iPods, Fuzz, Horses, Ed. Tips

The Fraser Child & Family Center in Minneapolis found a new way to reach ASD students: through headphones and iPods. The devices play music and videos to teach these students how to fit in. Fraser staff came up with the idea of programming iPods to act as an electronic substitute for “that missing [inner) voice for those with Asperger's, the voice that governs appropriate behavior. Staff have helped students create short videos and slide shows on how to behave in different social settings: How to carry on a conversation; how to respect other people’s boundaries and think before they speak; and others. The Autism Society of America says similar projects are popping up around the country, and include adaptations for smart phones, Palm Pilots and other devices.

Photo courtesy of liza31337 (flickr.com)

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The Horse Boy, a documentary, examines the relationship between the director’s young son with autism and horses, following the director’s family through Outer Mongolia, where it is believed that the first horse riders lived. Alex too seems to like horses. He’s even learned to like the helmet he has to wear to ride one.

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“Have you noticed Alex’s upper lip?” Jill asks. I hadn’t, but I do. A fine brown fuzz. Wow. At age 11? Check out this book on personal care for those with autism and Asperger’s.

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A piece of mine on Alex’s education — tips and such — will go up shortly at iteachautism.com.

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The YAI Network in New York will present a full-day conference with Dr. Tony Attwood, “The Complete Guide to High Functioning Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome Making Friends and Managing Feelings,” on Monday, October 19, 8:15
a.m. to 4:30 p.m at the McGraw Hill Auditorium at 1221 Avenue of the Americas in New York City. There is no on-site registration, and seats are becoming limited. Register online here.