He doesn't look autistic . . .

[Guest guest]

Hi,

I need help responding to family, friends and acquaintances when I tell them

that my son has AS/HFA and they reply with, " He doesn't look like he's autistic.

He smiles, laughs and has so much personality. How can he have autism? " Ugh!

I immediately feel defensive and feel the need to explain the spectrum, but

honestly, I don't always want to get into all the details and would rather have

a quick, one-line response. A lot of sarcastic responses have crossed my mind,

but that wouldn't be very helpful. :-) How have you guys handled this?

Thanks,