Ohio mother Nicole Jackson, known as @thicnicjack on TikTok, has struck a chord with parents all around the world for her viral video outlining her rules for her teenage son. In her hilarious and relatable TikTok, titled “What we not gonna do,” Jackson tackles the common struggles parents face when their kids transition from summer freedom to their back-to-school days.
Rule 1: The Mysterious Stomach Ache
Jackson humorously questions the sudden appearance of a stomachache in her son once his back-to-school time starts. She points out how her 13-year-old could happily survive on hot chips, chicken nuggets, and all sorts of junk treats all summer without a hint of a stomachache. But as soon as school starts, suddenly “my stomach hurts” becomes a daily refrain.
Rule 2: Preparation Is Key
Jackson also emphasizes the importance of her son organizing his outfit and gathering all the necessary items ahead of time for his back-to-school day. She humorously states that she’s not willing to risk the “slightest heart attack” trying to assemble everything at the last minute.
Rule 3: The Early Waking Up Mystery
The video also highlights the dilemma of kids claiming they can’t get up early for school after enjoying late summer nights. Jackson playfully informs her son that she’s not buying into the early morning struggle, especially when it’s quickly followed by inquiries about breakfast.
Rule 4: The Lost and Found
Jackson addresses the issue of school supplies mysteriously disappearing just days into back-to-school time. She hilariously points out that she recently spent a small fortune ensuring every item was covered and she isn’t willing to accept any more vanishing acts.
Rule 5: Lunchtime Dilemma
The final rule touches on the age-old struggle of children rejecting the nutritious lunches prepared by their parents. Jackson recalls how she took her son to the store to select every item, only for him to declare the packed school lunch as “trash” the next day.
Debunking 5 Common Misconceptions About Children With Autism
There are many myths surrounding autism, especially when it comes to children. Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that stems from a neurological difference, with characteristics that can greatly vary from one child to another. Throughout the years, these gaps of knowledge have given birth to a number of misconceptions ranging from everyday living to parenting and relationships for autistic children. Below you can learn more about the five most popular myths and what is the actual truth behind them.
1. Children With Autism Don’t Need Equipment to Help Them
Actually, they do. Almost all children with autism need supportive equipment to help them communicate and feel safe. It can also be vitally important to encourage social development as it helps children and their families access the community. Examples of assistive equipment include visual timers and sensory toys.
2. They Don’t Need to Play Like Other Children
Wrong. All kids need different types of sensory stimulation and toys to have fun, develop their imagination, and sharpen their skills. Autistic children are no different. You just have to find items that meet each kid’s special needs. There isn’t a universal toy or technology that would work for any child. Parents and family as a whole should test different toys and options to see which ones are most engaging to the child.
3. They Have to Go to a Special School for Kids With Autism
Although difficulties with social interaction, sensory sensitivity, and highly-focused interests are all common traits of children with autism, it’s not always necessary for them to enroll in a special school. Wherever possible, it’s actually advisable to integrate the kids into mainstream schools. This could help them develop their communication skills while also accommodating their schooling needs.
4. They Won’t Be Independent Adults
While autism affects each person differently, many children grow up to become independent adults — finding stable jobs and integrating within the community. It can be difficult for parents to imagine their child becoming an independent adult with autism, but there are plenty of examples that prove that autistic adults live full lives. Since people with autism love routine and repetitive behaviors, they often manage to reach a great level of independence.
5. They Can’t Form Relationships/Fall in Love
It’s possible, and it happens to many autistic people! Although autistic children tend to struggle with relationships and keep to themselves, many autistic adults fall in love, get married, and have families of their own. Much like anyone else, they just need time to grow, develop, and meet the right person.