Benjy

He has not yet settled in too well at school, seemingly content with playing pranks with his new friend Glenn, disrupting Miss Flower's kindergarten class and fighting with Tommy a first-grader who likes to bully new boys. This has led to a few uncomfortable encounters with Coach Anderson, trying to set Benjy on the right path.

Benjy shrugs Anyway, so I sometimes have tantrums like when I was two. I don't mind being autistic. I like being me. It's who I am. Coach Anderson That's a really good, positive attitude to have, buddy. Benjy beams to hear him say that I know I sometimes like being cheeky and backtalking, and I don’t always know what is app- pro- appropriate, but if you don't like it, I can learn not to do it, like any normal kid learning that. Dr. Hardman is a hard-ass doctor as he says even spanking counts as physical contact which every autistic kid needs. Mommy told him my daddy is in charge of my discipline, as she never laid a hand on me, and Dr. Hardman laughed and said 'There are some soft mothers.’ Coach Anderson I'm sure that's not the only physical contact you need! Benjy smiles shyly I told Uncle Liam what the doctor said about me having to feel comfortable in my surroundings... Dr. Hardman says physical contact is important for me to feel safe and secure and protected. It can be ruffling my hair, patting me on head, carrying me on your shoulders, holding my hand when we go to the mall, giving me a piggyback ride, throwing me in the air... hugs yeah even hugs sometimes... My daddy knows how to do all those things already, 'cause he's the best daddy in the world!