A friend of mine sent me these little cards that Mia can give to people in exchange for her trick or treat candy. The cards let adults know that she has Autism and is not yet able to say thank you but to please accept the note as a token of her appreciation for the candy.

I'm so excited to see her hand these cards out. When I see her interacting with others, I know she is making huge strides. In fact, I wish I had these cards for real life situations too. I wish Mia could hand these out to everyone in the grocery store, at a party, or school.

I'm still learning how to be comfortable in public with Mia's Autism. She doesn't embarass me, in fact she is a very well behaved girl. When people talk to her directly I know that they are expecting her to answer. I would never want someone to think my daughter just hasn't been taught manners. I love it when people talk with her, I wish she could reply. I'll usually say "I'm sorry she isn't being rude, she has Autism and can't talk yet". Inevitably the stranger doesn't know how to respond and I feel like I have "over shared".

The cards aren't practical for everyday, but I'm relieved that I'll be saved from that conversation every time we knock on a door this year.