William Gibson is a typical sixth grader.
He has his own YouTube channel, plays trumpet in the school band and likes to play several sports. He even likes to do parkour, a training discipline that developed from military obstacle training in which an individual moves from one point to another in the fastest and most efficient way without assistive equipment.
“I really like parkour. That is what I’m trying to learn. The only trick I’ve really learned is called a dive-roll,” Will says.
The only difference between Will and his peers is a developmental disorder called autism spectrum disorder. With all of the information available today surrounding autism, there is still so much that is unknown.
While Will would be considered in the middle of the spectrum, his personality is far from average. He is aware of his condition and works very hard to overcome his challenges.
A major hardship for children with autism is social interactions. Helping around his parents’ restaurant, Little Jimmy’s Lunchbox, provides Will with an outlet to work on those skills.
“We want him up here, because that’s what he wants to do. He wants to be a chef. He’s been saying that for a couple of years now,” says mother, Allison Gibson.
His father, Jimmy Gibson, agrees. “We like him up here so he can have some social interaction.”
It wasn’t until Will was 16-18 months old that his differences became apparent, as is typical with several children with autism. By two years old, his symptoms were very noticeable.
They were referred to the Boling Center for Developmental Disabilities in Memphis when Will was three years old. They would travel to Memphis three times a week for Parent/Child Interactive Therapy. Soon after, he was officially diagnosed.
Before Will was diagnosed, his parents had no prior knowledge about autism. The doctors, schools and teachers have provided them with many resources and have become a source of support for the family.
“Angie Richardson was his preschool teacher and she was just wonderful with him. She really took the time and helped him with being verbal,” says Allison, “Also, his band director, Kreston Smith, does wonders with him. He is so patient with him.”
Patience along with routine is the biggest piece of advice the Gibsons have for any parents managing a child with autism. Will’s responsibilities at home include washing dishes, doing laundry and vacuuming. His routine is important. Even the littlest deviation can throw him off.
They also encourage other parents to find a support group to talk with other parents. Resources like this can provide insight, encouragement and help prepare for future obstacles.
So far, the greatest challenge for Will is being in school and behavior issues. This is common among children his age, autistic or not.
“We still hold him to discipline standards of the other students. Like when he gets in trouble, he knows he is going to be in a bad state when he gets home. He’s aware of his condition, and that it is not to be used as a crutch to fall on,” says Jimmy.
Most children with autism experience sensory overload, which can be tied to behavioral issues. The littlest thing can become overwhelming for them, and they temporarily lose behavioral control.
Take fabrics, for example. Will cannot wear shirts with tags, or writing on them. The sensation of feeling the tag or writing on his skin is unbearable. Also, the sounds heard in a barber shop or dentist used to be a problem, but they have worked with special barbers and dentists to ease his frustrations.
“He actually used to not like water, particulary on his head,” says Jimmy.
He has since overcome this sensory issue and loves to swim. The family is going on a cruise this October to Mexico and Will has already gone over the rules and layout of the cruise ship.
His attention to detail is just the beginning of his exceptional abilities. He likes to follow the rules, and also organize and design things.
His obedience of the rules saved his brother from being bitten by snakes. Organizing his DVDs, video games and books showcases his meticulousness. Weapons are a hobby of his, and not only is he a collector, but he also comes up with original designs.
When Allison mentions the misconceptions about autism, she likes to quote Temple Grandin, a pioneer in the autistic community.
“I am different, not less.”
Jimmy says, “All of the different special education students I’ve worked with, it is about you have to enter their world. They are waiting for you to enter their world. Once you do, they will become your best friend.”
Early intervention has been a tremendous help, and Will’s social skills have definitely improved since helping out at the restaurant.
Will’s specific journey has inspired Allison to run for the Tipton County School board seat in District 2. Her platform will be on autism awareness.
