[doganjo]

but it's not always easy if you're out.

If you can carry plastic cups for toddlers you can do the same for autistic children.  In my opinion this mother was trying to hide her head in the sand about her child's disability.  She SHOULD have brought a plastic cup and if she had forgotten, asked for one, in fact the child should NOT have been near the animal area anyway without permission.  I am sure James and Kenny would have been happy to provide a plastic cup if asked.  In my opinion, James acted quite correctly, his animals were in danger, I'd have reacted the same - even with my own grandchildren. 

[Touchwood]

Hi James,

I've worked "front line" in mental health/learning difficultity field most of my working life and know how difficult it can be, especially for the parents. However I can totally understand your reaction and would more than likely reacted the same way. I cannot understand why he would be allowed to have a glass and be at risk to himself as well as others.
I would be the first to argue that "everyone" regardless of ability has the right to live as normal a life as possible, but with that right comes responsibilities to other members of the community, unfortunately from experience I have found that is seldom the case. 

[jameslindsay]

Thanks Annie, I agree 100%.