I am going into 11th grade. This year I want to work on doing some more work skills. I am at the start of doing internships at school. I want to be able to use my body at skills that help society. I am hopeful that I can really progress in moving with purpose and gain independence.
I also want to keep learning academics at school. I will attend English and science with my neurotypical peers. I will also take classes in special ed with many of my long time friends. I hope I can type well with my aides. It makes school so much better if I can type well.
Learning to be more regulated and handling myself better is my next goal. I think being able to be part of society with everybody included is important. I don’t always manage myself the best. I can get stressed out easily and occasionally have meltdowns or shutdowns. I have been doing exercises and sensory activities to make me more desensitized to stress. I am continually making progress like being able to shave and better handling the dentist but I want to get even better. I want to avoid my fight or flight reactions when I feel overwhelmed.
Lastly, I want to get better at writing and advocating. I am excited to promote a book I am in: Communication Alternatives in Autism in October. I will be presenting about supports at school. I am also proud to be a contributor on The Aspergian. It is making an impact on lots of people who don’t understand autism as a neurological condition. I also like the friends I have made with other autistic writers. Making autistic connections has been the best. It helps me feel I am not so alone as I often feel. I want to keep close friends with other autistics in my area and on line.
I am certain many blessings will come to me this year. May they come to you too.
My sister and me on the first day of school
I hope you both have a wonderful school year!
ReplyDeleteHi Philip! I just found your blog and want to thank you because it helps me understand what my great grandson is going through and how our family can help him. He is 3 years old and so far is nonverbal, but seems to understand much of what is said. I hope he can advance as you have done to have a life he can enjoy and goals he can achieve and ways to communicate with the world. Your story has given me hope. Thank you and know I hope you achieve all your goals.
ReplyDeleteHi Philip, I've come to you with a question because I value your opinion over a professional. Your mom may also have helpful advice. I'd like to know what role you feel consequences should have when trying to help a with a child/teen with autism.
ReplyDeleteI know there are unique challenges with being able to control your body..so what is helpful when you have a meltdown. What should we do if the meltdown hurts someone or property?
What consequences, if any, have helped you to consider actions more carefully?
Thank you for sharing your experience with us. I love to read your posts and hope you have an amazing school year. You are an inspiring young man.
So proud of you. You give me hope💜
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