AnaCS2235
09-15-2004, 08:32 PM
I am in the 8th grade (13 going on 14) at a new school. My mom is teaching 8th grade Spanish there, and has an autistic boy (Brady) in her homeroom. Ever since I found out he was autistic (I thought he was just a nerd :/ ) I've been trying to talk to him, like, get him to exchange words with me. Do you know what I mean?
I can't make a break though with him. :( This is really bothing me.
I'd like to mention that I sorta want to be a Special Ed teacher when I get older.
Any advice would help.
Thanks in advance!
I can't make a break though with him. :( This is really bothing me.
I'd like to mention that I sorta want to be a Special Ed teacher when I get older.
Any advice would help.
Thanks in advance!
Sponsor
ang64063
09-16-2004, 02:37 AM
If you can find some common interests that would be a start. One thing about a lot of Autistic kids is that they are not the best conversationalists, but don't give up.
I don't even know you, but I have to say that I am very proud of you and what you are wanting to do. Most kids would think that he is just a nerd, odd or slow and that he has nothing to contribute to society. You on the other hand sound like you think differently and I hope that you can pass that on to other kids and adults.
Our kids deserve to be treated the same as other kids and it makes me proud when kids can see that. I get such a kick when I see my son trying to be like the other kids and the other kids actually interact with him.
I don't even know you, but I have to say that I am very proud of you and what you are wanting to do. Most kids would think that he is just a nerd, odd or slow and that he has nothing to contribute to society. You on the other hand sound like you think differently and I hope that you can pass that on to other kids and adults.
Our kids deserve to be treated the same as other kids and it makes me proud when kids can see that. I get such a kick when I see my son trying to be like the other kids and the other kids actually interact with him.
Redhead23
09-16-2004, 06:08 AM
Is he verbal at all? If he isn't then it is not very likely you can just get him to talk.
It's fantastic that you want to communicate with him, maybe buying a good book on the subject may be an idea? Also ask your Mom what methods she uses to communicate with him, and what he likes or dislikes - I am sure she can give you some helpful hints!
It's fantastic that you want to communicate with him, maybe buying a good book on the subject may be an idea? Also ask your Mom what methods she uses to communicate with him, and what he likes or dislikes - I am sure she can give you some helpful hints!
NineLives
09-16-2004, 08:59 AM
There are just so many different ways that autism presents itself in each individual. Each are very unique. My son would have a conversation with you, but he might not make eye contact the entire time. Other kids might only want to talk about the things that interest them because they can't fathom that you would possibly want to talk about something else. I would say listen to Brady in class and I think you will soon find out what his interests are and then go from there.
AnaCS2235
09-16-2004, 07:26 PM
Today (Sept 16) I gave him a picture/sign that had his name on it with smilies around it and what not. (He loves smilies.) My mom said he might not take it, and that I shouldn't be offended if he didn't.
So, at the end of the day I told him I made something for him, he actully waited for me while I got it out of my back pack. He did take it, and studied it for a second. He said thanks and we went our seprate ways.
He does talk, but I've only heard him talk to a little red-head freakly boy. Like actully asking him about a computer game. Maybe I'll track him down in the hall on Monday and see what kind of information I can get out of him. ;]
I did ask my mom, she said not to push it alot. She thinks I'm weird for wanting to befriend him, or something.
Anyways, thanks for the replys, they really mean alot to me.
So, at the end of the day I told him I made something for him, he actully waited for me while I got it out of my back pack. He did take it, and studied it for a second. He said thanks and we went our seprate ways.
He does talk, but I've only heard him talk to a little red-head freakly boy. Like actully asking him about a computer game. Maybe I'll track him down in the hall on Monday and see what kind of information I can get out of him. ;]
I did ask my mom, she said not to push it alot. She thinks I'm weird for wanting to befriend him, or something.
Anyways, thanks for the replys, they really mean alot to me.
SheRa
09-16-2004, 09:13 PM
undefinedHi! What is your name so I know what to call you? My son has autism but he is very high functioning. He would talk your EAR off but mostly about what he likes to talk about. (haha). I think it's way cool that you are trying to befriend this boy. I think what you did is cool and probably a good start. You might try saying hello to him. I would think that since he is in your class that means that he is an (inclusion) student. Does he have an aide or anyone that works with him? If so he/she would be able to you learn what he likes and how to get to know him better. My son has an aide and is in some special ed class and in some regular classes with an aide (she helps him stay focused). Please if you do get to be friends with this boy stay friends with him. If he becomes attached it may annoy you once you make more friends. I'm lucky my son Cory has made some really true blue friends who always talk to him and makes time for him even when they would rather hang out with the other kids. It makes me a little sad that your Mom as a teacher thinks that befriending this boy is "weird", but I am a little sensitive since my son is on the other end. Luckily at our school system they include most of the kids with special needs (not severe) and the kids get used to having them around and get to know them and be friendly to them. I think the sign thing was an excellent idea. Keep up the good work! :wave:
Book AntiquaundefinedToday (Sept 16) I gave him a picture/sign that had his name on it with smilies around it and what not. (He loves smilies.) My mom said he might not take it, and that I shouldn't be offended if he didn't.
So, at the end of the day I told him I made something for him, he actully waited for me while I got it out of my back pack. He did take it, and studied it for a second. He said thanks and we went our seprate ways.
He does talk, but I've only heard him talk to a little red-head freakly boy. Like actully asking him about a computer game. Maybe I'll track him down in the hall on Monday and see what kind of information I can get out of him. ;]
I did ask my mom, she said not to push it alot. She thinks I'm weird for wanting to befriend him, or something.
Anyways, thanks for the replys, they really mean alot to me.
Book AntiquaundefinedToday (Sept 16) I gave him a picture/sign that had his name on it with smilies around it and what not. (He loves smilies.) My mom said he might not take it, and that I shouldn't be offended if he didn't.
So, at the end of the day I told him I made something for him, he actully waited for me while I got it out of my back pack. He did take it, and studied it for a second. He said thanks and we went our seprate ways.
He does talk, but I've only heard him talk to a little red-head freakly boy. Like actully asking him about a computer game. Maybe I'll track him down in the hall on Monday and see what kind of information I can get out of him. ;]
I did ask my mom, she said not to push it alot. She thinks I'm weird for wanting to befriend him, or something.
Anyways, thanks for the replys, they really mean alot to me.
memehegan
09-17-2004, 10:56 PM
Thumbs up to you- my son is 13 1/2 and high functioning- boys in general at that age are totally into beyblades and pokeman and legos and remote control anything. My son also loves spanish and is in 8th grade. This young man must be very bright to be in spanish because I had to fight to get my son into his spanish class - the school said it was just common practice and common sense not to overload an autistic spectrum child with a second language when they are struggling to master english as a first language when they are stressed and under pressure- I argued that I had been teaching him spanish at home scince he was three and that they would have to give him a chance. Last year his spanish average was 98- yet his english average -with curriculum adapted to 3rd-4th grade level was barely 80! I think spanish has actually helped him get a 'handle on "english a little.
Izzorc
09-17-2004, 11:44 PM
:angel: You sound like a fabulous, empathatic, kind girl. I am sure your mother is proud that you are her child. I have a 2 year old autistic son, and can only hope he meets someone as kind and sincere as you.
God bless you and your beautiful heart.
:angel: :angel: :angel: :angel: :)
God bless you and your beautiful heart.
:angel: :angel: :angel: :angel: :)
SheRa
09-18-2004, 11:02 AM
Wow this makes me sad. I let them talk me out of putting Cory into a Spanish class. He really wanted to in 7th grade. I bought him some spanish software (actually maybe I'll get it out again) and he didn't pick up on it so I thought he wouldn't do well. I'm happy your son did well in it. I guess maybe if I knew spanish or someone close to us I would have went for it.
Thumbs up to you- my son is 13 1/2 and high functioning- boys in general at that age are totally into beyblades and pokeman and legos and remote control anything. My son also loves spanish and is in 8th grade. This young man must be very bright to be in spanish because I had to fight to get my son into his spanish class - the school said it was just common practice and common sense not to overload an autistic spectrum child with a second language when they are struggling to master english as a first language when they are stressed and under pressure- I argued that I had been teaching him spanish at home scince he was three and that they would have to give him a chance. Last year his spanish average was 98- yet his english average -with curriculum adapted to 3rd-4th grade level was barely 80! I think spanish has actually helped him get a 'handle on "english a little.
Thumbs up to you- my son is 13 1/2 and high functioning- boys in general at that age are totally into beyblades and pokeman and legos and remote control anything. My son also loves spanish and is in 8th grade. This young man must be very bright to be in spanish because I had to fight to get my son into his spanish class - the school said it was just common practice and common sense not to overload an autistic spectrum child with a second language when they are struggling to master english as a first language when they are stressed and under pressure- I argued that I had been teaching him spanish at home scince he was three and that they would have to give him a chance. Last year his spanish average was 98- yet his english average -with curriculum adapted to 3rd-4th grade level was barely 80! I think spanish has actually helped him get a 'handle on "english a little.
AnaCS2235
09-19-2004, 10:34 PM
Hi Shera!
My name is Ana Caroline, but evey one calls me AnaC. for short :). He doesn't have an aide, hes smart. I mean seriously, he has all A's. In Spanish hes done all the extra credit so hes above an A! I've had Spanish in my home all my life and I'm braley making an A.
We didn't have school Friday because of flooding with hurrican Ivan or what not. But tommrow I'll make an effort to say "hi, hello, hey" to him in the hall.
Memehegan - It's good that you got Spanish for your son, who'd known that he'd be better in Spanish than English.
I have acouple questions - Does high functioning mean the child is talkative? Are there like, levles to autism?
Thanks!
My name is Ana Caroline, but evey one calls me AnaC. for short :). He doesn't have an aide, hes smart. I mean seriously, he has all A's. In Spanish hes done all the extra credit so hes above an A! I've had Spanish in my home all my life and I'm braley making an A.
We didn't have school Friday because of flooding with hurrican Ivan or what not. But tommrow I'll make an effort to say "hi, hello, hey" to him in the hall.
Memehegan - It's good that you got Spanish for your son, who'd known that he'd be better in Spanish than English.
I have acouple questions - Does high functioning mean the child is talkative? Are there like, levles to autism?
Thanks!
lillypad
09-20-2004, 06:46 PM
Hi AnaC. What a darling girl you are! My son is 25 and was blessed to have firiends like you at 13 going on 14!
All I can say about levels of functioning is this - your new friend with autism can have as many levels of functioning as you or your best friend do! For instance, you may be good at math, and your best friend is good at writing. I guess what I am saying is that although we might be able to find a "list" that addresses functioning, the bottom line is that we are all such individuals. That's the beauty in it all! What I have found over the years is that my son is more alike than different from others without autism - in the basics, that is - he loves his friends and finds unpredictable ways of showing it; the activities he enjoys are not unlike others his age - going to the movies, getting coffee, listening to music (unfortunately he's not very flexible with that! but then again, his sister, who is not autistic isn't either! ) As far as talking talking - you know what I mean! - having conversations gets easier the better we know someone. My son has a language of his own, he has learned to communicate in a way that serves him best. We on the outside have to learn to interpret! For instance, he doesn't understand personal pronouns and talks about himself in the third person - He did a really good job, or He doesn't want to! To an outsider it can be pretty confusing. But those who know his language know he is saying I did a really good job, or I don't want to!
When my son was younger, we (me, along with his sister and lots of support people) started a Circle of Friends for him - he still has relationships with some of those people today. Making friends is usually difficult for people with autism. If you develop an interest in doing that when you get to know your new friend, I might be able to point you in the right direction.
You are a remarkable young woman, Ana. :angel:
All I can say about levels of functioning is this - your new friend with autism can have as many levels of functioning as you or your best friend do! For instance, you may be good at math, and your best friend is good at writing. I guess what I am saying is that although we might be able to find a "list" that addresses functioning, the bottom line is that we are all such individuals. That's the beauty in it all! What I have found over the years is that my son is more alike than different from others without autism - in the basics, that is - he loves his friends and finds unpredictable ways of showing it; the activities he enjoys are not unlike others his age - going to the movies, getting coffee, listening to music (unfortunately he's not very flexible with that! but then again, his sister, who is not autistic isn't either! ) As far as talking talking - you know what I mean! - having conversations gets easier the better we know someone. My son has a language of his own, he has learned to communicate in a way that serves him best. We on the outside have to learn to interpret! For instance, he doesn't understand personal pronouns and talks about himself in the third person - He did a really good job, or He doesn't want to! To an outsider it can be pretty confusing. But those who know his language know he is saying I did a really good job, or I don't want to!
When my son was younger, we (me, along with his sister and lots of support people) started a Circle of Friends for him - he still has relationships with some of those people today. Making friends is usually difficult for people with autism. If you develop an interest in doing that when you get to know your new friend, I might be able to point you in the right direction.
You are a remarkable young woman, Ana. :angel:
Kathy287
09-20-2004, 09:25 PM
AnaC,
it is great to hear that you are reaching out. My son is 12 and high functioning, in fact, he is so high functioning the rest of the kids in school don't know anything. When my kids were younger, I drove van for special needs children, it gave both of my kids a different view. They both look past the outside of a person which is what I see you doing. I commend you on wanting to get to know this young man in your class. Sometimes they may look a little different, or act a little different, but if you take the time to get inside and get to know them, it is worth it!
Kathy
it is great to hear that you are reaching out. My son is 12 and high functioning, in fact, he is so high functioning the rest of the kids in school don't know anything. When my kids were younger, I drove van for special needs children, it gave both of my kids a different view. They both look past the outside of a person which is what I see you doing. I commend you on wanting to get to know this young man in your class. Sometimes they may look a little different, or act a little different, but if you take the time to get inside and get to know them, it is worth it!
Kathy
concerned grand
09-21-2004, 03:34 PM
Hi, I would be proud to have you as a son! Just a suggestion-try sign language if the boy knows it. My granddaughter is 8. She uses sign language and the second grade class are all learning to sign! Great school!
Concerned Grand
Concerned Grand
SheRa
09-22-2004, 03:59 PM
Hi Ana,
Just because a child has an aide doesn't mean he's not smart. My son is also very smart (not straight A's but honor roll) but he has a lot of problems with attention and that's why he needs an aide. He gets sidetracked a lot.
I'm glad you got through the hurricane okay that must have been scary! :eek:
High functioning (in my sons case) means he can interact with other people, that he can take care of a lot of things for himself, that kind of thing. My son talks a lot. He has a lot of regular language he just likes to talk about what he likes to talk about (most of the time). A lot of people are very friendly to him but he really only has a few real friends that like call and stuff. He takes care of our animals in our home, he likes to swim and ride bikes and shoot hoops. He LOVES wrestling and spongebob squarepants. LOL
He is very into music (just like a regular teenager). He can play the piano by ear. He likes everyone and loves all his teachers. He does get real tired of work though he'd rather talk to his friends in his class.
A lot of people don't realize he has issues until they talk to him for a few minutes. He's a very happy kid and loves to talk to everyone around him. :wave:
Hi Shera!
My name is Ana Caroline, but evey one calls me AnaC. for short :). He doesn't have an aide, hes smart. I mean seriously, he has all A's. In Spanish hes done all the extra credit so hes above an A! I've had Spanish in my home all my life and I'm braley making an A.
We didn't have school Friday because of flooding with hurrican Ivan or what not. But tommrow I'll make an effort to say "hi, hello, hey" to him in the hall.
Memehegan - It's good that you got Spanish for your son, who'd known that he'd be better in Spanish than English.
I have acouple questions - Does high functioning mean the child is talkative? Are there like, levles to autism?
Thanks!
Just because a child has an aide doesn't mean he's not smart. My son is also very smart (not straight A's but honor roll) but he has a lot of problems with attention and that's why he needs an aide. He gets sidetracked a lot.
I'm glad you got through the hurricane okay that must have been scary! :eek:
High functioning (in my sons case) means he can interact with other people, that he can take care of a lot of things for himself, that kind of thing. My son talks a lot. He has a lot of regular language he just likes to talk about what he likes to talk about (most of the time). A lot of people are very friendly to him but he really only has a few real friends that like call and stuff. He takes care of our animals in our home, he likes to swim and ride bikes and shoot hoops. He LOVES wrestling and spongebob squarepants. LOL
He is very into music (just like a regular teenager). He can play the piano by ear. He likes everyone and loves all his teachers. He does get real tired of work though he'd rather talk to his friends in his class.
A lot of people don't realize he has issues until they talk to him for a few minutes. He's a very happy kid and loves to talk to everyone around him. :wave:
Hi Shera!
My name is Ana Caroline, but evey one calls me AnaC. for short :). He doesn't have an aide, hes smart. I mean seriously, he has all A's. In Spanish hes done all the extra credit so hes above an A! I've had Spanish in my home all my life and I'm braley making an A.
We didn't have school Friday because of flooding with hurrican Ivan or what not. But tommrow I'll make an effort to say "hi, hello, hey" to him in the hall.
Memehegan - It's good that you got Spanish for your son, who'd known that he'd be better in Spanish than English.
I have acouple questions - Does high functioning mean the child is talkative? Are there like, levles to autism?
Thanks!