What to say to Typical Kids?
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| Wed, 08-30-2006 - 7:03pm |
Well, I have a great guy in my life and he is going to meet the boys tomorrow night. Then, our kids are going to meet on Monday. His kids are typical, ages 5 and 7. Just thinking ahead, how do you explain to other kids your own childs difficulties so that they understand? Also, how do you do it in front of your own child not knowing if they understand what you are saying--in other words I don't want to make my son feel embarassed if maybe he understands what I am saying either. For example, I can hear myself saying Matty can't talk just yet, but he loves to play chase games and thinks it's a lot of fun when you clap and giggle with him.
Any input would be appreciated. Thanks, Valerie
PS--anyone else have a myspace page? i have pics of the boys on there and would love to share with others too. i'm karate_chick77, send me a message if your on there!

Hey Val!
I was just thinking of you today.
I think you have the tone right. Casually explain that he can't talk yet and thinks a little differently, but don't make a huge deal out of it. I don't know if your "fella"
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I agree, unified is good. But what do you say to not make it a big deal? Something like he can't talk yet type of thing? How do you explain it without making it sound like a big deal to a little kid?
~V
I remember I'd say "He's working on talking, he's learning. But he's great at numbers and letters and video games!" Part of a whole conversation, without really highlighting it. Many kids will not think all that much of it if you don't present it as one.
Sara
ilovemalcolm
Yes. what Sara said.
If you make it the focus of who he is:
visit my blog at www.onesickmother.com
Hey there val. I was thinking about you too.
Ditto what the others said. As for it being a big deal to little kids, you will be amazed at how accepting they generally are. In my experience it really hasn't been a big deal to them.
I also believe in the open honest approach but in a kind way. So if they ask questions like "why does matty do this or that" just be honest but use kid language. Often I tell kids that they think or learn differently. That they are very smart and good at x,y,z but sometimes they are still working on A.
Most likely the 7 yo at least will have some experience in school with kids who are different. The main focus now it to teach kids in inclusive environments and I am sure they have been exposed to some kids that are different. Often when this is the case I find kids are extremely accepting.
Eventually if they continue to be a part of your family, you may want to get them some books on a kids level on understanding autism.
Renee