The Michael Knowles Show Father REFUSES to Let Autism Define His Son – Emotional Interview with Leland Vittert
Nov 26, 2025
Leland Vittert, a journalist and author known for his work with NewsNation, shares his inspiring journey with autism in an emotional interview. He reflects on his father’s pivotal decision to challenge limiting labels instead of accepting them. Through innovative methods like role-playing and social skills training, Leland discusses how they defied expectations together. He emphasizes the importance of resilience and parental support, aiming to empower families navigating similar challenges. His memoir, Born Lucky, resonates with those seeking hope and understanding.
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Father Trained Social Skills By Role Play
- Leland Vittert's father refused to make the world adapt to Leland's autism and instead taught him social skills directly.
- His dad role-played conversations and tapped his watch to signal interruptions and then replayed interactions as learning moments.
Teach Interaction Patterns, Don't Expect Accommodation
- Do teach children the patterns of social interaction rather than expecting society to accommodate every difference.
- Use granular, practical training like role-play and feedback to build social competence over time.
Parental Agency Over Accommodations
- Leland's father never told teachers or therapists about the diagnosis and refused accommodations, shaping Leland's trajectory.
- This approach highlights parental agency as a decisive factor in a child's development, according to Leland.
