Parents Magazine's November Issue had a beautiful story about a friendship formed between two preschoolers. One boy was on the autism spectrum; the other was not. The friendship developed at the Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore, MD at an inclusion based preschool program.
A quick search for Autism at Parents.com brings up a short article on what parents of typically developing children can do to help faciliate friendship with peer with an autism spectrum disorder.
Here is what they suggest:
1) Bond through simple child's play: I have seen that often the best games are the simplest. Pairing down the verbal components of games, and making the games more physical based (i.e. Tag) can help faciliate play.
2) Don't be afraid to ask questions: I agree with this one, but at the same time form a friendship with the parents before bombarding them. Ask what special skills their child might have, what their child likes, how can you help when they begin to fall apart.
3) Invite autistic peers to birthday parties: I have seen too many families reach the end of the school year and come to the realization that their child was never invited to a party. This is devestating. Invite them! Parents are pretty good at knowing when thier child has reached their limit and sometimes will bring a therapists along to help as well.
4&5) Don't give up & Don't Judge: They individuals are wonderful! Many want friends they just don't have all the tools to initate or maintain a friendship. :-)
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