Testing Limts

   The mind of an autistic child delves in two distinct realms of existence. The first involves their own thought processes and the inner directives to act according to their  needs. Left on their own, cetain fixations will occur allowing for limited growth and productivity. The second realm involves reacting to the world around them and their ability to assimilate infomation comming from outside etheir own sphere. Handled properly and with skill, the autistic person can function in society in a more socially acceptable manner. All individuals are different and the combination of these two forces determine the way the individual will be percieved by society at large.

Mood Swings Amplified

   The mood swings of a person with autism, tends to be disproportionately higher than the general population. Care must be taken to diffuse a quick build up of tension, before it gets out of hand. This allows for the opportunity to redirect this energy into something positive.  

Plan Ahead

Care must be taken to predict any situation likely to cause undue stress. With a lower capacity to process information, sensory overload must be kept to a minimum. The ego's fragile balance must remain intact to retain its barrier to further destruction.

Praise And Response

    A special link is held between the caregiver and autistic person. Treasure the relationship. Reciprical acknowledgement for your effort is sporadic at best.

Love and Firmness

____Autistic individuals need to be told that they are loved. Express your love consistantly.
____Keep tasks simple. Too much stimulus can lead to a mental breakdown.
                          
____Keep all tasks easy to accomplish. Small successfull steps allows the confidence needed for daily living.

Key To Discipline

Autistic individuals may favor one interest over all others. This interest may be used as an inducement or reward to learn news tasks.

Love And Firmness

    Autistic individuals need to be told that they are loved. be consistant regarding expressing your love.

Processing Information Overload

Keep tasks simple. Too much stimulus will lead to a breakdown.

Independence

I give David as much freedom as he can handle. He always does the shopping.

Developing Friendships

Instead of playing by himself, for hours on end, David is out playing with his friends.

First Signs

First signs in a high functioning 1 year old, may include lining up toys or objects; spending time alone; and the inablity to cuddle or show emotion.

Small Steps Big Results

Keep all tasks doable and easy to accomplish. These small successfull steps, pay huge divdends allowing the person to gain confidence in daily living.

Learning Life Skills

Today Davd and I, cleaned and valcumed a school, and we boh made $10, for one hours work.

Autism Traits

Social skills and the ability to focus are lacking. Musical and artistic abilities are heightened. Highly detailed drawings. Often in a world of their own.

Everyday Comes Another Miracle

His first A in a non-elective course ( Language Arts ). So what if it's special eduction. David is in the 8th. grade and first time in his life, he has more friends than I do. All people, including autistic, have special talents which surpass us all. Can't wait what David will teach me about life, when he gets home from school today.