This week we began our discussion about what it's like to have a sibling with autism. I'm excited to dive more in depth with this topic. Seeing as one of our LINKS has personal experience with this, and that you will be able to relate with this subject the most, I expect very well thought-out and written assignments.
To begin I would like you to listen to this NPR radio piece. I love the perspective that it presents. The sister of the boy with autism shows her frustrations as well as her love for her brother. You will hear a very sincere glimpse into her life as a sibling of someone with autism. The clip is 7 minutes long, so make sure you set the time aside to listen.
Now I want you to read this poem. I think this poem is so powerful. I can feel the hurt in her words, but at the same time I can see glimmers of acceptance for who her brother is.
Finally, I want you to watch the following video. I have been SO excited to show you this. Some of you may have already seen it, as it went viral on Facebook around Christmas. As usual, Mr. VanLaan laughed at me while watching this because it made me cry. It touched my heart so much! While the boys are both young, you truly have hope that they will continue to love and support each other as they grow older. Conner is just a true inspiration! (Plus it's a video about a triathlon, which I love!) This may not be a story about a sibling with autism, but it is a story about a disability and how a brother shows love and acceptance. As we have been discussing, this is most important.
To begin I would like you to listen to this NPR radio piece. I love the perspective that it presents. The sister of the boy with autism shows her frustrations as well as her love for her brother. You will hear a very sincere glimpse into her life as a sibling of someone with autism. The clip is 7 minutes long, so make sure you set the time aside to listen.
Now I want you to read this poem. I think this poem is so powerful. I can feel the hurt in her words, but at the same time I can see glimmers of acceptance for who her brother is.
Finally, I want you to watch the following video. I have been SO excited to show you this. Some of you may have already seen it, as it went viral on Facebook around Christmas. As usual, Mr. VanLaan laughed at me while watching this because it made me cry. It touched my heart so much! While the boys are both young, you truly have hope that they will continue to love and support each other as they grow older. Conner is just a true inspiration! (Plus it's a video about a triathlon, which I love!) This may not be a story about a sibling with autism, but it is a story about a disability and how a brother shows love and acceptance. As we have been discussing, this is most important.
The last part of my blog this week is to introduce our Star LINK of the Month- Kayla!
My name is Kayla Clark. My favorite thing to do is be with my family. I absolutely love playing with my little cousins at my cottage in the summer. I love to wake board and tube too.
Another one of my hobbies is playing basketball and volleyball. Right now I am on a 14 year old national club volleyball team called DFFO (Dead Frog- Far out). I am on our school’s “A” team for basketball as well. Another big part of my life is being a Christian. I love going to youth group and praising God!
The hardest part of LINKS so far has been when my peers have an off day. I have only experienced a couple of these so far but it is very hard to see them struggling.
My favorite part of LINKS has been seeing my peers calm down and relieve their stress in the sensory room. When they do their exercises they are in a totally different world. I wish they could feel calm and relaxed like that all the time.
I am hoping to learn more techniques on how to calm my peers down. I am also hoping to gain my peers full trust. I want to make a difference for kids with autism.
Thanks and congratulations to Kayla! We love having you as a part of LINKS!
Don't forget to check the homework tab and have a great week!
Mrs. VanLaan
Don't forget to check the homework tab and have a great week!
Mrs. VanLaan