Thursday, August 19, 2010

Video - Can you speak Autism?

A first...a VIDEO! This is a video of a conversation with Nicky last night. It was totally impromptu and is proof that I now speak "Autism" thanks to years of amazing parent training and intensive behavior intervention. In this little clip there is a secret conversation taking place between Nicky and I. Just before I turned the camera on Nicky was pacing and his frustration was escalating. He is telling me that he could implode any minute and needs my help. I get him to sit, and I am responding by redirecting him, getting him focused and talking about something of interest to him, presenting familiar boundaries, giving positive reinforcement, redirecting and focusing on his strengths. THIS IS TYPICAL INTERACTION THAT HAPPENS ALL DAY EVERYDAY. If not for the training Nicky and I have gotten this situation would have spiraled into a melt down or 1 hour tantrum, instead his mood shifts from the start of the conversation to the end. Amazing!
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8 comments:

  1. I just watched the video of Nicky. That's so amazing! It's neat to see him in action. It's been 5 years now since I was there last, and I don't remember any real conversation going on. It's hard to believe how much he's grown. And you look and sound great! I miss you!

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  2. Thanks! It is amazing. As far as my look...ah not so good. It was late and I running on empty! But I love the kind words.

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  3. Wow, Donna. You are amazing...as always. I felt as if I were back in your kitchen. What a joy to see how far Nicky has come thanks to you and your advocacy. He is a very special young man and you and Evyn are very, very special young ladies. xox pru

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  4. hi Donna,

    it is me, casey. i watched your video of nicky and i was amazed at how his behavior changed. I think you guys are special and i wish everyone had a mother like you.

    say hi to nicky from me.
    casey

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  5. Casey and Pru, we love you too! Thank you for caring and for sharing. I am always so happy to read what you guys have to say. It's so important to get feedback :)

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  6. Dear Donna, Thank you very much for sharing your information about Nicky to us. It really helps us connect to you in a better way and understand the struggles and sacrifices for him. You're a very strong and brave woman and I respect you for your love and dedication towards Nicky.

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  7. Thanks for being so open so that I can learn from your example.

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  8. I have looked over your site alot inthe past, but just watched my first videos. my son is 6 with ASD and you are inspiring me to stay focused. I could see alot of my son in Nicky. It makes me both sad and happy. I have cried almost every day for five years. People say I am a an amazing mother and advocate for my child. I do everything I am supposed to. I feel that no one will ever truly understand and it isolates me. What gives you strength? Do you still cry in bed about his future? I feel I will be lost inthis sadness forever...and of course I do not wnt to be...for myself or for my children.

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