Italian musician Elio, whose real name is Stefano, says parents of autistic children are often left to navigate diagnosis and support on their own. In an interview, he spoke about his son Dante, now 14, and the difficulties his family faced while seeking clear guidance after noticing differences in his development.
Elio said his wife first raised concerns about Dante’s behaviour. The family found it difficult to locate specialists who could provide a clear diagnosis and explain what to do next. He described the experience as one of profound uncertainty, saying there was no straightforward public service or protocol to guide parents. He added that support can depend on families’ ability to pay for private help, widening social inequalities.
The musician urged parents to seek advice early rather than wait, and argued that autistic children should be included in education and community life instead of separated from their peers. He said Dante had worked hard to learn everyday tasks, and that his son’s progress had required substantial support.
Elio will meet autism associations in Monza ahead of the Concertozzo, a music event scheduled there on May 26. He highlighted PizzAut, a restaurant initiative founded by Nico Acampora, the father of an autistic child, as an example of how work can support social connection and greater independence. Elio called for stronger public involvement and investment in research, saying families should not have to face the challenges alone.
The interview also touched on Elio e le Storie Tese’s music and comedy. The band is preparing a summer tour titled “Mi resta solo un dente e cerco di riavvitarlo.” Elio said making people laugh feels increasingly difficult, and expressed concern that fear of criticism on social media can discourage comic and artistic freedom.
He recalled the band’s appearance at the Sanremo Festival with “La terra dei cachi,” after which an investigation was opened into the contest result. Elio said he was proud to be questioned, while stressing that the group had gone to the festival to provoke and represent an audience like themselves.
Elio also remembered bandmate Feiez, who died after collapsing while performing. He said witnessing his friend’s death felt like losing a part of himself, and that the group’s life changed after the loss.
Sources: Corriere della Sera.