sure that happens one day soon. May The Most High keep us stronger daily.

[Will Pham]

You are a wonderful human being, keep the spirit up. My little niece who is now 6 also has this, and it breaks my heart sometimes, but I know she will do great things and be able to do well in life.

[Francia Stone]

Connor is so smart. So articulate.

[awaitthegroom]

My eldest son walked at 8 months and could talk in full at 12 months. He was reading Lord of the Rings at age 6 and could play any instrument he wanted. He has a high IQ and did very well in school and was termed gifted but he struggled every day and many other parents found him a challenge at sleep overs. Hes 36 about to have his own child and still struggles with sensory overload. We all love him so much but I wish I had known more as a young mum.

[LolaB]

He is extremely intelligent and articulate 😅🥰 this makes me soooo hopeful for my soon to be 4 year old 😍

[Anne-Sophie Lahlou]

Thanks Connor you are another version of my son looking a lot like you physically and phychologically, and myself at your age! I transmitted my Aspie world to my son and I’m proud of it. Take care

[Bolin Hong]

I also saw his recommendation and approach Dr Oyalo for the herbs on KZbin. The herbs has so far work positive on my child’s eye contacts and speech improvement. My child social skill is good now and response to name has improved too

[Nancy Kimbrough]

Good job Conner. My teenage son has " light autism" also. School very stressful for him and me as well knowing what he had to deal with ,but he is the most wonderful child in the world to me. Very proud of you

[Brian J. Mack]

Thank you, Connor.

[teegin tom]

Thank you Connor for being so open and sharing your experience with autism. I was diagnose with high functioning autism after 62 year and I finally know why I did and do certain thing now .When I was a kid I mask a lot but did not even know to use the word mask . I just want to thank your whole family for sharing. It really helps to understand as I share some of the traits you and your brothers have. At my age we did not have the therapy treatments we have today.

[Sarah Selzer]

This sounds a lot like my son, Aiden. It's great to see another young man learning to thrive and better understand all the parts that make him whole. Thanks for sharing the experience and helping others to learn more about light autism.

[S Wysocki]

I wish this video could be shown in every school in the U.S. Connor, that analogy was wonderful! I've worked with different children from Autism Lite to Dee[ Autism. Each of them was a special gift to those of us who knew and worked with them. Thank you for helping others understand.

[Lorraine Pigeon]

Thank you for these insights Connor. As the mom to a high-functioning autistic child (who is now an adult studying electrical engineering) , I really appreciate everything you said, your thoughtful explanations. They help me understand my son so much better and love him for who he is. And also help him navigate this world. I wish you all the best Connor. Thank you for your courage and honesty.

[Шелдон Купер]

I'm the exact same with my autism. The masking until I'm home, the eye contact issue, etc. Also the getting excited and getting hurt from running around over excitement is so me lol. I constantly have at least one injury on my body from my clumsiness lol

[Jerry Smith]

Many thanks for sharing your world with me. I learn so much in understanding my 3 year old’s world. This help me a lot in relating to my son and helping him. Great job Connor.

[Nicole Yap]

Such a smart and handsome young man. He is so well-spoken. I wish him well. He will do great things in life.

[Candace Young]

Thank you for making of this video. My 14 year old son is high functioning autism and I am truly grateful he picked me to be his mom. God bless you.

[YahushaHamashiach]

What a smart boy. He is very blessed to have such good parents. Having "light autism" myself, I couldn't have explained everything he said any better.

Thank you Connor so much for sharing. My grandson is autistic so you're helping me to understand him better.

[Lynn Tran]

I have 2 Autistic children who are also severe language delayed. I really appreciate this video. Thank You Connor! 🙏

[TheTruthIsGonnaHurt]

Conner, thank you!! 🙏🙏🙏 You give me hope for my own 2 year old son. I am terrified. When he goes into his loops, I feel as if I lost him. He is non verbal and I want nothing more then to have a dialogue with him. Thank you so much for giving me a glimpse into his world.

[Lisa]

Ian, Connor and Alistair are such lovely, intelligent, charming young men and these videos are delightful. I was diagnosed this year at 53. It's been a struggle but this channel both helps and warms my heart. Thank you for sharing your family with us.

[Jerry Traveler]

Your son is very articulate and he is able to explain what is going on with him. God Bless.

[Oksana Shmyr]

Such a smart and lovely boy! Thank you for sharing your experience, this video will help a lot of people to understand more about autism. It is definitely helping me to understand my son who is autistic but can’t explain his inner world yet. Thank you!😊 Wish you all the best!

[Serena]

I have ADHD, not sure if I also have autism or not. I realized just recently that these things I’ve been doing my whole life are called stims! Im putting so many things together finally.

[Lacey Mcculloch]

What a sweet little boy! My son was recently diagnosed with high functioning autism, I'm still learning about this. Thank you for sharing. I feel this helps me to better understand my son. If you don't mind me asking do you ever deal with trouble at school with aggression, how do you cope? Thank you for sharing your lives with us. Sending you love and light!

[Twins Claudia & Olivia Markowich]

My son is a first year in college across the United States. He has similar light Autism too. It's only a part of who he is. Your amazing just like him. He's talent is Mathematics. Best of luck to you and your family!

[Cliche Guevara]

Wow dude. I was JUST like you at your age. You’re so very lucky that you got diagnosed young and have a support system around you!

[Keni]

And It's kind of funny it took me this long.

[Cliche Guevara]

@Keni I found out I’m autistic at 39. It would have been VERY helpful information at 18 or 19 though. Lol

[Keni]

Fr. Figure it out at 34 😂. Would've been useful early on.

[Em busca do chifre inexplicacável]

Yup

[kir]

I’m 13, and I also have high functioning autism. I’ve noticed that a lot of people, especially kids who have it tend to be a lot more mature and open minded. It feels good when you grow up faster, but I wish I had a better childhood.

[Jeena Sohaily]

My son is 4 he has autism but there is nothing wrong with autism it’s just brain work in different way than other people in my idea if I am not wrong , but I love my kid whatever he is . But believe me you guys more special than us 😌

[Cynthia B]

Thank you for sharing your experience, Connor. My 11yo was diagnosed with light autism but he still struggles to express himself and communicate his experience. That makes it difficult for me to help him. Thank you for sharing.

[Ena Rose]

This was beautiful! He seems very knowledgeable about autism and himself at such a young age and it seems a lot of that is due to your great parenting! The little Jim Carey snippet completely caught me off guard and made me laugh haha!

[Michelle House]

Knowing our health history is more important than being had by quacks💕

[Bonnie Durham]

This young man is amazing! My 37 yr old son was very much like Connor when he was young. Connor will go very far in life just as my son has. Thank you for sharing!

[Amarilis]

Great young man! The first person in my family that was assumed to have Autism was a younger cousin. He talked late, and learned by repeating what others said. But now he is like a walking encyclopedia. He’s wicked smart it’s scary! Such an amazing soul… I have a 3.5 yr old that was given an educational diagnosis of autism once realizing he was speech delayed before starting school. At first I didn’t know how to feel. I just wanted life to be easy for him, I already know how tough it can be. But I realize I love him and I’m willing to show him how to deal and cope with all things in life… he’s learned so much since being in school this past year for the first time.. he’s saying so many words, and knows his numbers and abcs without singing it.. a little picky with food and not into the potty training number, but I know we’ll get there soon together ❤ Thank you for the video 🎉 It’s always great to know you’re not alone!

[Gretchen Stribling]

Hi Connor, I’m 58 and late diagnosed female. I too have Autism, Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, and ADHD combined, and Sensory Processing Disorder. You are correct, stemming is natural automatic thing, and I appreciate your video. I do the whole swaying thing too, along with a lot of other stems as it’s just the way I am. I decided to allow myself to stem in public, as it helps my nervous system stay calm and keeps down burn out which is an unhealthy thing for autistics, especially as we age. You are a bright young man, and we all welcome you to the autistic community. I am sure you will do great things, and become very successful. BTW, I’m a level 2, and if I can be successful then I know you can be too! My secret was to do what I was good at, and hire people to do what I wasn’t good at. Your family seems to be very supportive and understanding, and that is a fantastic thing!! Sending you well wishes and inspiration to continue to be your authentic self. Never, ever be afraid to be who you are, as there is nothing wrong with being autistic. It’s just a difference in wiring in our brains. If it wasn’t for people like us, who think and perceive the world differently, there would never be new ideas, out of the box thinkers with new and creative ideas, and inventions. Keep shining bright, and showing the world that autism is a Bonus to the world, not a negative!!! I appreciate you, and applaud your strength and wisdom.. keep going, and keep educating the world! All the best to you and your family, my fellow AutiKin.

[Adrianne E.]

Thank you so much Connor. My grandson is on the spectrum and your video is helping me understand better what he is experiencing and helps me to figure out ways to be more supportive of him in a meaningful way. Thanks to your Dad too, for the videography work. You guys are doing a great service. :D

[tales from princesa jesa]

Hi Connor, I am on the spectrum too. I really liked your analogy that stimming is just like breathing. Good luck to you! You are articulate and self-aware :)

[Simon Le Doux]

I taught kids his age for years and he reminds me of some students I had. He really seems like a well rounded and bright boy. His parents must be quite proud of him!

[Kathy Vega]

Connor is so brave! I love this video and as a mom of a light autism boy I see my son so so much in Connor. This helps me know my boy is not alone 💙

[Elaine Walker]

Wow what a perfect kid. I especially love how Conner seems comfortable in his skin talking about autism positively. Most adults with autism are like “Woe is me..” I personally love being autistic and realize all of the down sides have only to do with the rest of the world not understanding yet.

[INTP]

Woe not whoa 😂

[Sindy Hope]

Hi Connor. Wow, what an interesting video you made. That takes guts, well done young man! I've learnt so much from you and wanted to say thank you. Well done, You are very intelligent and brave and I'm sure you will help many people this way. 😁

[sadnite.over.epsilon]

How Connor feel about routine? It's often one of the key symptoms for diagnosing autism, like they feel anxious when they don't follow their usual routine. Would love video about that!

[Bolin Hong]

I also saw his recommendation and approach Dr Oyalo for the herbs on KZbin. The herbs has so far work positive on my child’s eye contacts and speech improvement. My child social skill is good now and response to name has improved too

[Joe Myers]

I've had 35 different kids in my care though mainly 2 brothers one of which had Asperger's and was non verbal from trauma who stopped taking at 3yo altogether. I got them at 8 & 2 and after 2 yrs E started talking one day when I was unintentionally ignoring he request for a drink. He became the best kid in the world, now 19yo and living out of home with mates doing a course at Tafe. Your son is beautiful, intelligent and has 0 to worry about as he is such a super nice kid.

[Kevin Mulligan]

Hi Conner. I am also a high functioning Autistic. I'm 68 now, and have had a great life that's been full of adventure. I know you have many great experiences ahead of you. Glad your video came up on my feed.

[Nathalie Martineau]

What you do is awsome Connor, because you help a parent like me understand better my own son. He is not as verbal as you are so he can't always explain what he is going through. So by talking about your experience, you help him although everybody is different , and there is "ligher" forms of autism , there are still things in commun.

[Catherine James]

It was great ti listen to you Connor, you’re amazing to do this video at your young age. I’m also Autistic, grandma material now though. So impressed by you, I have stubbed my toes sooo much now, I’ve actually had surgery so that I can fit into shoes more comfortably after too many fractures. I’ve lived a lifetime of trying to hide my true self,though I have lots of skills that have helped me to be quite successful compared to many. I’m sure your life will be amazing if you stay true to your wonderful self. You obviously are blessed with great parents.

[S R]

Thank you for making these videos. They are helpful for families with children who have autism. My daughter also has high functioning autism. 💙

[Ha An Nguyen]

Me too, I want to be a pediatrician when I am older

[Bolin Hong]

I also saw his recommendation and approach Dr Oyalo for the herbs on KZbin. The herbs has so far work positive on my child’s eye contacts and speech improvement. My child social skill is good now and response to name has improved too

[Sky Meadow 7🦋7]

Thank you Conner! My grandson is autistic and I have a close bond with him. Sending Love, keep working on your Space Dreams,. We need you.

[Jenny Chowdhury]

Thank you for helping us gain insight Connor. My son is HF ASD and everything you described applies to him. You’re a smart boy wishing you best of luck ❤

[Keith Mikell]

I like the awareness you are putting on autism. Im a late diagnosed person and i had to live my entire adult life undiagnosed and confused.

[EmFamil001 F]

Connor is awesome ! ❤

[A Grady]

My son was diagnosed with Autism today. Hearing Connor is familiar to my 8 year old. I am looking for videos he may be able to relate and understand. This is a journey and I hope he will feel okay with what I am going to have to share with him as I learned of the outcome while he was in school.

[KAA]

What a remarkable interview Connor you have made me understand a bit more about high functioning autism.our son is 4 and waiting to be assessed but the health visitorsaid he's on the spectrum. He stims and also vocally stims he recites mickey mouse sayings and finds some words really funny.he lines things up and gets really upset when his routine doesn't always go to plan. Just always remember ..AUTISM IS A SUPER POWER.

[Bolin Hong]

I also saw his recommendation and approach Dr Oyalo for the herbs on KZbin. The herbs has so far work positive on my child’s eye contacts and speech improvement. My child social skill is good now and response to name has improved too

[Claude Bentley]

I’m so impressed with you Connor and I’m also impressed with your father the way he is being so much a part of the conversation with you I love the fact that you can be so mature at your age to see there’s nothing wrong with isolating between what you’re calling stemming or how you might act in a social environment masking I believe the more genuine human being is when you’re alone with your family and allowed to just be yourself I guess that’s what you’re calling steming. You seem so honest and genuine Connor I wish I could be more like you if everybody was more like that it would be a better world!

[Gorgeous Akosua]

Thank you. My son is 8 and his school psychologist sees a lot of „light autism“ signs. Your son reminds me of my son. I am here to learn.

[Resurrected]

I like this kid, he really reminds me of my younger self. Same struggles and same mindset. I was diagnosed at a pretty young age, now 26 and still struggling with some things, especially social stuff. I think Connor will make it far in life, smart kid.

[Betty Damn Boop]

Conner there are thousands of people who have autism and you coming forward to explain your journey will definitely help those of us who have it and those of us who don’t. You are well spoken and I want to say Thank you 🙏🏻

[Joshua]

Interesting way to describe stimming. For me it’s my bodies way of releasing stress. I am acutely aware of it but only because I know how others would view it. I do it automatically when alone but am more aware of it than my breathing. Although I do find that I hold my breath alot when under stress as well. Conor is very self aware for such a young man. Good job Dad, way to make home such a safe space!

[GloriososMomentos= Palabra Dura Poderosa De DIOS!]

Thank you, Conner; you did great at clarifying. My child just got diagnosed with ADHD, On High Spectrum function, Sensory Disorder, and the list continues. I am trying to learn everything that I can. Thank you, Dad, for posting these videos.

[Bolin Hong]

I also saw his recommendation and approach Dr Oyalo for the herbs on KZbin. The herbs has so far work positive on my child’s eye contacts and speech improvement. My child social skill is good now and response to name has improved too

[Jackie Alba]

Thank you Connor! My son is 14, mostly nonverbal.. he is trying hard to talk. He does sing and dance. I thought my son how to play Xbox 360. He stims. I don't mind it. You are educating me as a parent! Love it. You so ROCK!!! Mom and Woman Veteran. Your so smart! You will do great things in life. Hugs ❤️

[C10 hrn Rn11]

What a KIDDO !! Wishing him a bright future ! Looks/sounds like an amazing kid !

[1985 BTTF]

Great interview Connor! You explained your answers so easily and still it was very informative.

[Robin Fenn]

Brilliant Connor, thank you soooooo much! You are so helpful💙 and you are super clear and have an amazing vocabulary 💙

[Margaret Wilkins]

He is a very sweet kid. Aspergers or not. I love the fact he is into Outer Space. Keep on moving on Connor....smart Boy ❤

[Bradley Russell]

Connor, thanks being willing to share that with others, that is a very big thing for Autistic people. I know this because I am also a High-Functioning Autistic. You're not the only the only one that stims because I have stimmed as well. Honestly, eye contact is sometimes a problem for me as well. I am interested in Math, the weather, and music. I can sing bass. I check the weather forecast every day. Back when I was in eighth grade, I was known as the human calculator. I wear glasses as well. I like to play games on my Wii console, my PS2, and my phone; however, I also have a lot of board games. I have a couple of 3,000 piece puzzles. I have a puzzle that looks like our solar system hanging on the wall in my room. I'll send a photo of that puzzle to y'all via Messenger. Lastly, I will be 20 by Christmas Day of this year.

[Debbie Flaherty]

What an amazing, honest and informative young man. Thank you for sharing.

[Nikita Bolotin]

Thank you Conor! That's very brave filming your story! Very interesting and helpful!

[David Arndt]

I had a few Teachers that I hated. I didn’t feel comfortable around them. That made it hard for me to learn. I wasn’t comfortable talking to or even looking at those Teachers.

[Anne Crane]

I'm an adult now, with undiagnosed autism, in the process of getting the help I need to make sense of my day to day life. Watching this video I see so much of myself as a child, even if I never understood why I did the things I did and the people around me also didn't know or understand or were able to give me the support I needed. It makes me cry a little, happy tears, knowing that this clever, articulated, brilliant boy is growing up in a family and an environment where he is understood and accepted. At the start of the video when Dad mentioned stimming and Connor had that split second of pausing in his swaying, I just felt such a stab of fear that he would try and mask. I was very glad when he allowed himself to continue because he knew he was in a safe place. When I was a kid, I got so good at masking my lack of eye contact, constant stimming and other unacceptable social behaviours, that now when I try to unlearn it, it is causing me actual physical discomfort when I hold myself back from masking. I hope Connor, his brothers and anyone else on the spectrum, diagnosed or not, will never have to unlearn masking because it was never something they had to learn in the first place.

[tales from princesa jesa]

I feel the same. thank you for your comment and best of luck on this journey

[Esteban B]

I’m in a similar situation. I hope you’re well and wish you nothing but the best. It is no small challenge, that is for sure.

[norah kachione]

Very proud of you Connor for speaking on this. Much appreciated

[WilliamVasquez Vasquez]

Conner answered your questions like a mature adult👍! Those questions were excellent👍! And Conner, you’re very welcome and I’m glad I subscribed🙂! Thanks for sharing with us👍! Love you all and God bless✝️🙏🏻❤️🙂🌈!

[Bolin Hong]

I also saw his recommendation and approach Dr Oyalo for the herbs on KZbin. The herbs has so far work positive on my child’s eye contacts and speech improvement. My child social skill is good now and response to name has improved too

[Michael Craig]

Thank you for sharing your experiences, Connor. You’re a very bright and kind young man who will go far in life.

[Southern Comfort UK]

Thank you Connor (and dad) for making this important video. It will be such a great help to so many people. 🙏🙏

[Molly Turro]

This kiddo is so cute! I just got the diagnosis for my 9.5 year old, and this video just makes me smile.