How to behave with autism

I was just wondering on how to behave with a child with autism/aspergers. How do i tell other people to act with my son like family do i tell them not to treat him any different then a "normal" child or try to be patient and understand that certain things like being noisy are not his fault. Also how long do referalls to a peadeatrician take to ***** wether he has autism/aspergers.

[Jason C Bourret, Ph.D., BCBA-D]

There’s no “right” answer to this question and, while people have some experience with how to interact with a typically developing child, many don’t have much experience with children diagnosed with autism.  I’ve found that it can help just to be open and up front.  “This is my son, he’s a wonderful, sweet child, and he has autism.”  There’s nothing to be ashamed of, and there’s no reason to hide anything.  Let people meet him and get to know him, if you’re comfortable it will help them be comfortable also.