http://autismfamily.tumblr.com/post/62546682/autism-twitter-day-tuesday-dec-16th-pacific
http://autismfamiily.blogspot.com/
In the link are instructions on how to tag your Austism specific Tweet.
Also there is a contest, geared mostly toward young adults or children with Autism - prizes will be given!
Pass it on!!!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Mom, can you scatch my back?
I'm in the kitchen, making dinner and my son is sitting at the table doing his homework. From time to time, I pause to help him and check his progress. He's starting to lag a bit and he knows it. "Mom? I need a break. Can you scratch my back?" I walk over, he puts his head down on his arms and I give him a good, but brief back-scratch. Determination restored, he says "Thanks Mom" and continues with his work.
Some nights, after lights out - but I'm still up, I'll walk past his room and I'll hear a soft voice ask "Mom? Will you scratch my back to make me sleepy?" I walk in and he flops over onto his belly, all his numerous fleecy blankets in a jumbled nest around him. Sitting on the side of his bed, the soft glow of his nightlight barely illuminates a face so sweet and perfect. I begin to scratch his back and watch as his face relaxes even more toward sleep. Finishing, I tuck his blankets up around his shoulders the way he likes and start to walk softly out of his room...behind me I hear his soft voice "Thanks Mom. Love you."
I love you too bubby...more than you will ever know.
Some nights, after lights out - but I'm still up, I'll walk past his room and I'll hear a soft voice ask "Mom? Will you scratch my back to make me sleepy?" I walk in and he flops over onto his belly, all his numerous fleecy blankets in a jumbled nest around him. Sitting on the side of his bed, the soft glow of his nightlight barely illuminates a face so sweet and perfect. I begin to scratch his back and watch as his face relaxes even more toward sleep. Finishing, I tuck his blankets up around his shoulders the way he likes and start to walk softly out of his room...behind me I hear his soft voice "Thanks Mom. Love you."
I love you too bubby...more than you will ever know.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Empathy...Its Not Just For Neurotypicals
My son recently had his second quarter report card come home. In it, was this wonderful little note from his speech teacher:
'We have spent a great deal of time working on J's (social) language skills within the therapy setting. We have continued to increase J''s awareness of his listeners. He continues to understand and identify the "good listening skills" of his listeners so that he knows when they are listening to him. J has become increasingly more aware of his peers' and the signs they show when they are listening to him.
In his increased awareness of his peers, J has been verbalizing his displeasure with another student in our group. However, his is using excellent social language skills and he communicates his displeasure about her with me (his teacher). J tells me that he doesn't want to "hurt her (feelings)" so he doesn't verbalize what she is doing to bother him. We have been working on positive ways to communicate when he is bothered or upset in a nice way while being truthful. I am pleased with J's working on this and how much more aware of his peers he has become.'
That's my boy...that is my gentleman.
'We have spent a great deal of time working on J's (social) language skills within the therapy setting. We have continued to increase J''s awareness of his listeners. He continues to understand and identify the "good listening skills" of his listeners so that he knows when they are listening to him. J has become increasingly more aware of his peers' and the signs they show when they are listening to him.
In his increased awareness of his peers, J has been verbalizing his displeasure with another student in our group. However, his is using excellent social language skills and he communicates his displeasure about her with me (his teacher). J tells me that he doesn't want to "hurt her (feelings)" so he doesn't verbalize what she is doing to bother him. We have been working on positive ways to communicate when he is bothered or upset in a nice way while being truthful. I am pleased with J's working on this and how much more aware of his peers he has become.'
That's my boy...that is my gentleman.
Friday, November 14, 2008
New Dr. On Grey's Anatomy Is An Aspie?
I will be very interested in following this particular story arc. I'll be posting my reactions after the 3 episode story arc finishes.
In the meantime: http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2008/10/mary-mcdonnells.html
12am - Some quick initial reactions.
My son couldn't be more opposite in personality from the character of Dr. Dixon. Unlike Dr. Dixon...he is very outgoing socially, talkative and friendly. The character of Temperance Brennan on "Bones" could very well be a portrayal of an independent, highly successful adult with Aspergers...but even then, he doesn't quite fit that portrayal either. Goes to show, what how broad the spectrum is...you really can't nail down an exact portrayal of an individual with Aspergers. At best, you can only give an outline - the details of which are filled in by that individual and not by others.
Similarities? While he doesn't cling as rigidly as Dixon's character does to "Rules," he does rely on a clear definition of rules to navigate the course of his day/week/etc. That said...it doesn't stop him from lying, omitting or fudging the facts if he thinks he's about to get busted for something. :-) He certainly has intense interests - "fixate" (but I am attempting to focus on the postive in regards to this). We also encourage him to explore these interests (medieval history in particular) and are gradually expanding his reading material on the subject, as much as we can find that is geared toward his age level.
In the meantime: http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2008/10/mary-mcdonnells.html
12am - Some quick initial reactions.
My son couldn't be more opposite in personality from the character of Dr. Dixon. Unlike Dr. Dixon...he is very outgoing socially, talkative and friendly. The character of Temperance Brennan on "Bones" could very well be a portrayal of an independent, highly successful adult with Aspergers...but even then, he doesn't quite fit that portrayal either. Goes to show, what how broad the spectrum is...you really can't nail down an exact portrayal of an individual with Aspergers. At best, you can only give an outline - the details of which are filled in by that individual and not by others.
Similarities? While he doesn't cling as rigidly as Dixon's character does to "Rules," he does rely on a clear definition of rules to navigate the course of his day/week/etc. That said...it doesn't stop him from lying, omitting or fudging the facts if he thinks he's about to get busted for something. :-) He certainly has intense interests - "fixate" (but I am attempting to focus on the postive in regards to this). We also encourage him to explore these interests (medieval history in particular) and are gradually expanding his reading material on the subject, as much as we can find that is geared toward his age level.
New Dr. On Grey's Anatomy Is An Aspie?
I will be very interested in following this particular story arc. I'll be posting my reactions after the 3 episode story arc finishes.
In the meantime: http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2008/10/mary-mcdonnells.html
12am - Some quick initial reactions.
My son couldn't be more opposite in personality from the character of Dr. Dixon. Unlike Dr. Dixon...he is very outgoing socially, talkative and friendly. The character of Temperance Brennan on "Bones" could very well be a portrayal of an independent, highly successful adult with Aspergers...but even then, he doesn't quite fit that portrayal either. Goes to show, what how broad the spectrum is...you really can't nail down an exact portrayal of an individual with Aspergers. At best, you can only give an outline - the details of which are filled in by that individual and not by others.
Similarities? While he doesn't cling as rigidly as Dixon's character does to "Rules," he does rely on a clear definition of rules to navigate the course of his day/week/etc. That said...it doesn't stop him from lying, omitting or fudging the facts if he thinks he's about to get busted for something. :-) He certainly has intense interests - I refuse to use the term "fixate." We also encourage him to explore these interests (medieval history in particular) and are gradually expanding his reading material on the subject, as much as we can find that is geared toward his age level.
In the meantime: http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2008/10/mary-mcdonnells.html
My son couldn't be more opposite in personality from the character of Dr. Dixon. Unlike Dr. Dixon...he is very outgoing socially, talkative and friendly. The character of Temperance Brennan on "Bones" could very well be a portrayal of an independent, highly successful adult with Aspergers...but even then, he doesn't quite fit that portrayal either. Goes to show, what how broad the spectrum is...you really can't nail down an exact portrayal of an individual with Aspergers. At best, you can only give an outline - the details of which are filled in by that individual and not by others.
Similarities? While he doesn't cling as rigidly as Dixon's character does to "Rules," he does rely on a clear definition of rules to navigate the course of his day/week/etc. That said...it doesn't stop him from lying, omitting or fudging the facts if he thinks he's about to get busted for something. :-) He certainly has intense interests - I refuse to use the term "fixate." We also encourage him to explore these interests (medieval history in particular) and are gradually expanding his reading material on the subject, as much as we can find that is geared toward his age level.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Backward D Scale For Violin
My son is in his second year of violin. Because of his learning disabilities and Aspergers - he is behind his peers, just as with math and reading. However, as with his regular classwork, its not a matter of him not being able to learn - it's simply a matter of time and adjusting the teaching method to help him achieve the desired result. He is no less intelligent than his peers, but unlike them he has a few more obstacles on his path he must navigate around.
That said, at the age of 37...I seem to have found myself learning how to play the violin along with my son. During high school and college, I played clarinet...so it has been quite awhile since I actively touched any musical instrument. Yet, here I am reacquainting myself with notes, tempo, scale and how they apply to the violin. My oldest daughter, who has taken the violin a year longer than her brother, shows me the correct way to hold the violin. Being a 3/4 size, its a bit small and a tad awkward to hold. I also ask his teacher to double check that I am doing this correctly - she seems very excited and enthusiastic about my method of helping my son practice his violin.
So, during the day...while the kids are in school, I practice my scales from my son's book of beginning violin lessons. I give his current lesson a once over and later in the evening watch while he practices himself. Learning what he is learning helps me to better understand the particulars he has difficulty with. It may be his issues with his grip (which are related to his issues with muscle tone) are hindering his ability in moving fluidly from the A string to the D string. He also hates the way the chin rest must be placed and how his arms must be positioned...so that I am having to remind him not to keep them tucked down near his body. His biggest challenge,however, is maintaining the correct grip on the neck (which is to say very relaxed) and resist the urge to hold the violin by the body.
We stop before it becomes more frustrating than fun, taking some time to relax and come back to it later. He enjoys the violin and I want him to continue to do so. It is of no importance to him, that he is improving his skills in mathematics or strengthening the muscles of his fingers, hands and arms. All my son cares about is showing me how well he can play Hot Cross Buns...after which I look at him and say well done. I'm so proud of you!
That said, at the age of 37...I seem to have found myself learning how to play the violin along with my son. During high school and college, I played clarinet...so it has been quite awhile since I actively touched any musical instrument. Yet, here I am reacquainting myself with notes, tempo, scale and how they apply to the violin. My oldest daughter, who has taken the violin a year longer than her brother, shows me the correct way to hold the violin. Being a 3/4 size, its a bit small and a tad awkward to hold. I also ask his teacher to double check that I am doing this correctly - she seems very excited and enthusiastic about my method of helping my son practice his violin.
So, during the day...while the kids are in school, I practice my scales from my son's book of beginning violin lessons. I give his current lesson a once over and later in the evening watch while he practices himself. Learning what he is learning helps me to better understand the particulars he has difficulty with. It may be his issues with his grip (which are related to his issues with muscle tone) are hindering his ability in moving fluidly from the A string to the D string. He also hates the way the chin rest must be placed and how his arms must be positioned...so that I am having to remind him not to keep them tucked down near his body. His biggest challenge,however, is maintaining the correct grip on the neck (which is to say very relaxed) and resist the urge to hold the violin by the body.
We stop before it becomes more frustrating than fun, taking some time to relax and come back to it later. He enjoys the violin and I want him to continue to do so. It is of no importance to him, that he is improving his skills in mathematics or strengthening the muscles of his fingers, hands and arms. All my son cares about is showing me how well he can play Hot Cross Buns...after which I look at him and say well done. I'm so proud of you!
Backward D Scale For Violin
My son is in his second year of violin. Because of his learning disabilities and Aspergers - he is behind his peers, just as with math and reading. However, as with his regular classwork, its not a matter of him not being able to learn - it's simply a matter of time and adjusting the teaching method to help him achieve the desired result. He is no less intelligent than his peers, but unlike them he has a few more obstacles on his path he must navigate around.
That said, at the age of 37...I seem to have found myself learning how to play the violin along with my son. During high school and college, I played clarinet...so it has been quite awhile since I actively touched any musical instrument. Yet, here I am reacquainting myself with notes, tempo, scale and how they apply to the violin. My oldest daughter, who has taken the violin a year longer than her brother, shows me the correct way to hold the violin. Being a 3/4 size, its a bit small and a tad awkward to hold. I also ask his teacher to double check that I am doing this correctly - she seems very excited and enthusiastic about my method of helping my son practice his violin.
So, during the day...while the kids are in school, I practice my scales from my son's book of beginning violin lessons. I give his current lesson a once over and later in the evening watch while he practices himself. Learning what he is learning helps me to better understand the particulars he has difficulty with. It may be his issues with his grip (which are related to his issues with muscle tone) are hindering his ability in moving fluidly from the A string to the D string. He also hates the way the chin rest must be placed and how his arms must be positioned...so that I am having to remind him not to keep them tucked down near his body. His biggest challenge,however, is maintaining the correct grip on the neck (which is to say very relaxed) and resist the urge to hold the violin by the body.
We stop before it becomes more frustrating than fun, taking some time to relax and come back to it later. He enjoys the violin and I want him to continue to do so. It is of no importance to him, that he is improving his skills in mathematics or strengthening the muscles of his fingers, hands and arms. All my son cares about is showing me how well he can play Hot Cross Buns...after which I look at him and say well done. I'm so proud of you!
That said, at the age of 37...I seem to have found myself learning how to play the violin along with my son. During high school and college, I played clarinet...so it has been quite awhile since I actively touched any musical instrument. Yet, here I am reacquainting myself with notes, tempo, scale and how they apply to the violin. My oldest daughter, who has taken the violin a year longer than her brother, shows me the correct way to hold the violin. Being a 3/4 size, its a bit small and a tad awkward to hold. I also ask his teacher to double check that I am doing this correctly - she seems very excited and enthusiastic about my method of helping my son practice his violin.
So, during the day...while the kids are in school, I practice my scales from my son's book of beginning violin lessons. I give his current lesson a once over and later in the evening watch while he practices himself. Learning what he is learning helps me to better understand the particulars he has difficulty with. It may be his issues with his grip (which are related to his issues with muscle tone) are hindering his ability in moving fluidly from the A string to the D string. He also hates the way the chin rest must be placed and how his arms must be positioned...so that I am having to remind him not to keep them tucked down near his body. His biggest challenge,however, is maintaining the correct grip on the neck (which is to say very relaxed) and resist the urge to hold the violin by the body.
We stop before it becomes more frustrating than fun, taking some time to relax and come back to it later. He enjoys the violin and I want him to continue to do so. It is of no importance to him, that he is improving his skills in mathematics or strengthening the muscles of his fingers, hands and arms. All my son cares about is showing me how well he can play Hot Cross Buns...after which I look at him and say well done. I'm so proud of you!
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Autism Myths
A very good site, worth checking out / sharing and bookmarking.
http://autism-myths.org/
http://autism-myths.org/
Autism Myths
A very good site, worth checking out / sharing and bookmarking.
http://autism-myths.org/
http://autism-myths.org/
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Friday, October 10, 2008
Lego Indiana Jones
Tonight...was a very good night. Apparently, I am now taking karate as well! Parents who opt to stay in the "dojo" with the kids, must also participate in the lesson. I am proud to say...I was able to do the jump from the kneeling position to up on my feet on my first try! Needless to say, the kids (all the kids) got a kick out of watching us Moms and Dads do THAT.
Later, I made the kids their favorite meal upon request (a Friday tradition). Tonight, it was cheeseburgers and salad. Yes, my kids LOVE salad...one of the few green things I can get in two out of three of them. My son especially loves salad when it has bacon bits on it (whatever gets the green stuff in...).
Afterwards, we all settled down to watch the first Pirates of the Caribbean movie. I tuned in and out while playing my son's Indiana Jones Lego game on his DS. A couple of times, I got stuck on what to do next. My son, with lots of "Oh Mom...Here, let me help you...." showed me how to complete my task and advance to the next level (I have my own spot to save my game and he has his LOL).
I know not all parents are fan of kids and video games...but for my son, it has been a help on so many levels. It has encouraged him to expand his conversation skills (not in just helping dopey Mom through an obviously "easy" level...but also in describing the game itself in a conversational sense). Video game play also has helped him develop his ability to forsee consequences to his actions, plan strategy to achieve a desired outcome and...lose gracefully.
With Autism, just like things of high calorie content...our philosophy is most things in moderation. That said...I'm going to kick his butt once we get Lego Batman. :-)
Later, I made the kids their favorite meal upon request (a Friday tradition). Tonight, it was cheeseburgers and salad. Yes, my kids LOVE salad...one of the few green things I can get in two out of three of them. My son especially loves salad when it has bacon bits on it (whatever gets the green stuff in...).
Afterwards, we all settled down to watch the first Pirates of the Caribbean movie. I tuned in and out while playing my son's Indiana Jones Lego game on his DS. A couple of times, I got stuck on what to do next. My son, with lots of "Oh Mom...Here, let me help you...." showed me how to complete my task and advance to the next level (I have my own spot to save my game and he has his LOL).
I know not all parents are fan of kids and video games...but for my son, it has been a help on so many levels. It has encouraged him to expand his conversation skills (not in just helping dopey Mom through an obviously "easy" level...but also in describing the game itself in a conversational sense). Video game play also has helped him develop his ability to forsee consequences to his actions, plan strategy to achieve a desired outcome and...lose gracefully.
With Autism, just like things of high calorie content...our philosophy is most things in moderation. That said...I'm going to kick his butt once we get Lego Batman. :-)
Lego Indiana Jones
Tonight...was a very good night. Apparently, I am now taking karate as well! Parents who opt to stay in the "dojo" with the kids, must also participate in the lesson. I am proud to say...I was able to do the jump from the kneeling position to up on my feet on my first try! Needless to say, the kids (all the kids) got a kick out of watching us Moms and Dads do THAT.
Later, I made the kids their favorite meal upon request (a Friday tradition). Tonight, it was cheeseburgers and salad. Yes, my kids LOVE salad...one of the few green things I can get in two out of three of them. My son especially loves salad when it has bacon bits on it (whatever gets the green stuff in...).
Afterwards, we all settled down to watch the first Pirates of the Caribbean movie. I tuned in and out while playing my son's Indiana Jones Lego game on his DS. A couple of times, I got stuck on what to do next. My son, with lots of "Oh Mom...Here, let me help you...." showed me how to complete my task and advance to the next level (I have my own spot to save my game and he has his LOL).
I know not all parents are fan of kids and video games...but for my son, it has been a help on so many levels. It has encouraged him to expand his conversation skills (not in just helping dopey Mom through an obviously "easy" level...but also in describing the game itself in a conversational sense). Video game play also has helped him develop his ability to forsee consequences to his actions, plan strategy to achieve a desired outcome and...lose gracefully.
With Autism, just like things of high calorie content...our philosophy is most things in moderation. That said...I'm going to kick his butt once we get Lego Batman. :-)
Later, I made the kids their favorite meal upon request (a Friday tradition). Tonight, it was cheeseburgers and salad. Yes, my kids LOVE salad...one of the few green things I can get in two out of three of them. My son especially loves salad when it has bacon bits on it (whatever gets the green stuff in...).
Afterwards, we all settled down to watch the first Pirates of the Caribbean movie. I tuned in and out while playing my son's Indiana Jones Lego game on his DS. A couple of times, I got stuck on what to do next. My son, with lots of "Oh Mom...Here, let me help you...." showed me how to complete my task and advance to the next level (I have my own spot to save my game and he has his LOL).
I know not all parents are fan of kids and video games...but for my son, it has been a help on so many levels. It has encouraged him to expand his conversation skills (not in just helping dopey Mom through an obviously "easy" level...but also in describing the game itself in a conversational sense). Video game play also has helped him develop his ability to forsee consequences to his actions, plan strategy to achieve a desired outcome and...lose gracefully.
With Autism, just like things of high calorie content...our philosophy is most things in moderation. That said...I'm going to kick his butt once we get Lego Batman. :-)
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Yes Sensei!
Our first karate lesson WITHOUT a one on one was yesterday and went very well. He worked very hard at staying focused on what Sensei was teaching the class and as he put it "I'm being serious." It showed! Two years ago, we wouldn't have seen this level of focus from him...it is a testament to all the hard work on his part, his teachers and the one on ones at the YMCA. That said...once it was over, I let him flap and talk about Spongebob to his hearts content. He earned it.
Yes Sensei!
Our first karate lesson WITHOUT a one on one was yesterday and went very well. He worked very hard at staying focused on what Sensei was teaching the class and as he put it "I'm being serious." It showed! Two years ago, we wouldn't have seen this level of focus from him...it is a testament to all the hard work on his part, his teachers and the one on ones at the YMCA. That said...once it was over, I let him flap and talk about Spongebob to his hearts content. He earned it.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
A Punch On The Nose
Today was a hard day for me. I have a severely autistc boy in my am/pm school age program. He makes my son look like Mr. Perfectly Well Adjusted. A few times he has gotten upset and has slapped out at me or tried to hit me, but we were always able to deflect him or divert him. Well, today, he caught me totally off guard and hauled off and punched me in the nose! I wasn't hurt badly, he's 7 after all...but my son was flipping out. I was more bothered by the idea that my son thought I was hurt, than being hurt. But it really brings home, what a dice game Autism is...here is my son, so on the edge of "normal..." and then there is this boy, who is locked inside his brain...unable to process correctly, the world around him. That hurt more than the punch on the nose.
A Punch On The Nose
Today was a hard day for me. I have a severely autistc boy in my am/pm school age program. He makes my son look like Mr. Perfectly Well Adjusted. A few times he has gotten upset and has slapped out at me or tried to hit me, but we were always able to deflect him or divert him. Well, today, he caught me totally off guard and hauled off and punched me in the nose! I wasn't hurt badly, he's 7 after all...but my son was flipping out. I was more bothered by the idea that my son thought I was hurt, than being hurt. But it really brings home, what a dice game Autism is...here is my son, so on the edge of "normal..." and then there is this boy, who is locked inside his brain...unable to process correctly, the world around him. That hurt more than the punch on the nose.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Back To School....
Here we are, wrapping up the end of a 2nd week back at school. My son's new teacher came up to me on Monday before the dismissal bell rang. My initial reaction was to prepare myself to listen to an account of a difficult moment for my son, at some point during the day. Instead, with a huge smile, she wanted to let me know that he had already exceeded his reading goal for the year! His teacher was so proud and happy for him, her joy so genuine! These are the moments he workes so hard toward. It is also these little successes that make all of it worthwhile as a parent.
Back To School....
Here we are, wrapping up the end of a 2nd week back at school. My son's new teacher came up to me on Monday before the dismissal bell rang. My initial reaction was to prepare myself to listen to an account of a difficult moment for my son, at some point during the day. Instead, with a huge smile, she wanted to let me know that he had already exceeded his reading goal for the year! His teacher was so proud and happy for him, her joy so genuine! These are the moments he workes so hard toward. It is also these little successes that make all of it worthwhile as a parent.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
What My Son Likes...
Knights - anything medieval, Spongebob, Indiana Jones, reading, his DS, ice cream, swimming, his fuzzy red plaid blanket, his fuzzy green dinosaur blankets (the big and the small one), his sock monkey pajamas, t-shirts of all sorts, his trusty water bottle, his dark blue walls, Star Wars, Lord of the Ring (particularly "Return of the King), pizza, popcorn, grapes, cheesy tuna casserole, MacDonalds, my cheeseburgers, corn on the cob w/ lots of butter, castles, karate, hugs, getting his back scratched, The Princess Bride, Police (his grandpa is a sheriff), the Army (which Daddy is in), dominoes, the game Sorry, the Star Wars Indiana Jones Lego games for the computer/DS, playing with his sisters, playing w/ his two best friends, apple picking in the fall, writing in his diary (Yes, he started his own diary!!!), school, violin, going to the zoo....I could go on...
What My Son Likes...
Knights - anything medieval, Spongebob, Indiana Jones, reading, his DS, ice cream, swimming, his fuzzy red plaid blanket, his fuzzy green dinosaur blankets (the big and the small one), his sock monkey pajamas, t-shirts of all sorts, his trusty water bottle, his dark blue walls, Star Wars, Lord of the Ring (particularly "Return of the King), pizza, popcorn, grapes, cheesy tuna casserole, MacDonalds, my cheeseburgers, corn on the cob w/ lots of butter, castles, karate, hugs, getting his back scratched, The Princess Bride, Police (his grandpa is a sheriff), the Army (which Daddy is in), dominoes, the game Sorry, the Star Wars Indiana Jones Lego games for the computer/DS, playing with his sisters, playing w/ his two best friends, apple picking in the fall, writing in his diary (Yes, he started his own diary!!!), school, violin, going to the zoo....I could go on...
Summer's Ending...
This is the last week for my son's summer school. Each summer, since 2005 he has attended this program. There he receives OT, Speech and instruction to maintain the skills he learned the previous year. I can't say enough good about the program - they not only teach these children, but they make it as fun an experience as they can. The program is much like a modified summer camp, with swimming trips 4 days a week and several field trips all around the area. Each day he comes home, happy and bursting with stories about his day. Having fun, while learning, has been significant a factor in his continued development. He has two years left in elementary school, after that he will move on to middle school. I have little idea of what to expect - it truly is one day at a time...one foot in front of the other. However, I am hopeful, that school will continue to be a positive experience for him - that he will have many days of coming home with smiles and stories of how he spent his day.
Summer's Ending...
This is the last week for my son's summer school. Each summer, since 2005 he has attended this program. There he receives OT, Speech and instruction to maintain the skills he learned the previous year. I can't say enough good about the program - they not only teach these children, but they make it as fun an experience as they can. The program is much like a modified summer camp, with swimming trips 4 days a week and several field trips all around the area. Each day he comes home, happy and bursting with stories about his day. Having fun, while learning, has been significant a factor in his continued development. He has two years left in elementary school, after that he will move on to middle school. I have little idea of what to expect - it truly is one day at a time...one foot in front of the other. However, I am hopeful, that school will continue to be a positive experience for him - that he will have many days of coming home with smiles and stories of how he spent his day.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Like Mom, Like Dad...
With studies researching a possible genetic link to Autism Spectrum Disorders...I wonder at how many parents of such individuals, exhibit traits that fall within the spectrum? I'm not referring to individuals who have been clearly diagnosed as being somewhere on the spectrum...but those who have not. Can you see any traits in yourself? If so, what are they?
Like Mom, Like Dad...
With studies researching a possible genetic link to Autism Spectrum Disorders...I wonder at how many parents of such individuals, exhibit traits that fall within the spectrum? I'm not referring to individuals who have been clearly diagnosed as being somewhere on the spectrum...but those who have not. Can you see any traits in yourself? If so, what are they?
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Trying My Patience
Since I am temporarily doing this "single parent" thing, while my husband is away for training via the Army...I am discovering new levels of patience, or trying to at least. Sometimes its over something as little as a request to do something - its easy to take for granted, the ability to perform a series of sequential steps...something we may do everyday without thinking. However, for my son, this can cause him to pause in confusion, or even stop midway through the task...wandering away, the request forgotten, the task incomplete. Patiently, I repeat my request or the instructions...but sometimes, after a number of repetitions...I find my patience dwindling and my stress levels rising. Not all children with Aspergers are unable to read body language or decipher complex emotional states. My son is quickly able to pick up on my frustration and in turn, becomes anxious...trying even harder to master the request. It is then, that I stop...take that deep breath, get a drink of water or simply stop and gather him up in a hug. We wait until we are both relaxed and together finish what we began.
Trying My Patience
Since I am temporarily doing this "single parent" thing, while my husband is away for training via the Army...I am discovering new levels of patience, or trying to at least. Sometimes its over something as little as a request to do something - its easy to take for granted, the ability to perform a series of sequential steps...something we may do everyday without thinking. However, for my son, this can cause him to pause in confusion, or even stop midway through the task...wandering away, the request forgotten, the task incomplete. Patiently, I repeat my request or the instructions...but sometimes, after a number of repetitions...I find my patience dwindling and my stress levels rising. Not all children with Aspergers are unable to read body language or decipher complex emotional states. My son is quickly able to pick up on my frustration and in turn, becomes anxious...trying even harder to master the request. It is then, that I stop...take that deep breath, get a drink of water or simply stop and gather him up in a hug. We wait until we are both relaxed and together finish what we began.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
The Best Big Brother EVER
Once again, my son takes on the stereotypes of Autism. Tonight, the youngest is freaking out over bedtime...every other minute - with much snotty crying and wailing, she calls out for some new need in order to put off bedtime. The most recent was a beg for Daddy to give her yet another hug/kiss/cuddle. My son (the one with Aspergers), quietly pads down the hall and peeks into his little sisters room. Very quietly, I hear him say "I'll give you a hug and kiss goodnight. I'll cuddle you." My heart was about to burst...
The Best Big Brother EVER
Once again, my son takes on the stereotypes of Autism. Tonight, the youngest is freaking out over bedtime...every other minute - with much snotty crying and wailing, she calls out for some new need in order to put off bedtime. The most recent was a beg for Daddy to give her yet another hug/kiss/cuddle. My son (the one with Aspergers), quietly pads down the hall and peeks into his little sisters room. Very quietly, I hear him say "I'll give you a hug and kiss goodnight. I'll cuddle you." My heart was about to burst...
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Asperger's is not a barrier...
My son proves this to me every day! The other day, he had his first orchestra concert...and it made me proud to hear him squeak and squak his way through "Hot Cross Buns" along with the rest of his grade!!!
Asperger's is not a barrier...
My son proves this to me every day! The other day, he had his first orchestra concert...and it made me proud to hear him squeak and squak his way through "Hot Cross Buns" along with the rest of his grade!!!
Friday, February 1, 2008
Great and wonderful news!
| My son had his first independent (outside school) evaluation since kindergarten yesterday. We felt that he has been showing such good progress in his academic and personal development, that one was warrented. The doctor met with him for almost 2 hours - chatting with us, asking detailed questions...but mostly visiting with my son. He decided to move him up the Autism spectrum, from high functioning Autism/PDD-NOS to a new diagnosis of Aspergers. Isn't it funny? This is a label, that no parent wants for their child...yet made us so happy! The doctor feels that with continued services through school and the social/fitness programs we keep him involved with at the YMCA (What would I do without them?)...that by the time he is in his mid-teens, it will be very hard to tell he is even on the spectrum at all. In addition, he fully expects him to lead a NORMAL LIFE...college, holding a job, living independantly, marriage and all that life has to offer! He is simply amazing to me! Despite the challenges the genetic dice rolled him. Never, ever have I felt guilty for vaccinating him. Nor do I believe that is a cause of the majority of austim cases...an entirely different topic, for another day. He continues to persevere and overcome every obstacle that has come his way. I would never change him or this experience if I were able...it has taught me patience, creativity in parenting and humor in unexpected - and some might not always think appropriate places (...but hey, if you can't laugh at it, you cry...and which would you rather do?). So, if I may brag a bit...YEA BUBBY!!! |
Great and wonderful news!
| My son had his first independent (outside school) evaluation since kindergarten yesterday. We felt that he has been showing such good progress in his academic and personal development, that one was warrented. The doctor met with him for almost 2 hours - chatting with us, asking detailed questions...but mostly visiting with my son. He decided to move him up the Autism spectrum, from high functioning Autism/PDD-NOS to a new diagnosis of Aspergers. Isn't it funny? This is a label, that no parent wants for their child...yet made us so happy! The doctor feels that with continued services through school and the social/fitness programs we keep him involved with at the YMCA (What would I do without them?)...that by the time he is in his mid-teens, it will be very hard to tell he is even on the spectrum at all. In addition, he fully expects him to lead a NORMAL LIFE...college, holding a job, living independantly, marriage and all that life has to offer! He is simply amazing to me! Despite the challenges the genetic dice rolled him. Never, ever have I felt guilty for vaccinating him. Nor do I believe that is a cause of the majority of austim cases...an entirely different topic, for another day. He continues to persevere and overcome every obstacle that has come his way. I would never change him or this experience if I were able...it has taught me patience, creativity in parenting and humor in unexpected - and some might not always think appropriate places (...but hey, if you can't laugh at it, you cry...and which would you rather do?). So, if I may brag a bit...YEA BUBBY!!! |
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
"Fixating" Update...
At the end of the school day, yesterday, I checked with my son's teacher to see how the cough drops idea went. It took his mind off of coughing, yes indeedy...he went from fixating on his cough, to fixating on how "spicy" the HONEY flavored cough drops were (I did try one btw...syrupy sweet is to put it mildly). So to get his mind off of the cough drops, the teacher resorted to giving him a Life Saver - which stopped the fixating on the cough and the "spicy" cough drop Mommy gave him. Now my son is asking for those yummy Life Saver "cough drops" his teacher gave him..."cough, cough...Can you get some Mom? Please? Cough, cough..."
"Fixating" Update...
At the end of the school day, yesterday, I checked with my son's teacher to see how the cough drops idea went. It took his mind off of coughing, yes indeedy...he went from fixating on his cough, to fixating on how "spicy" the HONEY flavored cough drops were (I did try one btw...syrupy sweet is to put it mildly). So to get his mind off of the cough drops, the teacher resorted to giving him a Life Saver - which stopped the fixating on the cough and the "spicy" cough drop Mommy gave him. Now my son is asking for those yummy Life Saver "cough drops" his teacher gave him..."cough, cough...Can you get some Mom? Please? Cough, cough..."
Monday, January 28, 2008
He's fixating on what?
Just got a call from my son's Sp. Ed. teacher - quick sum up: he's a high functioning Autistic 8 year old. He's in an inclusion 3rd grade and goes out for additional support in Math/Eng./Speech and OT. Anyhoo, she calls and tells me that he is fixating on this cough he's had for the past couple of days. Normally, I'd think "Well, maybe he is really coughing." Then she described how he was coughing and I knew that she was correct (as I have seen him do the same at home occ.). The teacher asked me what advice I could give her to help him move beyond the fixation and I told her I would be there in a few minutes with some honey cough drops - hopefully, the "medicine" and the act of sucking on the cough drop, will make him forget to "cough." I have to laugh, some of the things he gets focused on can be irritating - but for the most part, they are funny in what catches his attention. Mostly, when he fixates or "stims" its ususally a variation on sword fighting, like a light saber duel (complete with sound effects). I know so many parents, whose children are more affected by Autisim - I really do have to count my blessings. Still there are some days, my patience is severely tested and others...well, sometimes you just need a good light jedi light saber duel to let off some steam.
He's fixating on what?
Just got a call from my son's Sp. Ed. teacher - quick sum up: he's a high functioning Autistic 8 year old. He's in an inclusion 3rd grade and goes out for additional support in Math/Eng./Speech and OT. Anyhoo, she calls and tells me that he is fixating on this cough he's had for the past couple of days. Normally, I'd think "Well, maybe he is really coughing." Then she described how he was coughing and I knew that she was correct (as I have seen him do the same at home occ.). The teacher asked me what advice I could give her to help him move beyond the fixation and I told her I would be there in a few minutes with some honey cough drops - hopefully, the "medicine" and the act of sucking on the cough drop, will make him forget to "cough." I have to laugh, some of the things he gets focused on can be irritating - but for the most part, they are funny in what catches his attention. Mostly, when he fixates or "stims" its ususally a variation on sword fighting, like a light saber duel (complete with sound effects). I know so many parents, whose children are more affected by Autisim - I really do have to count my blessings. Still there are some days, my patience is severely tested and others...well, sometimes you just need a good light jedi light saber duel to let off some steam.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
My Husband's Re-enlistment
Just around Christmas, my husband re-enlisted and was sworn into the Army National Guard. I don't have words to express how proud I am of him. He made a very difficult decision, in the midst of very difficult and uncertain times. That, my friends, takes guts. In the not too distant future, he will be leaving us for about 11 months for training state-side. This is the step to the career change he has been dreaming about for a long time. It hasn't quite hit me yet, how things will be once he is away. I doubt it will until he's gone and I find myself home alone with the kids - doing the job of two parents instead of one. Its going to suck, but like him, I have to look at the long term benefit that will result. How the Moms and Dads of spouses overseas for longer periods cope is amazing - they are heroes too. My thanks goes out to those that give the most for our country...and I am proud to be the wife of one such individual.
My Husband's Re-enlistment
Just around Christmas, my husband re-enlisted and was sworn into the Army National Guard. I don't have words to express how proud I am of him. He made a very difficult decision, in the midst of very difficult and uncertain times. That, my friends, takes guts. In the not too distant future, he will be leaving us for about 11 months for training state-side. This is the step to the career change he has been dreaming about for a long time. It hasn't quite hit me yet, how things will be once he is away. I doubt it will until he's gone and I find myself home alone with the kids - doing the job of two parents instead of one. Its going to suck, but like him, I have to look at the long term benefit that will result. How the Moms and Dads of spouses overseas for longer periods cope is amazing - they are heroes too. My thanks goes out to those that give the most for our country...and I am proud to be the wife of one such individual.
Mountain Goat Stare Down
Took the kids to the zoo - yes, even in the dead of winter. It was a lot of fun, the animals are really active. We saw these two were having a show down for the top spot on the hill...we waited for a bit, sure we were going to get the full display...but no such luck.
Mountain Goat Stare Down
Took the kids to the zoo - yes, even in the dead of winter. It was a lot of fun, the animals are really active. We saw these two were having a show down for the top spot on the hill...we waited for a bit, sure we were going to get the full display...but no such luck.
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