Introducing Little D's La Finca Uresti
AutismNotEvery1
Little D's La Finca Uresti is a little farm in Rural Texas. It has become David's place of therapy where he is thriving everyday while working with animals and starting his own business in order to help sustain his independence and be self sufficient.
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Autism and Our Farm
Learning as we Go!
I have been reflecting on the significance of inclusion for individuals on the autism spectrum, specifically regarding my experience with my child, David, at his new school. From the outset, I have advocated for his inclusion. Although the journey has been challenging and there is still much progress to be made, I was particularly struck by a weekend event in 2021 during the county stock show competition. That weekend, I observed David in an environment where he felt completely at ease among others.
He appreciated being acknowledged by his peers; I noticed other children approaching him to say hello. Although he took a moment longer to respond—often after they had already moved on—his ability to greet them, albeit belatedly, demonstrated his engagement with his surroundings. This experience illuminated for me the profound impact that inclusion can have on him.
David has so much to contribute and so many aspirations, yet he faces challenges due to social interactions. I believe that if neurotypical individuals extend respect, kindness, and patience, allowing autistic individuals the space to respond and express themselves, meaningful change can occur. It is essential to recognize that every individual is unique, and what has held true for David may not apply universally. However, it underscores the necessity for further research into inclusion practices, ensuring that autistic individuals are not compelled to mask their traits but are instead given the opportunity to self-regulate without shame.
During the event, I observed David take a few moments to manage his anxiety through pacing and deep breathing, an important release amid a noisy environment. This practice seemed to help him understand that it is acceptable to be himself. Subsequently, he was able to relax and engage with those around him. At times, he simply sat or leaned against something, watching and learning. He appeared to manage the situation without feeling overwhelmed, viewing any wait times—sometimes lasting several hours—as a challenge to embrace rather than a source of distress. Ultimately, I believe that both Dayi and I, felt more anxious about the situation than he did.
