I don't think Temple Grandin works with kids so much as offers insight to parents based on her (rather amazing) experience. Some of her talks are about cows and some about the human brain. P once went to one of the latter (perhaps hoping for insights for her ADHD son) and was struck by the attitude I mentioned.
Following the talk, an audience member asked something about her brother, who "can't even go to the grocery store". Temple's response was basically, "Yes he can! It may be excruciatingly unpleasant, but he has to learn to live in this world and do things for himself." P was struck by how insistent Temple was on this point.
Then again, the alternative is so disempowering. That may explain her strong response.
