09/03/2026
šš§© People are quick to suggest spanking or physical punishment, but hitting an autistic child who is experiencing a sensory meltdown isn't discipline. It's adding fear to a brain that is already in fight-or-flight mode.
When Ellie or Carter are struggling, spanking wouldn't 'teach' them anythingāit would only make the meltdown worse.
With autism, what actually works is patience, regulation, removing sensory triggers, and modeling calm behaviors.
Discipline in our home means teaching and protecting, not punishing a disability.
To every parent standing firm in gentle, autism-informed parenting despite the outside noise: you're doing the right thing. Never let someone who hasn't walked a mile in your shoes tell you how to raise your kids.
