Hi and welcome to this week’s blog post which is a great article about The Education System by Matthew Readman (a talented young writer who has Aspergers).

Before you read it just a reminder that from now until the end of March I am running a “Mad March Hare” Special offer for people to join The Parenting Aspergers Community (you can access the site and all it’s benefits for just $1 for  a 10 day Trial) …

To learn more go to http://www.parentingaspergerscommunity.com/public/432.cfm

Now here’s the article by Matthew Readman -

This article is on our education system.   I do not understand how our school system works.   I have been told that every child has the right to an education.   I believe in this fully.  What I do not understand is why some children are treated differently than others.   This year I started in a new school for enrichment studies.   Almost everyone in my class has an Individual Evaluation Plan (IEP).  This is a piece of paper you sit down with your parents and teachers to explain the problems you have and how your needs and difficulties are suppose to handled in the classroom.  i.e.   I need a safe place to go so I can calm down when I am angry.    What gets me real mad is we have a student in our class who yells and disrespects the teacher.  This student is thrown out of class almost every day.  Does this upset me YES!!!!   I guess you can say one of my “needs” is to follow orders, and it gets me mad when this child disrupts the class all the time.  

As you would have guessed this kid and I are arch enemies.  We believe in total opposite things.  I believe you listen to the teacher, do your work and be quiet, as for him, the complete opposite.  This kid also has a violence problem.  When he gets mad he hits people.  He has hit me quite a few times, and after the 5th time I finally hit him back.   But who gets in trouble me!!!!  Why, because I should have known better not to hit, because the kid who hit me has a “violent problem”.

This is what I don’t understand when does one child’s disability more important than someone else’s?

Why do teachers and principals allow so such misconduct in the school over one child?  What about the rights of all the other children with IEP’s.  Basically it comes down to in my mind is a school will attend to the needs of children who are violent (bullies), before a child who actually needs coaching.   My mom always says “a squeaky wheel always gets heard” Does this mean you have to be a total jerk in class so you can get the teachers full attention?

I know for a fact that my IEP and other students in our class are not being met.  We are put in the back burner to this child.   So what options do we have?   If we complain I think our teacher will have nervous breakdown.    She is getting close because she cannot control this child.  Write a letter to the principal?  We did this and explained that this child is ruining our learning environment.  Again, the principal states very clearly every child has a right to an education.  What I am hoping is if my readers can maybe give us some other suggestions how kids can fight the school system on their own without getting parents involved.  We want to fight this on our own. Please add any comments or ideas on the blog.

Another great article by Matthew …

If you want to read more by him then I would strongly suggest that you take advantage of the “Mad March hare Special Offer” to join The Parenting Aspergers Community as Matthew regularly writes for the site.

To Join Now for just $1 (which gives you 10 days Trial Access) go to http://www.parentingaspergerscommunity.com/public/432.cfm

Thanks for reading,

Dave Angel

Aspergers and Siblings is the topic for this week’s article on the blog.

But before that just a quick bit of information – I am traveling to Manchester (in the North of England for those who don’t know!) tomorrow to visit family for a couple of days.

So if I am a bit slow responding to emails in the next few days I apologize upfront – I am not sure what internet access I will have. Anyway that aside here’s this week’s article –

Question

How can I balance it so that I spend enough time with my son with Aspergers and his siblings?

Answer

Every mother struggles to create balance in her life.  Work, household chores, spouse, and children all compete for a woman’s attention.  A child with Asperger’s Syndrome will demand attention.  Other people and areas of life will fall to the wayside as the mother struggles to meet the needs of that child.

It is possible to accomplish the goal of a balanced home life.  It will take planning and dedication, skills you already exercise every day as a mother.  Here are some areas that you can work on.

*    Do your homework.  Find books that will help you deal with tough issues and give you guidance on how to improve the relationships within your home.   The book, “Siblings of Children with Autism: A Guide for Families” by Sandra L. Harris, Ph.D. will be helpful to increase understanding of sibling relationships affected by Autism.  Books like this one can help you develop strategies that will benefit all of your children.

*    Schedule time with each child.  One-on-one time is invaluable for building your children’s self-confidence.  Plan regular alone time with each of your children.  Encourage each child to talk about things that happen with their siblings.  Be open and honest about Asperger’s Syndrome.  These outings are the perfect time to answer questions the siblings may have about your child with Asperger’s.

*    Make time for work and for play.  Household chores should be shared by all.  It is important for all of your children that you keep your child with Asperger’s involved.  He needs to learn these important life skills and his siblings need to experience a home of fairness.  On the other hand, make sure you schedule plenty of structured and free playtime.  Your children need to play together.  Your typical children will learn the value of tolerance while your child with Asperger’s will learn those important social skills.

*    Make therapy a family project.  It can actually be fun.  Spreading the work among several people will make it easier to stick to a therapy plan.  It will teach your children about teamwork, social skills, and what it means to be part of a family.

Finally, be an involved parent.  Support all of your children at school and at home.  Get in the floor with them to play, watch movies, or just hang out.  Talk about everything.  Know what’s going on in their lives, show interest in their friends, and recognize their hobbies and special interests.  Make every minute count for all of your children.

Thanks for reading,

Dave Angel

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http://www.parentingaspergerscommunity.com/members/433.cfm
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PARENTING AUTISM & ASPERGER’S NEWSLETTER
VOLUME     
February 2010        

Welcome to the February 2010 edition of “The Parenting Autism & Asperger’s Newsletter

Inside this edition you will find:

1. Hot Topic of Discussion – The Financial Burden of Autism

2. In the News – Cable Television Movie Biopic of Temple Grandin

3. Prominent People Linked with ASD – American author Temple Grandin, PhD

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1. Hot Topic of Discussion -  Autism Spectrum Disorders and the Financial Burden of Treatments

Families who are dealing with Autism or Asperger’s Syndrome will tell you that healthcare reform is desperately needed in America.  In most states there are no or very little regulations on healthcare coverage for Autism treatments.  For years the burden has been placed on local school districts to offer expensive treatments.  The problem with this is that there is no way the school district budget can handle the costs of these treatments in the appropriate quantity or quality needed and deserved.

For those families who can afford private treatments, they are usually available.  However, at thousands of dollars per month, per child, even those with resources in the upper class range are hard-pressed to continue such expense over the course of a child’s lifetime.

Thankfully, changes are being made in the coverage and availability of Autism treatments in the United States.  Programs are available that may help families with the financial burden.  This article highlights a few of these options.

http://www.theautismnews.com/2010/01/25/dealing-with-the-financial-burden-of-autism/ 

*People mentioned as having Asperger’s Syndrome may or may not have actually have been diagnosed with an ASD.

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2.  In the News -   Major Cable Television Station Airs Autism Biopic

Every once in a great while, a film maker with delve into the area of Autism spectrum disorders and come out with a realistic movie character.  Not since the movie
Rain Man has a film gotten as much attention as the upcoming made-for-cable biopic about the life of Temple Grandin.  Dr. Grandin was diagnosed with Autism as a child, and went on to earn her PhD.  

This movie tells the story of Dr. Grandin’s childhood struggles and how she went on to become world-renowned consultant and professor of animal sciences.

In connection with this movie, HBO has added a promo on their website, http://www.hbo.com/movies/temple-grandin  
along with interactive Autism support.  This is a huge step in the right direction for awareness of what it is like to live with an Autism spectrum disorder.
Read the full story here:

http://www.theautismnews.com/2010/01/21/barnes-noble-hbo-team-to-publicize-autism-biopic-temple-grandin/

*People mentioned as having Asperger’s Syndrome may or may not have actually have been diagnosed with an ASD.

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3. Prominent People Linked with ASD -  Temple Grandin, PhD

In the spirit of Autism awareness, this month’s featured individual is Temple Grandin.  (You can read about the upcoming HBO movie about her life in the “In the News” section above.)

When a child is newly diagnosed with an Autism spectrum disorder, Dr. Temple Grandin is one of the most recommended resources available.  She has written many books about Autism and how it has affected her life, which offers parents and affected individuals alike hope and understanding. 

You can read more about Temple Grandin here:

http://www.templegrandin.com/
*The person mentioned above may or may not have Asperger’s Syndrome.
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I hope this month’s newsletter has intrigued you and provided new and useful information.

The next edition of the newsletter is due in March, 2010.
      
And as always … please send in any inspirational stories, any questions that you would like our team of experts to answer, any topics that you wish to be discussed, and news stories that you want to share VIA THE BLOG.

We will publish as many as we can.

Until next month………

Best Wishes

Dave Angel

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Articles posted this week at The Parenting Aspergers Community

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My son with Aspergers doesn’t want to eat at school. What can I do?

Eating problems are very common in children with Asperger’s Syndrome. There can be a variety of issues that cause a child to deny themselves food. Digestive problems, social discomfort, and behavioral problems are all real and possible concerns when it comes to the nutrition of the child with Asperger’s. Since your question specifically asks about eating at school, these problems are probably not the cause. If any of these issues were present, your son would show an aversion to eating at other times and not just at school. The likely cause of your son’s aversion is …

To read the full article go to: -

http://www.parentingaspergerscommunity.com/members/430.cfm

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How can I get help with respite/child care for my child with Aspergers?

There’s no question about the love you feel for your child, but let’s face it. Caring for a child with Asperger’s Syndrome can get stressful, tiring, and lonely. When you find yourself avoiding social situations because you’re uncomfortable leaving your child, it’s time to find an alternative plan. You can’t spend 100% of your time caring for others without time to care for yourself. When preparing to take a plane trip, the flight crew reminds the passengers to apply their own oxygen masks before assisting others. In other words, you will be worthless unless you take care of yourself first …

To read the full article go to: -

http://www.parentingaspergerscommunity.com/members/429.cfm

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Where can I find psychologists who have expertise in Asperger’s Syndrome?

Whether you are trying to get an evaluation for a diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome, or trying to build a support team for a child who has already been diagnosed with Asperger’s, it is necessary to include a good psychologist. A psychologist with experience in Autism spectrum or Asperger’s will be a vital member of your child’s medical team. Finding a specialist can be a bit difficult unless you know where to look …

To read the full article go to: -

http://www.parentingaspergerscommunity.com/members/428.cfm
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Hi there and welcome to this week’s blog article about Teenagers with Aspergers and Transition. Here it is …

Question

My child is a teenager with Asperger’s.  How do I transition him into adulthood?

Answer

No doubt that this is an exciting time in your home.  Your child with Asperger’s has reached the age of college and career.  Your hard work has paid off after years of special education, therapy and family support.  Congratulations on a job well done!

Now you get to move on to the next phase in life.  You’ve given your child a good strong foundation and you want to continue to help.  If you haven’t yet, researching adult Asperger’s is a good place to begin this transition.

As more kids are growing up under the Asperger’s Syndrome diagnosis than ever before, the need for family and community resources are increasing.  If you search the Internet, you will find articles, books, videos, and support groups all geared directly to the Asperger’s adult.

The video “Asperger Syndrome:  Transition to College and Work” by Coulter Video is a good starting point.  This video delivers just what the title suggests practical help for the transition into adulthood.

Once you’ve researched and read up on the basics, find local resources for support and information applicable to your community.  Job skills classes, teen and/or adult Asperger’s support meetings, career counseling, and independent living options can all be found on the local level.  Tap into these sources to receive much needed planning assistance and support for both of you.

Encourage your child to pursue his dreams.  If college seems too overwhelming, suggest a local community college.  Your teen can live at home, fully supported by family, while obtaining a college degree.  Plus, the community college will have disability support services that can be used for additional assistance.

A vocational training school is another option to think about.  Close to home, these programs are geared towards adults looking for a career certificate.  Computer technology classes, welding, auto repair, and air-conditioning technology are common vocational school possibilities.  In less than two years, your teen could be certified in an area of interest that also pays well.

The opportunity to live at home and continue the education process will give your teen time to make choices and decisions regarding life skills.  All the research you do now can be utilized over the years while your teen achieves his post-high school goals, giving you both a better transition into the adult years.

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http://www.parentingaspergerscommunity.com/members/428.cfm
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Hi there –

Welcome to this week’s blog post which is all about Aspergers and employment.

Also a quick note to let you know that I am just putting the finishing touches to my latest ebook “A Parents Guide to Emotions and Communication in Children with Aspergers” which will be available some time in the next 7 days for all members at http://www.ParentingAspergersCommunity.com

Here’s this week’s article –

Question

I want to help my son with Aspergers to get employment in the field that he does well at, but there is no one out there who will give him a chance-Help!

Answer

The job market can seem like a cold, cruel place.  So many people are competing for a hand full of jobs, hoping to break into their field of interest.  It truly is a rat race.  There are things you can do to help your son find his place in the battlefield of employment.

You’ve already given him a good start by encouraging him to find a career that is focused on one of his interests.  People with Asperger’s Syndrome can have very strong obsessions.  The amount of attention your son places on his obsessions guarantee that he will be extremely knowledgeable in that area.  Not only that, the personal involvement makes him intensely happy.

“Developing Talents:  Careers for Individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism-Updated and Expanded Edition” by Temple Grandin and Kate Duffy is an excellent resource to use while planning to help your son find the perfect opportunity.  This is a thorough account on employment prospects and opportunities available for people with Asperger’s.

An internship is a good way to get a foot in the door of a possible employer.  Many companies that are under hiring freeze still have work that another person could be doing.  By offering time as an intern, your son could receive valuable on-the-job training in his field of interest.  It’s true that he wouldn’t be a paid employee, but once that hiring freeze is lifted, he’ll be first in line for the job.

Volunteering is another option. Although not as structured, volunteering is similar to an internship, meaning no pay.  Volunteer opportunities can be found in every community.  They may not be directly related to his field of interest, but he could learn how to be a good employee in many different situations.  Not to mention, the volunteer hours will look really good on his resume.

Do not discredit the idea of your son accepting a job unrelated to his area of interest.  Sometimes you have to work up a little bit to that preferred position.   A company that does business in his area of interest may have openings in another department.  Lateral moves happen all the time.  And if it doesn’t, he will have solid work experience to add to his resume when he’s ready to make the jump into his desired field.

Finding employment based on your son’s interest will assure a successful and enjoyable career.  These tips and suggestions should get you started building your son’s resume and enabling him to secure the job of his dreams.

Thanks for reading,

Dave Angel

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Hi there,

Welcome to this week’s blog post which cover Aspergers, The Future and an apology!

First up the apology … I somehow messed up the link yesterday to discover more about Craig Kendall’s excellent book “The Aspergers Syndrome Survival Guide”.

If you’re interested then Click This Link Now

Now on to the article which looks at the following question:–

Question

I am worried about the future and keeping in touch with my grown son with Asperger’s now that he has left.  Any advice for me?

Answer

People with Asperger’s Syndrome usually have problems building and maintaining solid, long-lasting relationships.  However, they can and do form bonds with a select few.  Their parents are likely to make the list of permanent contacts.  Your son may be grown and out of the house, but you weigh heavily on his mind.  You were there for every special occasion, creating memories that burn brightly in his highly intelligent mind. 
 
The point that bothers you is probably his inconsistent contact.  Isolation is a common issue in people with Asperger’s Syndrome.  Your son’s core nature is to be alone.  He is more comfortable living among his things and obsessions than he is with people, even his own parents.  It’s not intentional.  This is one of those areas in which you will have to take control. 

Be honest with your son.  Tell him that, unlike him, you do not have Asperger’s Syndrome.  You need the conversation and company that he is so willing to avoid.  As his parent you have to maintain contact.  It’s your job to think about him and worry about him, no matter how old he is.

Perhaps you could make a calendar schedule for him.  On the calendar, you could fill in the dates that you’d like to hear from him by telephone and dates for actual face-to-face visits.  With the calendar, your son will have a visual timetable in which to refer.   Make sure you give him a little space; he is an adult.  As his parent, a daily visit or phone call would be perfect.  As the adult child, he’s probably thinking a couple of calls a week and maybe a visit.

Make plans to visit his home regularly.  Not daily, maybe bi-weekly, but definite monthly visits should be tolerable.  You’ll need to assure yourself that he is taking care of his household chores, his body, his health and wellness, his bills, and any other areas of his life. 

Letting go of control is difficult for most parents.  Your son’s needs make it that much harder for you.  You can take comfort in the fact that you have raised your son to be the best he can be.  Try not to worry; concentrate on his happiness and success.  He may not say it, but he’ll be thankful for your involvement in his own way.

Thanks

Dave Angel

PS I would highly recommend visiting Craig Kendall’s “Aspergers Syndrome Survival Guide” website today if you haven’t already then Click Here Now to do so.

Hello and welcome to this week’s Aspergers blog post which looks at gaining life skills. Here’s the article:

Question

How do I help my son with Aspergers to gain the appropriate life skills so that he will someday be able to support himself as independently as possible?

Answer

There is nothing quite like the joy felt as you watch your baby grow from a tiny, helpless infant to a big, strapping, independent man.  Ah, success-you’ve accomplished the job set before you.  Sometimes, however, the journey is difficult, filled with obstacles of all kinds.  Asperger’s Syndrome can be an obstacle, but not one that is too big to manage.

You’ve been with him through the struggles of making friends, keeping friends, sensory issues, obsessions, and his reluctance to change.   You’ve taught him ways to overcome the weaknesses on some level and enhance the positives as much as possible; there are positives to Asperger’s, as you well know.  Over the years you’ve read and wrote social stories and scripts to help him work through situations like dating and sports.  And when you couldn’t figure out a way to help him, you fought for support or therapy from the school system or the medical community.

The most important change you’ll have to make now is switching control over to him.  It is time to allow him to become more involved in the process. Let him know that you will be available for him, but help him see that he will be capable of taking care of himself without your constant supervision.  It’s time to form a plan.

Contact your local Autism support organization and ask for suggestions for life skills classes, social skills classes, and financial planning assistance.  Some groups may call these services transitional skills.  Your son can learn skills like managing housework, finding a job, learning to develop relationships with other adults in his situation, making and sticking to a budget, and paying his bills. 

Many communities provide support for all citizens with disabilities.  They offer career counseling and job placement services, among other advocacy assistance.  They may also offer assisted living in your community.  Sit down with your son and decide which services he needs, and then make plans to contact the appropriate offices. 

As a suggestion, you may want to find a written source to help you come up with a complete strategy for your son’s independence.  One such resource is “Becoming Remarkably Able:  Walking the Path to Talents, Interests, and Personal Growth” by Jackie Marquette, Ph.D.  This book is designed to be used by the support person of an individual with Autism or Asperger‘s.  You will find suggestions, assessments, and action steps to use to establish goals for your son’s future. 

You can do this!  More importantly, your son can do this.  He is well on his way to making this transition because of the support you’ve given him all along. 

Thanks for reading,

Dave Angel

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Articles and Videos posted this week at The Parenting Aspergers Community

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Video on Aspergers and Characters 2

This is part 2 of a video made by a teen girl with Asperger’s Syndrome. In this video, she continues talking about movie and book characters who are portrayed as having Asperger’s or High Functioning Autism. At one point, she loses her train of thought and begins to stim with her hands. This leads to a discussion of why people stim. She then moves on to talk about how special schools for young children with Autism tend to redirect stimming attempts, for no reason other than because it looks weird. Very interesting perspective that shows the differences in girls and boys with Asperger’s Syndrome. Running time: 9 minutes, 51 seconds . . .

To watch this video go to: -

http://www.parentingaspergerscommunity.com/members/408.cfm

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Video on Aspergers Characters

A teen girl with Asperger’s Syndrome talks about characters in books, television shows, and movies that are purposely portrayed as Asperger’s and how this makes her feel. She goes on to give examples of other characters who are not purposely written as on the spectrum, but who have distinct characteristics of Asperger’s Syndrome. These characters are more likeable, she believes, because they are not given a disability. Running time: 9 minutes 59 seconds …To watch this video article go to: -

http://www.parentingaspergerscommunity.com/members/407.cfm

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Aspergers and New Year Resolutions by Matthew Readman

I would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year. My first article for 2010 is on New Year’s resolutions. Every year I hear my mom and dad, grandfather and grandmother make their New Year’s resolutions on something they say they want to stop or start. They asked me this year if I had any resolutions, as I am getting older and should start making goals for myself. I stated, “Why bother?” My mother said everyone has something they wish to change for the better or a bad habit they wish to stop. I am 11 years old, and I have aspergers. What do I want to change? Okay…….I do not want aspergers. I want to be popular and wish to have a million dollars …To read the full article go to: -

http://www.parentingaspergerscommunity.com/members/406.cfm

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PARENTING AUTISM & ASPERGER’S NEWSLETTER
VOLUME
January 2010

Welcome to the first 2010 edition of “The Parenting Autism & Asperger’s Newsletter”.
It’s a new year and a new decade!

Inside this edition you will find:

1. Hot Topic of Discussion – Autism on the Rise

2. In the News – Asperger’s Parents Resist Name Change

3. Prominent People Linked with ASD – American Actor Matthew Laborteaux

4. Various Extras …

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1. Hot Topic of Discussion -  Removing Asperger’s from the Spectrum?

How would it feel if you had worked hard to find the appropriate doctors, therapists, and services for your child, and finally received an accurate diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome, only to learn that a group of psychiatrists had decided to remove Asperger’s Syndrome from existence?

Many families are facing this very reality and they are not happy.  The DSM, a diagnostic tool used in cases of Autism Spectrum Disorder, is being revised in 2012.  Several mental health experts are pushing for the Asperger’s Syndrome diagnosis to be removed from the DSM and essentially folding into the high functioning Autism category.

Many mental health experts disagree, however, as do families who are affected by Asperger’s Syndrome.  They feel removing variations from the spectrum diagnosis will lead to added confusion instead of demystifying Autism.

In this article, you can read the thoughts on both sides of the issue from parents, experts, and Autism advocates.  There seem to be pros and cons from all viewpoints.

Do you agree?  Should Asperger’s Syndrome remain on the DSM as part of the Autism Spectrum Disorder?  Read more about it by clicking this link:

http://www.theautismnews.com/2009/11/04/aspergers-parents-resist-name-change/

*People mentioned as having Asperger’s Syndrome may or may not have actually have been diagnosed with an ASD.

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2.  In the News – Is Autism on the Rise?

Just as Autism Advocacy groups have been claiming for the past few years, Autism is rising, and now the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is in agreement.

A recent study by the CDC raises the count to 1% of all 8 year olds.  This is a 57% jump from just four years ago.  If you translate these percentages, you will find that one in every 110 children is diagnosed with some form of Autism Spectrum Disorder.  That comes down to one in every 70 boys and one in every 315 girls, overall, with a diagnosis of ASD.

So, what is the cause of this increase? Because the diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder is subjective, it is difficult to say with accuracy what is causing this increase in cases.   The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention say there is no absolute cause for this increase, but do site the improvement in diagnostics and awareness as one reason for the swelling numbers.

You can read the article and the full report by the Centers of Disease
Control and Prevention by clicking this link:

http://www.theautismnews.com/2009/12/19/kids-autism-on-the-rise-research-shows/

*People mentioned as having Asperger’s Syndrome may or may not have actually have been diagnosed with an ASD.

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3. Prominent People Linked with ASD -  Actor Matthew Laborteaux

Depending on your age, or possibly your cable or satellite television subscription, you have most likely seen an episode of “Little House on the Prairie”, starring the late Michael Landon.  This popular American television series was a huge hit back in the 1970’s and many people, young and old, still watch the syndicated episodes.

The role of Albert Ingalls, the son of Michael Landon’s character, was played by a young American actor named Matthew Laborteaux.  His role on this hit series is one that he is most remembered for, and fondly remembered at that.

Matthew’s bio includes that he was born in 1966 with Autism and a congenital heart defect.  Another article states that he was considered Autistic until he was five.  You can read more about Matthew Laborteaux by clicking the following links:

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0479612/bio

http://www.people.com/people/archive/article/0,,20071697,00.html

*The person mentioned above may or may not have Asperger’s Syndrome.
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4. A Few Extras …

a.) Summer Camp Pennsylvania

“Hi Dave,

I came across your site and thought that your members might like to learn about Summit Camp, which caters towards children with issues of attention, including aspergers.  Here’s a short article on our camp.  We’re located in Pennsylvania.  Is this something you can post?

Thanks,

Gene …

We all know that raising a child with special needs presents challenges at almost all stages of development.  Whether in interacting in social settings, dealing with everyday tasks, or learning critical life skills, a special needs child needs to be in the appropriate environment to reach the heights that we all hope for. As Senior Director of Summit Camp, I’ve seen countless of these children attain goals and reach new heights in the warm and encouraging atmosphere of our summer camp, travel, and school year weekender programs.

With our “Magic On the Hill,” Summit Camp has been meeting the needs of special needs children since 1969.  Located in Wayne County, Pennsylvania, our camp and travel programs serve children ages 8 – 19 with attention issues.  The various diagnoses that a camper may have include verbal or non-verbal learning disorders, AD/HD, Asperger’s Syndrome, Tourettes Syndrome, and/or mild mood disorders.  We provide a consistent environment for these children that enables them to better establish meaningful and mutually rewarding relationships with other children – something you know is often times difficult for them in the traditional school environment.

We understand that each camper is unique and has his or her own challenges that we work to overcome in order to meet the basic needs for acceptance, recognition and respect.  But throughout all of the various sessions and activities, certain goals are constant – we look to establish and reinforce feelings of success, confidence, enthusiasm and self-worth in all of our campers.  These are the traits that they may not attain in the typical social environments, and I believe we can fill those voids.

Through traditional camping activities – sports, arts and crafts, hiking, and other camp programs, we work to help them attain these traits.  Yet, each program is geared towards developing the social interaction skills of the camper and allowing them to identify their special interests. Our staff is masterful at bringing each camper on at their own pace while also involved with their bunkmates.  Older campers also have the opportunity for “personal development training,” such as baby sitting or auto repair, and during summer sessions they take part in three-day overnight trips, while younger campers can participate in afternoon daytrips.

We’ve seen children build friendships, improve social skills, gain independence, and learn the life skills that we all need to succeed.  Through it all, the safety of our campers is paramount. We have 250 staff to supervise and nurture the maximum 300 campers our camp hosts at a time.

I encourage you to check out our website and learn more about Summit Camp and the “Magic on the Hill.”  It’s made a difference in the lives of so many special children and their families, and it may be the perfect fit for your child as well. For more information visit www.summitcamp.com.

b.) Trip for ASD Kids from USA to UK

“ From: Dr. Beverly Daley

I   am excited to announce that Childrens Hospital Los Angeles has created  a program in England this summer specifically designed for  young people with ASD. Limited to 15 participants and staffed by Jill Hudson, two post-doctoral students, a leader from Putney Student  Travel and me, the group will visit Oxford and London for ten days in  July. It will be stimulating, educational, and a lot of fun!

More details at http://www.aspennj.org/pdf/events/putney-student-travel.pdf

c.) Guardianship Court

“ Dave – Wanted to share with you:

We just finished with our guardianship court hearing for our 18 yr old Asperger son. Don’t know if you’ve mentioned this on your blog before, but we were advised by our CARD representative to file as “guardian advocates” for our son, to be able to continue to assist him with major decisions (residence, school, medical consent, etc) and handling finances. In the US, when someone is 18, they make their own decisions, and he’s not yet mature enough or ready at this time. We can also file claims for benefits on his behalf with Social Security, etc. So it’s a good thing, and I recommend it to other parents of teen aspies.

Thank you for all the wonderful posts, they are so timely and uplifting, it is a blessing to have this virtual support group and see what other parents have to say 24/7!

Regards,

Mercedes”

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I hope this month’s newsletter has intrigued you and provided new and useful information.

The next edition of the newsletter is due in February, 2010.

And as always … please send in any inspirational stories, any questions that you would like our team of experts to answer, any topics that you wish to be discussed, and news stories that you want to share VIA THE BLOG.

We will publish as many as we can.

Until next month………

Best Wishes

Dave Angel

Hello and welcome to this week’s blog post about Aspergers and sexual behavior.

Here it is …

Question

I want to teach my child about appropriate sexual behavior-but how?

Answer

Everyone wants to be loved.  Children seek love from their parents and eventually, they will seek love from their peers.  Children with Asperger’s Syndrome want to feel love and affection just like everyone else, but they are hampered by their inability to form solid relationships.   Building a strong parent-child bond early in life will help teach your Asperger’s child about relationships, love and the closeness necessary to form intimate bonds.  There will be more work to do later, as you’re realizing now.

Sexuality should be openly discussed at the appropriate level at all ages.  Once your child hits puberty, it’s time to talk about sexual behavior.  Talk, talk and talk some more.  Having a clear path of communication with your child will enable you to have conversations about important life lessons.  Make sure you respect his needs for adjusted communication.  Talking while walking for example, or while driving through town, will give him a chance to voice his thoughts without having to maintain eye contact.  Plus, he may be more willing to open up about his true thoughts and feelings when he knows you are not focusing solely on him.

Children with Asperger’s like to have the facts.  No cutesy stories, no made-up names and definitely no personal details.  Stick to clear, concise facts using proper terminology.  Have him make a list of the facts.  In addition, have him make a list of dos and don’ts in relation to sexual behavior.  This will appeal to his need for order. Here are some suggestions to start a list of do’s and don’ts:

•    I should stand a foot away from another person.  People need their space.

•    I should not touch a person’s face, hair, or body without permission.

•    I should not touch my own body in public.  Touching myself is private.

Find books on the subject of sexuality geared to children with Asperger’s or younger typical kids.  These books will be written and illustrated in a way that he can easily understand.

If your child is already a teenager or older, the book “Autism-Asperger’s & Sexuality:  Puberty and Beyond” by Jerry and Mary Newport; foreword by Teresa Bolick is a good place to start.  Written by a husband and wife team both living with Asperger’s Syndrome, this book will help guide your child (and you) through the challenging topics of puberty and sexuality.

Your child is going through major physical and emotional changes.  He may find it difficult to cope with these changes and how they relate to all areas of life.  His body and hygiene, friendships and dating, maturity and behavior will all be affected by becoming an adult.  With your guidance, he can make these changes and approach adulthood well educated on the subject of sexuality and proper sexual behavior.

Thanks for reading,

Dave Angel

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Articles posted this week at The Parenting Aspergers Community

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I am still trying to receive a diagnosis of Aspergers for my child. What should I do in the US or UK?

When you think something is “not quite right” with your child, it is best to follow through with the appropriate action. A parent knows his or her own child better than anyone else. That bond is there for a reason. It is the parent’s natural instinct to take care of the child’s every need. If you think that your child may have Asperger’s Syndrome, you should pursue the assessment process as soon as possible …

To read the full article go to: -

http://www.parentingaspergerscommunity.com/members/405.cfm

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How can my adult son with Aspergers find and keep a job?

We associate all of our self-worth on how successful we are in life. The right career, the perfect house, and good friends are all necessary for us to fit in. In reality, most people would be far happier with less if they could spend their days chasing their dreams instead of dollars. People with Asperger’s Syndrome spend their time concentrating on personal interests. This can be useful when it comes to finding a job …To read the full article go to: -

http://www.parentingaspergerscommunity.com/members/404.cfm

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How do I help instill confidence in my son with Aspergers as he continues to grow? (He’s a young adult now.)

Kids with Asperger’s Syndrome can definitely struggle with a lack of self-confidence. These kids are targeted by their peers in so many ways. They sometimes come across as ‘too good’, needing strict adherence to rules. They can also be highly intelligent, causing them to be labeled as ‘brains’. Sometimes clumsy, kids with Asperger’s are just different enough that the other kids at school resort to picking at them. Bullying is a huge problem for kids with Asperger’s. Add in the inability to make good social connections and you have a definite risk for low self-esteem …

To read the full article go to: -

http://www.parentingaspergerscommunity.com/members/403.cfm

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Hi and welcome to this week’s Aspergers article about social skills –

Question

What is the best way to teach social skills to my adolescent son who has Aspergers?

Answer

Asperger’s Syndrome makes it hard for people to handle social situations.  It is important to remember that a person can appear socially comfortable, using proper speech, good behavior, and impeccable manners.  However, these things do not make a person socially able.  Having these qualities will not help with the real issues of socialization.  You have to find ways to teach basic, age appropriate social skills so your son will feel natural among his peers.

Social skills therapy is used to teach real interaction within a peer group.  At school, your son should be able to participate in a social skills group.  This type of therapy is guided by a therapist and includes kids in the same age and social ability ranges.  The therapist will initiate conversation within the group, and then have the kids practice some basic pre-scripted situations among themselves.  They are given the tools they need during therapy to use in real-life opportunities.

Some schools have peer group shadowing.  Peer shadowing enlists the aid of a select group from the general education population, preparing them to assist children with Asperger’s in the daily communication and interaction skills they are missing.  The shadows are trained to break down the normal conversations that they automatically understand and deliver the skills in a step-by-step fashion.  For example, the peer is taught to ask about another child’s day in simple terms and then how to respond in a straight-forward manner to keep the conversation going.  The child with Asperger’s is then able to mirror the behavior he sees coming from his peer.  The peer learns valuable lessons in tolerance while the child with Asperger’s learns the basic social skills he so desperately needs. Not only will your son learn how to deal with social situations this way, he will also get a chance to interact with kids at school that may have never given him a chance.

Social stories are a very popular option for teaching social skills.  More often thought about for younger kids, you can now find them written specifically for the needs of the adolescent or teen Asperger’s kids.  Some are even in comic book form.  Your son may find these interesting, easy to read and effective.  Plus, he will be in control of the situations he learns about.  As he ages, he probably will not want his parents to know everything about what he’s thinking on a social level.

“Social Success Workbook” by Barbara Cooper and Nancy Widdows, is a good way to give your son more control of the situation.  The most common topics, including social cues, emotions, and meltdowns are covered in this engaging workbook.

Direct involvement is one of the best ways to reach kids this age.  Give your son ownership by allowing his input when searching for answers.  Adolescence is the time to encourage a bit of independence.  Let him know that he can learn to handle and even enjoy relationships.
Thanks for reading,

Dave Angel

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Articles posted this week at The Parenting Aspergers Community

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How can I work out what expectations are realistic for my boy with Asperger’s and what potential he may have for the future (he’s 13)?

When a baby is born, his mother’s eyes hungrily take in all of the details. She sees so much more than the tiny infant in her arms. She sees all of her hopes and dreams for his future. As he grows, his mother’s hopes and dreams for him grow with him. She wants to see him be the best T-ball player he can be and when she watches him play, she sees the major league player of the future …

To read the full article go to: -

http://www.parentingaspergerscommunity.com/members/402.cfm

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Will my son with Asperger’s be able to cope with college?

More and more teens with Asperger’s Syndrome are graduating from high school and making a seamless transition to college. Adjusting to college can be a challenge for all teens. Your son will be no different in that aspect. There is every indication that your son will be able to modify his thinking with a few guidelines and some help from you …To read the full article go to: -

http://www.parentingaspergerscommunity.com/members/401.cfm

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How can I decide how to provide opportunities for independent adult living?

The goal in life that everyone strives for is independence. We all want our children to be independent, making their own plans and decisions. We offer excellent guidance and support from a very young age to prevent as much struggle to learn basic social skills and coping strategies as possible. As our children grow up, we must take the steps necessary to help them achieve the ultimate goal of independence …To read the full article go to: -

http://www.parentingaspergerscommunity.com/members/400.cfm
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