We have a child with high-functioning autism and we try to integrate him into some 'mainstream' activities. What are your suggestions for how to handle the challenges and lack of understanding you encounter? Today, the teacher of his dance class came out of his class in front of several other parents criticized his lack of listening and following directions and threatened to throw him out of class if i did not "talk to him" and fix his behavior. He is going through several transitions… read more
I regards to the teacher we let them know ahead of time so we can avoid that kind of situation. We tell them what to expect so they know there may be issues.
With the child we just prepare them as well and telling them to try their best. We tell them if they try the activity a few times and if they do not like it they do not have to do it. I know some parents make the child finish an activity they have signed up and paid for but that does not work with ASD children.
I'm lucky that we live in a very small community in the mountains. When we first moved here, anyone that would be meeting my chld(ren) I would let them know that Marty was different, that he was Autistic. I would let them know, as best I could, what to expect at their first meeting. Everyone has been very nice and accepting of him. He started highschool this year, so I went and met his teachers and had a brief talk with each of them. So far, it seems to be going very well!
I would suggest that you 'pre'pare each instructor ahead of time. If they seem to have any reservations, find a different instructor. Find one who is willing to take on the 'challenges' that an Autistic child may present. A loving, caring, patient environment is always best for our beautiul children!
To be honest, we gave up on sports, scouts, martial arts, and just about everything else. If it's not the coaches or instructors it's the other kids and their parents.
The teacher said something in front of others. Big no no in my book. Is the teacher aware your child has autism? That maybe she needs to instruct her students as individuals because everyone learns differently. I would be having a quiet discussion with the teacher