Babies Crying: A Sensory Challenge on the Spectrum

Taking my daughter out in public is usually a joy—she handles most situations with grace. But when a baby cries, things can get tough. For her, it’s not just a sound; it’s a sensory overload that she can’t easily process. Sometimes she says things out loud, things that might seem unkind or rude, about the crying baby. It’s not coming from a place of malice—she’s simply overwhelmed.

Recently, I came across a TikTok from Christine Romeo, whose daughter Abbey, a cast member of Love on the Spectrum, struggles with the same sensory issue. Seeing that video was like a deep breath for me. It reminded me that this isn’t just a personal struggle—it’s something other families face too. And in those moments, when I feel embarrassed or helpless, it’s comforting to know I’m not alone.

Managing these situations is a delicate dance. If we can, we leave the area quickly to prevent her from spiraling into a meltdown. But that’s not always possible. And honestly, it’s heartbreaking to feel like I need to shield her or apologize for something she can’t control.

This is just one of the many facets of life with autism that we navigate as a family. I try to hold onto the good days, the times when she surprises me with her resilience, and remember that even the tough moments teach us patience, compassion, and understanding—for her, for myself, and for the world around us.