EPISODE 27
The Wisdom of Fathers (Autistic and Neurotypical)
The Wisdom of Fathers (Autistic and Neurotypical)
Play the Episode…
…and Continue the Discussion
Do you have a book or podcast club? If so, you may use this discussion guide to facilitate a conversation about this episode.
1) Given the differences in ages of their sons, the different eras in which they raised their sons, and that Bob is a neurotypical father and David is an autistic father, what differences are most striking to you about their experiences?
2) Bob and David both provide advice for raising an autistic family member. What was most meaningful to you about the advice they share. Do you agree with all they recommend, and how do their recommendations connect, if at all, with your experience?
3) Bob and David conclude by expressing appreciation for their sons. What do they say they appreciate the most? Please discuss in reference to your personal experiences.
Featuring
BOB JONES
Bob Jones is a retired clinical social worker and the father of a 32 year old son with autism. Along with his wife lauren, he founded and led the construction of a small residential community for adults with autism in Orleans, Ma.
“Autism has influenced almost every aspect of my life’s journey.”
DAVID LAFRENZ
David LaFrenz is an autistic man raising his autistic child with their other parent who also happens to be autistic. Not learning he was autistic until adulthood, David embraces his unique neurology and is passionate about helping the autistic community thrive through his self-advocacy and unrelenting commitment to education and service. He loves to bowl, following his favorite college basketball team the Kansas Jayhawks, and growing in his spirituality and presence in the world.
“I have an uncanny ability to name actors and their roles on TV shows from the past and I am able to toss popcorn or other small food items up in the air and catch them in my mouth with very high accuracy.
My family’s autism teaches me how essential it is to embrace and accept everyone for who they are, not who we want them to be. It shows me how to be more loving of myself and others knowing all kinds of minds are valid and worthy of acceptance.”
Show Notes
In commemoration of Father’s Day, we have a discussion with Bob Jones and David LaFrenz. Bob is the father of a 32 year old autistic son, who has been severely impacted by his disability, and needs ongoing support. Bob is a Psychiatric Social Worker and Co-Founder of Cape Cod Village, a residential community-based community that provides support for autistic adults. David is an autistic adult who works as motor vehicle license evaluator in California and has a 15 year old son on the spectrum. Bob and David discuss their journeys as fathers, all they have learned from their sons and the advice they share for fathers and families.