My Child has Aspergers Syndrome, Does Yours?

Wow! Thanks. I'm definitely going to try the gradual introduction. We knew that she needed warning, but we didn't think about it being a gradual transition. We just thought by telling her it was coming was enough. I'm going to try just what you said. The teacher is willing to help us with it too, so I'll send copies of the paper with her to school. This helped tremendously.

I have been told as well that it is rare for a girl to have autism. Thanks for your suggestion.

Thank you so much. Anything is helpful at this point. I appreciate it.

It is great to hear from someone who is battling the same issues. You gave me great advice that I need to put to use. She worked when an occupational therapist before when she would refuse to color in pre-school. It seems that she needs one again. Thanks,

Hi Momma B, We have been able to overcome the lined paper issue. Luckily her teacher decided what is important is that she does the work not what paper it is on. We took our time getting her used to it. Her anxiety came from not being able to make it look right on the paper. Right to her was how her teacher made it look. We finally got through to her that a 5 year old just learning to write isn't going to be able to make it look just like her teachers. I remind her of this still when she gets mad about how something turns out. I find that it isn't her trying to be stubborn or difficult it is just her anxiety that takes over and this usually comes from her wanting it to look right. Anyway, as far as your daughter, hopefully you have understanding teachers to work with her. Maybe set a goal together that says this week we can use 4 lines, next week 3 and then 2 and then 1. Maybe if she isn't rushed into it, it will help keep her from resisting. Also, remind her that it doesn't have to look perfect. Don't stress over the neatness. Allow her to just do it as she does. It is quite frustrating as a parent/teacher, but I think it is best to accomodate the aspie rather than having her accomadate you or her teacher. I am learning that parenting an aspie requires a great amount of compromise on everyone's part. Another thing that the school should be able to offer you is O.T Therapy. They can have an occupational therapist come to her once a week or more often if necessary to help work her through this issue. Fine motor skills are tough for a person with Aspergers and the Therapist should be able to help your daughter through this. Baby steps each and every day! Good luck. I'm sorry I don't have a magical answer. I'm learning as I go too!