I am nonverbal and have autism! I first became aware of this when I was ten years old!  My parents knew about this several years before then!  While I knew I was different before then, I did not know actually what was wrong with me before then!  I often wished that I could be like everyone else!  The most frustrating part of being autistic is that I cannot talk!  Many times I have wanted to say something but could not!  Even today, if I am riding in the car and can’t get to my iPad, I am stuck!  Please include us with autism and be patient with us.  We so want to be part of your world!