Putting the Pieces Together: a Child's View of Autism 1. Painos

A 7 year-olds firsthand account of living with Autism, this piece brings forth a new understanding of living with Autism in today?s society. The young author has reached into herself, revealing her joy and her pain, so that others may see into the lives these children live. "Just as other kids do, I have likes and dislikes, fears, hopes, and dreams, but there is something very different about me; I have Autism. Like most kids with Autism, I have a hard time when I am around other people. I feel very uncomfortable, and I get very nervous when there are a lot of people around, especially in my classroom or out in the community. it?s sensory overload and I just want to get away! I still can?t ride a bike or skate, but I am getting better on my scooter. I tend say things that are perceived as rude because I do not have the social boundaries that others have. I also hand flap, finger flap, spin around, rock and pick at my nails when I get nervous or excited. Getting through the school day is tricky with all the changes, noises, and people. Even though there are some things that are really hard for me, there are things that I am really good at like painting, math, reading, spelling, computers, and video games. I love dolphins, and I want to rescue and train them when I grow up. I am not like the other kids at school. Though most kids don?t want to be my friend because of how I behave, I do have a few really good friends. All of my friends understand that I have Autism, and they don?t mind that I am different. I am hoping that this book will also help other people see what it?s like to have Autism . I just want people to understand that Autism is real, what Autism is, and to give me and other kids like me a chance."