Well, I did the unthinkable. Something I know you've wanted to do, and maybe you've beat me to the punch.
Although my son is a high school junior, I sent an e-mail introducing him to every teacher. I told them, although they probably don't notice, he has Asperger's. I explained that he has a 504 plan, and that he is allowed extra time, and that all assignments need to be presented in writing - not a big deal, but, dear fellow parents, you know how our children slip through the cracks - particularly those who look and SEEM nuerotypical.
Almost every one of them sent me a very supportive response immediatley, and two teachers said they were reading his modifications as they responded (YIPPEE!). All said the first week went smoothly, he was well-mannered and they didn't forsee any problems. Every one of them said they would look out for him, and if he expressed concern or confusion to let them know immediately......
There you have it, gentle readers. My son may not be in the top 5% of the class (although he's pretty high up there and in the National Honor Society), but it is a shame to overlook him because he is not as fast as the others.
Don't forget to advocate for your child. Embrace the labels. The earlier you do, the sooner your child will surpass the limits of that label...
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
About the Boys
We encourage our sons, Tim and Carter, to participate in activities as well.
Tim, who has Asperger's is in the marching band. Band is a great activity for kids who are musically inclined. Because "Aspy" kids need a little help with social skills, participating in band automatically makes him a part of something larger - it's great for his image. Because the steps to the routines are black and white and very regimented he excells. He lugs a tuba during the routine, so during marching season, he gets a workout.
Carter plays the flute in the band. Although he is home schooled this year, the school district is allowing him to continue in band and take and elective, so he attends the junior high for the last two periods of the day. Carter is really shy, and with the tics brought on by Tourette's Syndrome, any chance to shine is welcome. The band, again, gives him a positive group to belong to. He is also joining Venture Scouts this semester, an arm of the Boy Scouts. The group focuses on paddling, so it gets him outdoors too.
Encourage your child to join something for the fun of it (but, of course, we know they'll be learning valuable skills along the way...)
Tim, who has Asperger's is in the marching band. Band is a great activity for kids who are musically inclined. Because "Aspy" kids need a little help with social skills, participating in band automatically makes him a part of something larger - it's great for his image. Because the steps to the routines are black and white and very regimented he excells. He lugs a tuba during the routine, so during marching season, he gets a workout.
Carter plays the flute in the band. Although he is home schooled this year, the school district is allowing him to continue in band and take and elective, so he attends the junior high for the last two periods of the day. Carter is really shy, and with the tics brought on by Tourette's Syndrome, any chance to shine is welcome. The band, again, gives him a positive group to belong to. He is also joining Venture Scouts this semester, an arm of the Boy Scouts. The group focuses on paddling, so it gets him outdoors too.
Encourage your child to join something for the fun of it (but, of course, we know they'll be learning valuable skills along the way...)
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