Reese, a 7-year-old son, happily entered the dojo.
Years of challenge, practice and planning.
It was easy for other families, but for us it was like breaking down a number of walls.
A new environment, a gathering of people, the ability to deal with intimidating sounds, anxiety about what’s happening.
My son, Reese, has autism.
But that doesn’t mean you can’t learn or experience things in your own way.
During the practice, Reese ran around the mat, stepped out of the mat, and repeatedly lay down in the middle of the other children.
I couldn’t do any judo skills, and I could hardly follow the instructions.
By the time I came here, I was told something like this.
“After a few years”
“I can’t do it for your son.”
“The guidance needed for this child is difficult here.”
These are all words heard while practicing other sports.
It made me feel that my boy had no place to live.
I was also wondering if I would be told that.
A judo teacher approached me and smiled.
“I don’t care what you do, please bring this child here.
It may take some time.
But please bring me. “
It was a word I had never heard before.
After replying, “OK, I’ll do it,” I held my breath and held back my happy tears.
Then, for weeks and months, Reese went to judo every week.
I will also be an assistant coach.
When I didn’t like Reese rolling on the mat, I put Reese on my back to help me with my strength training.
None of the teachers have had autism or need special assistance.
I just loved judo and was passionate about teaching children.
My son started to work with me.
The son is not sitting beside him, nor is he on the sidelines one-on-one.
My son has become a member here.
The teacher looked at my son, decided which child it was okay to pair with, and tried to pair with that child.
It wasn’t just his son Reese participating in the practice.
Other children will also be taught about boys who have different views of the world.
And it seems that he learned the importance of participating and finding ways to participate, and as a result, learning different abilities and being able to accept everyone.
Inclusive is touted in many places.
He declares that he will open the door for all his abilities.
However, many do not live up to such promises.
The judo hall here didn’t charge any extra fees and didn’t hire a dedicated person to deal with my son.
However, he taught me how to gather the hearts of all people with the sole purpose of learning judo.
I am really grateful.
Reese and I have only been learning judo for seven months.
How much will my boy grow up in a few years?
(Source / Image:British BRITISH JUDO）
If there is something in common that you can enjoy, there is no doubt that you will get along well as a result.
If “friendship” comes first, it’s just a form, and it’s rather difficult to get along.
First of all, I think the most important thing is to find something that you can enjoy.
When you cosplay, you can forget about obstacles and express yourself, and you can make friends.
(Charlie)
