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Sunday, July 29, 2012

In Limbo

Writing a new blog post has been on my mind lately, but I couldn't figure out how to do it or what to write about. I mean, we're in limbo right now, so what's there to write about? Well, as it turns out, there's a lot.

Being in limbo has forced me to pay closer attention to my children, actually. Because I'm with them practically 24/7, I'm noticing more about their personalities, especially Sam. He's really been struggling lately with his little sister's attitude toward him. He says she doesn't like him because he's "mental". In turn, I've noticed Kaydee does get rather impatient with him.

Here's a little example. Sam and Kaydee were enjoying watching some Annoying Orange videos on Youtube the other night. Kaydee got tired of watching them, so she closed the browser window and left the computer, but Sam still wanted to watch. He was trying to figure out how to get back to where they were, and he ordered Kaydee to help him. Of course, she didn't want to, because he didn't ask nicely, but when I asked Sam to rephrase, she still resisted. 

"Just type in Annoying Orange," she snapped. 

"I did! But the ones we were watching aren't coming up!" Sam shouted back. He was starting to get amped up, so I looked to Kaydee and whispered, "Honey, please."

She stomped over to the computer and yelled at him to let go of the mouse, and in a few clicks, she got him to the right place. 

Because it was late and they were both tired, I let it go. Sam was happy, and Kaydee moved on to playing by herself. However, I couldn't help but notice that all this strife could have been avoided had Kaydee just been more patient with Sam in the first place. 

Is that asking too much from a newly-turned eight year old? Maybe. But it isn't asking too much from me. 

Sometimes I find myself reacting to Sam's whining requests in the exact same way -- with impatience and disgust. Perhaps that's where Kaydee learned it. I'm not saying we should give in to every demand our Aspies make of us, but maybe just taking the time to listen to what he/she needs, even when we're busy, or we'd much rather be doing something else, would make a world of difference in how the rest of the day goes.

I've tried hard to curb that initial gut reaction and (dare I say it?) impulsivity that gets me in trouble with Sam. Gut reactions and impulsivity are what gets Sam into trouble, so why should I expect it to work when I do it? By taking a calming breath and picking my battles, I find the day can run a whole lot more smoothly.

Monday, March 26, 2012

My Asperger's articles

We have a lot of new Aspie parents on our My Little Expert discussion group on Facebook, so I decided to compile all my Asperger's articles into one blog post to make it easier for parents to find them!

Children with Asperger's Syndrome: Symptom Overview
Ever wondered what it's like to have Asperger's Syndrome? Learn the top five most common symptoms for children with an Asperger's Syndrome diagnosis.

Asperger's Syndrome: Early Warning Signs
Since Asperger's Syndrome is considered a social disability, it is easy to recognize in school-age children. However, there are some early warning signs to Asperger's Syndrome that can began in infancy.

Asperger's Syndrome: How to Teach Your Aspie Body Language
A common Asperger's Syndrome trait is a difficulty deciphering body language and tone of voice. My seven-year-old son, Sam, was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, and these are some tips for teaching your Aspie body language.

DSM-V: Asperger's Syndrome to Be Eliminated; Some Aspies Upset
The American Psychiatric Association plans to eliminate the diagnosis of Asperger's Syndrome in the DSM-V. What does this mean for people currently diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome?

Asperger's Syndrome: Understanding Your Literal Thinker
Do you ever wonder why your brilliant child with Asperger's Syndrome just doesn't understand a word you say? Maybe you aren't speaking his language...

Family Schedules: Setting Up Routines for Your Asperger's Syndrome Child
Children with Asperger's Syndrome thrive on routines and schedules. While it takes some willpower on your part, making a family schedule will help the time your child spends at home be more successful.

On Mother's Day, Celebrating Growth as the Mom of an Asperger's Syndrome Child
Finally I know, without a shred of doubt, that I am the best mother I can possibly be -- all because of my son's diagnosis of Asperger's Syndrome.

Top Six Asperger's Syndrome Books for Parents
Do you have a child recently diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, or do you just need additional resources? These six books helped me through the most troubling times with my Aspie son, Sam.


Safety Plan - an Essential Tool when Parenting an Asperger's Syndrome Child
Have you ever been in the middle of an Asperger's Syndrome meltdown? Having a good safety plan in place will make a world of difference for everyone involved.

"The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" and Its Portrayal of Asperger's Syndrome
"The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" is a national bestselling novel, narrated by Christopher, an autistic savant. Does the author actually understand Asperger's Syndrome or does he make sweeping generalizations about the disorder?

Back to School - My Aspie's Challenge
Heading back to school is a challenge for most students, but for those diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome, it can be especially difficult. Not only would my Aspie have a new teacher, but he was also facing a new school due to our move over the summer.

Asperger's Syndrome: How to Prevent a Meltdown
When you have a child with Asperger's Syndrome, one of the first things you'll need to know is how to prevent or diffuse a meltdown. You can learn to recognize the triggers and the physical cues to an impending tantrum and nip them in the bud.

Risperdal - Prescription Medication Review
Risperdal is an anti-psychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and symptoms of autism. My son Sam, who has Asperger's Syndrome, was on Risperdal for a year to help calm him and even out his moods.

Intuniv - Prescription Medication Review
Intuniv is a prescription medication used to treat ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) in children ages six to 17 years old. My eight-year-old son Sam, who has Asperger's Syndrome, was prescribed Intuniv to help with his poor impulse control.

Asperger’s Syndrome: How to Tell Your Aspie Grandpa Died
How do you tell your child with Asperger's Syndrome that his grandpa died? You start by reading these important tips by an experienced mother of an Aspie.