Autism Awareness Isn’t Enough: What Real Acceptance Looks Like

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In this episode of Wine with Wita, Rita sits down with David Flood, co-author of A Kids Book About Autism, which he created alongside his autistic son, Justin. David shares his experience of Justin’s autism diagnosis at 18 months. He also reveals the moments that led him to become a passionate advocate for autism inclusion.

When Justin reached middle school, the invitations stopped coming and he began eating lunch alone. That experience inspired David to speak in schools across the United States, helping students understand the difference between simply being aware of someone with a disability and genuinely accepting them.

David and Rita discuss the importance of entering an autistic child’s world. They explore how families can find support after an autism diagnosis and connect with others who understand the journey. They also talk about advocacy, kindness and belonging. Most importantly, they share how we can help every child feel seen, heard and valued.

David’s message is simple but powerful: awareness is knowing someone has a disability; acceptance is inviting them to sit with you.

In this episode 👇 Justin’s autism diagnosis at 18 months and navigating the early stages

His experience of exclusion at school and eating lunch alone

The difference between autism awareness, acceptance and true inclusion

Helping autistic children feel seen, heard and valued

Entering your child’s world and following their interests

Connecting with other parents and finding the right support

Advocating for your child during professional meetings

Turning one family’s experience into autism advocacy

Co-writing A Kids Book About Autism with Justin

Kindness, community, human connection and trusting your child’s path

Connect with David Flood: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidfloodspeaks A Kids Book About Autism :https://www.amazon.com.au/Kids-Book-About-Autism

Connect with Rita: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/winewithwitapodcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WineWithWitapodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2igo4o3aDACW150Al0aLr1 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/wine-with-wita-speech-pathology-parenting-support/id1743156009 Website: https://www.rsspeechpathology.com.au/ Connection Creates Communication waitlist: https://wine-with-wita.kit.com/connection-waitlist Wita's Weekly Wecap (newsletter): https://wine-with-wita.kit.com/09e84e6753

Wine with Wita is Australia's leading podcast for parents navigating life with children with communication difficulties, disabilities and additional support needs. Hosted by Rita Shamoun, speech pathologist and founder of RS Speech Pathology.

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/iros-young/a-perfect-day License code: HNK2Y5KYSFI2JFGE

The purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

New episodes every Friday.