work with autism spectrum disorders

[Guest guest]

Dear Judy, , Kim, , Joan, , Eileen, , and others,

This is wonderful to begin to hear about everyone's work. I am hooked on

working with this population - though so far mine has been mostly very

young children with PDD and ASD, not Aspergers. Have worked with a

hyperlexic child however. The school where I worked used the TEACCH

methodology, a structured (but not as structured as ABA) system, with many

visual prompts. As an art therapist, I worked to fit the " structure " of an

open-ended art activity into the structure of the TEACCH format. Much more

to be said here. Also, I found that music with a clear beat, and body

movement combined with eye tracking movements (from one source) in rhythm

to the music were very organizing and calming for many children......a

tense, hyper active body became soft and seated. Maintained eye contact for

greater lengths of time. Communication avenues were a constant challenge -

clay work and hand manipulation activities often began to create a zone in

which hand pairing/mirrroring led to eye contact, which led to turn-taking

type play. This kind of back and forth was able to be maintained for longer

and longer periods. So much more to talk about..... As for some resources,

I've been finding the DDR lecture series very stimulating. Also, there is a

seminar at Mt Sinai (NYC) on Sunday the 13th of Nov.

I look forward greatly to the ongoing discussion in this forming group.

Thank you everyone.

a Rooney, MFA, MPS, ATR-BC

(my husband's name ( Rooney) is attached to the e-mail address -

don't be misled)

Rooney

magnetix@...

new york ny