An adult autistic perspective on growing up on the Autism Spectrum.

pica.mp3

As a child, I can distinctly remember my mother constantly telling me to, “Get that out of your mouth.”  From chewing on my hair, rubber bands, straws, plastic lids, pieces of wood, and toy blocks. Actually, that is a very short list. 

My favorite was wood.  By the time I was three, I had completely chewed my way out of my wood crib, to my mother’s dismay.  This was about the time I started sleeping under furniture and in closets.  I was difficult to keep track of. 

I still have a thing for chewing on pens and for chewing straws inside out.  I have never really noticed the soreness of my mouth until after I have lost my fascination with chewing on an object. 

I try to keep sunflower or pumpkin seeds on hand.  I still chew on pencils if I am using one and since I have improved on my typing, I typically use a computer when ever possible or a pen.