LDS disAbilities Help

I recently came across "The Aspie Teen's Survival Guide" by J.D. Kraus. This helpful volume was written by Jeff Kraus, a college student with Asperger's syndrome. In it, he gives helpful, easy-to-understand advice about the following;

• School success
• Transitioning in a variety of situations
• Sensory sensitivity
• Motor skills and awkwardness
• Stress management
• Bullying
• Socializing and friendships
• Dating and relationships
• Obsessions and creativity
• Driving
• More important topics

Kraus' practical tips and information can help smooth the turbulent waters of adolescence for those on the spectrum.

When they're small, we want to protect our children from the harshness of the world. We carry them around, sterilize everything that touches the floor, and shield their eyes from the sun. It's a natural instinct, and allows us to put for the required effort to keep our children safe.

But they won't be infants forever. We have to learn restraint so they can develop the skills necessary to become adults. 

We begin as they learn to walk, holding ourselves back as they take small tumbles. This needs to continue as they learn to take more steps towards independence. 

A recent and disturbing

As parents, we want many of the same things for our children--to be happy, to be loved, and to do the right thing. Parents of children with special needs also have some additional wants--an independent future, inclusion, and typical milestones. These goals may seem impossible at times.

It happens. People make thoughtless remarks. You may feel your child has been excluded from activities or social events. The individual challenges you face may seem overwhelming with no relief in sight. 

The seeming unfairness of it all may cause you to react with anger. Take a minute, step back, and think.

Another theme mentioned by Dr. Temple Grandin in a recent talk was the importance of work. She believes higher functioning children with disabilities should have the responsibility of a job from the time they are 10-12 years old. 

This may sound like a violation of child labor laws, a dangerous situation, or unrealistic. Children no longer have paper routes for many very good reasons. But they may be able to walk dogs, water plants for people on vacation, babysit, or do yardwork. If you are genuinely looking, something can be found.

When you are working with someone with a disability, it's easy to see them as the special need. They are much more than that. We need to learn to look for strengths and focus on them. 

Many people with autism are very visual. They may be able to memorize long passages, or draw amazing pictures. Other children with disabilities may have an astounding sense of humor, have a gift for working wiht children, or demonstrate musical ability. 

Every child needs exposure to the arts, literature, science, and other areas of potential interest.