So—level II autism, or as this young man self-identifies, “moderate autism” is extremely interesting to me because my son was diagnosed with “moderate autism.” I was diagnosed with “Asperger’s”; although, I know that’s no longer the appropriate label.

I think the reaction in the comments would be entirely different if he said he had “mild” or level I autism. Or, he didn’t include the fact that he didn’t speak until age 4.

But—people who start where he started at 4 have outcomes all over the place. The same people who are being a bit “ick” or infantilizing in the comments are the people who treat my son like his best life outcome is working a menial job, which wouldn’t be a bad thing, but isn’t accurate or supported by research.

Part of that “awww” reaction is a shock that people with moderate autism can succeed at abled people’s game. And, maybe even beat them.

To me—the positive we can take from this is just always, always assume competence. I’ve seen so many people treat people who don’t speak as if they don’t understand, and that’s not an assumption you can make.