What I am thinking

[Guest guest]

As I read about all the concerns about schools not providing this and that

therapy, I certainly sympathize. But, as I look back I also think about all the

things my son with autism received and which all stopped when he aged out. I am

fortunate that initially I lived in a state that believed in early intervention

(Missouri) and I really am a believer in that.

I think his lack of violence today can be attributed a lot to starting early

but it also can be attributed to getting away from and not having to understand

all the things going around him...people working on different things, some

screaming, some banging their heads, some humming a tune, some sanding in the

sheltered workshop. Can you understand...it was noisy...it was confusing...it

was stressful. Those were days in an institution with a large number of

persons--all with autism.

When I helped my son leave that frightening environment for a peaceful

apartment and a companion to care for him through HCS then I saw a different

son. So much has to do with planning a peaceful and not too confusing

environment.

We need to look at who is around those with autism in the classroom, or for

adults who is in the sheltered workshop or day program. What is everyone doing?

How confusing must what is happening be for someone without an understanding of

social skills and who can not figure out very well what is going on.

The programs many adults go to (and sometimes children too) assume the ability

to be able to make choices and socialize. Then when our individuals lash out

they are kicked out of the program.

That is one good reason why I advocate for an adult waiver. Our individuals

are not like the Downs people, the physically involved individuals, those with

dementia, those with substance abuse issues. People with autism are part of

their own world. We keep trying to bring them into our own world, especially in

programs where they just don't fit. We need to look at what they need and what

they are attempting to tell us.

Just wanted to share.

Martha