Advocacy isn’t the main purpose of A Special Space.  Education for both NTs and those with ASDs is our focus.  But after reading one too many stories today about bullying and abuse of special needs children by teachers, advocacy and education have combined.

It’s time to educate my state and the nation about the importance of giving a voice to those who have none.  It’s time to advocate for cameras in the classrooms.

Teachers are an amazing gift to our children.  They work hard, love our kids, and guide them on their journey in life—most of them.  The few that make the news are the ones who are burnt out, stressed out, under-educated, under-supported and have no business in the classroom.  They, the few, are hurting our children and giving other teachers a bad name.

For the protection of our children and the teachers, it’s … Read More »

We take normalcy for granted. Millions of bits of data and sensory input surround us every minute; yet, we instinctively know how to filter and focus without thinking about it, much like we do not think to make hearts beat or eyes blink.

People born with Autism do not process their surroundings as most do; it is physically (mechanically, chemically) impossible for them to do so. Over time, adults have learned how deal with the overwhelming episodes, but have historically had to do so on their own. To help children who happen to have autism, we need to understand what they experience. Understanding breeds compassion.

Things educators should know about what the parents, not just the child, need.

1)  I’m sorry.

I will be saying this to many of you many, many times over the next 10 years. I will say this to you probably weekly, if not more. And I really am. I’m sorry.

I’m sorry because I am the reason you have my child in your class. I fought for him to be mainstreamed because all of the doctors and specialists told me that being in the least restrictive environment among peer models would be best for my son’s development.

I’m sorry because I know that you aren’t trained for this.