"Circle of Friends" planning for autism: update in post #7

[Fay]

We are thinking of starting up a "Circle of Friends" to assist with planning for DS1, after being inspired by a 2007 article in the ASA Advocate. I've found other articles like this one that explain how to set one up.

Has anyone here ever included peers in planning for your child? DS1 already has a few good friends who look out for him at school. I would like to empower these friends by being more open about DS1's needs and hearing their ideas about what could help him. DS1 has been fully mainstreamed since the beginning of 2nd grade, and 3rd grade was a very difficult year for him academically, emotionally and socially. I'm looking for creative ways to make 4th grade a positive experience for him.

Edited by Fay - 2/11/12 at 7:15pm

[Fay]

OK, I guess I'll post an update when we get this going. I'm meeeting with a social worker this week, and this is one item that I need to discuss.

[kittynurse]

This is an interesting idea! I don't have time to read the article but will later. It could apply to children with many different issues I think.

Martha

[BookGoddess]

I'm not familiar with the idea, but it's such an intriguing idea. DD developing and maintaining friendships is important to me. I'm looking forward to your update.

[BookGoddess]

Originally Posted by kittynurse

This is an interesting idea! I don't have time to read the article but will later. It could apply to children with many different issues I think.

Martha

It can apply to children with other issues. I found this link online to a lady that has created such a group for her son who has a genetic disorder.


http://www.tsbvi.edu/Outreach/seehea...er06/jacob.htm

[Linda on the move]

We kind of had this informally with my DD last year. Her sister is only one grade behind her and they were in the same lunch period. The girl across the street is a year above her in school at gets her quirks, and helps her out with stuff and keeps on eye on her.

[Fay]

Update: Here's a blog article that explains Circle of Friends planning.  I think this intervention is very helpful for kids with all types of special needs.

[AbbyGrant]

Originally Posted by Fay 

Update: Here's a blog article that explains Circle of Friends planning.  I think this intervention is very helpful for kids with all types of special needs.

Thank you so much for posting this!  My son is a bit young for this, but it's something I'd love to implement in the future.  

[fiddlefern]

I'm going to share this link at my son's next IEP mtg.  He's getting a re-evaluation because of his recent Asperger's dx.  Thanks for sharing!

[friendly fire]

thank you so much for posting this!