Over the last few years, I have had several parents ask me, "Should I tell my child that he/she has autism?" BAM! Just like that, waiting for my answer.
In my first few years as an SLP, I remember thinking that it was a fairly cut and dry "yes." I felt that the students deserved the right to know why they thought, acted, and felt the way they did, and that it was unfair for them to be left in the dark about it. Wondering. Curious. Confused. Scared.
But now things are different. I have a different perspective. I have had more conversations with others. I have more experiences.
Each family is unique and at a different place in their journey. There is no rehearsed conversation that can be had. In fact, there are so many other dynamics that come in to play other than the conversation. It's hard to know what's happening behind closed doors. It's hard to know if the family needs additional supports outside of the sped team. It's hard to know the current relationship between the parents and child.
Just a few months ago, a parent approached me with the same question. I didn't give her a concrete answer but rather shared with her that it was her decision to make, it would be the right one, and that I would support it, whatever it was. She paused for a few seconds, smiled, and thanked me. I told her that I would be happy to provide her with a list of books that she may find helpful, so I did, and I thought I would share them so that you have a resource to share at your finger tips (or rather, a few clicks of your computer keys).
Different Like Me by Jennifer Elder
In this book, eight-year-old Quinn has AS. He shares about historical figures that also had AS. The book uses child-friendly language and focuses on inspirational figures in the areas of science, math, art, literature, philosophy, and comedy.
My Autism Book: A Child's Guide to Their Autism Spectrum Diagnosis by Tamar Levi
This book is written by a doctor and children's author. It is geared for children ages 5+ and uses colorful pictures, from a child's perspective, to help parents explain autism in a positive way.
Can I Tell You About Asperger's Syndrome by Jude Welton
Adam, the character in this book, has Asperger's Syndrome (AS). He shares what AS is, how it feels, and struggles that people with AS have. He also shares about how others can help by focusing on talents and appreciating differences.
The Survival Guide for Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders (And Their Parents) by Elizabeth Verdick and Elizabeth Reeve
This book is a helpful resource for children who have autism and their parents; it is meant to be to be read together. It tackles questions children have and provides strategies for communication, making friends, and being successful in school. There are a number of areas highlighted such as diet, hygiene, sleep, etc. to support children, their family, and their team. There is also a section for parents that offers additional information.
In my first few years as an SLP, I remember thinking that it was a fairly cut and dry "yes." I felt that the students deserved the right to know why they thought, acted, and felt the way they did, and that it was unfair for them to be left in the dark about it. Wondering. Curious. Confused. Scared.
But now things are different. I have a different perspective. I have had more conversations with others. I have more experiences.
Each family is unique and at a different place in their journey. There is no rehearsed conversation that can be had. In fact, there are so many other dynamics that come in to play other than the conversation. It's hard to know what's happening behind closed doors. It's hard to know if the family needs additional supports outside of the sped team. It's hard to know the current relationship between the parents and child.
Just a few months ago, a parent approached me with the same question. I didn't give her a concrete answer but rather shared with her that it was her decision to make, it would be the right one, and that I would support it, whatever it was. She paused for a few seconds, smiled, and thanked me. I told her that I would be happy to provide her with a list of books that she may find helpful, so I did, and I thought I would share them so that you have a resource to share at your finger tips (or rather, a few clicks of your computer keys).
Different Like Me by Jennifer Elder
In this book, eight-year-old Quinn has AS. He shares about historical figures that also had AS. The book uses child-friendly language and focuses on inspirational figures in the areas of science, math, art, literature, philosophy, and comedy.
This book is written by a doctor and children's author. It is geared for children ages 5+ and uses colorful pictures, from a child's perspective, to help parents explain autism in a positive way.
Adam, the character in this book, has Asperger's Syndrome (AS). He shares what AS is, how it feels, and struggles that people with AS have. He also shares about how others can help by focusing on talents and appreciating differences.
This book is a helpful resource for children who have autism and their parents; it is meant to be to be read together. It tackles questions children have and provides strategies for communication, making friends, and being successful in school. There are a number of areas highlighted such as diet, hygiene, sleep, etc. to support children, their family, and their team. There is also a section for parents that offers additional information.
Autism, The Invisible Cord: A Sibling's Diary by Barbara Cain
Jenny is a 14-year-old girl who has a younger brother with autism. She shares what autism is, her worries, and her obstacles living with a sibling with autism.
No comments:
Post a Comment