A dad whose two sons are autistic and non-speaking has recounted the first time one of his boys communicated with him via text message, which really caught him off guard.
James, who is dad to Tommy and Jude, opened up about life with two neurodivergent children on the CBeebies Parenting Helpline podcast, where he spoke to presenters Charlie Hedges and Holly Hagan.
James and his ex-wife Charlotte co-parent their sons separately due to their complex and individual needs, and James shares their journey on social media under the handle Stories About Autism. He has amassed hundreds of thousands of followers across TikTok and Instagram and is often praised for shedding a light on and giving a voice to families that are often forgotten.
During the conversation, James spoke about how one of their sons, Tommy, communicates with him via an app with pictures. However, this evolved into him learning to text, which the dad said really shocked him when Tommy messaged him for the first time.
He told Holly and Charlie: ‘In recent years, he’s figured out how to type just using the keyboard. But now he, yeah, he uses text messaging.
‘His first text was, was “hello dad”.’ He told the hosts that the message was so surprising and he couldn’t believe it. But sonce then they have had many more conversations.
‘I was like, “Tommy?, what’s going on?” I had no idea this was happening. And then, yeah, we talk about Mickey Mouse cause that’s what he loves.’
The proud dad continued: ‘So it’s been going on a couple of months now and he’s developed into asking about my day. Lots of I love you. I miss you.
‘And lots of GIFS. He’s become good at sending GIFS.’
Fans praised the dad on Instagram for his candid words, which resonated with so many. ‘Love this James! It’s all about those little wins, when my son was finally able to switch on the electric toothbrush by himself I was so proud!’ one person said.
Another added: ‘Love that the families with neuroaffirming attitudes are getting their voices heard’.
