The reason children on the autism spectrum do not enjoy pretend play is based on how their brains see the world. Pretend play requires putting yourself in someone’s shoes and talking and acting as if you were another person. Children with autism spectrum disorders usually struggle with the ability to see outside of themselves.
Autism / Asperger’s and Pretend Play
Watch out for children do not show an interest in pretend play (such as feeding a baby doll) by about age 2. That is a potential sign of an autism spectrum disorder. Kids with autism tend to pick games that engage their senses and avoid games that ask them to pretend, a new study finds. Researchers found that children with autism were naturally drawn to activities that get them moving or allow them to watch moving objects. On the other hand, arts and crafts, and games that required pretending were the least popular with these same children.
Why do you think this is true? If you think you know the answer, email us your guess. Also check back here tomorrow for the fascinating explanation.
Controversial Student Athlete Standards – Natick MA
Some schools around the country have been raising the sports eligibility standards. For example the Natick Public Schools in Natick, MA have raised the academic standards for its athletes. They decided to send a message to student athletes that academics come first. If a student doesn’t pass all of their classes, they lose eligibility. As a result of the increased academic demands, 43 students out of more than 500 were deemed ineligible due to failing a class or receiving an incomplete. Previously Natick averaged 6 to 9 academically ineligible students per term. The intended result is to put the emphasis on having their education be their first priority.
Students who are removed from teams have to meet with coaches, guidance counselor, and parents to come up with an improvement plan. These students are then ineligible for the remainder of the term as well as the following term.
What do you think of these new rules?
Winter Weather Safety Tip #3: Hat & Gloves
Winter Weather Safety Tip #3: Wear hat and gloves also to prevent body heat loss. Most of the body’s heat escapes through the head.
Winter Weather Safety Tip #2: Dress In Layers
Winter Weather Safety Tip #2: Dress in layers to prevent body heat loss.
Board Games and Math Achievement
Research shows playing board games with kids have a major impact on math achievement. Dice and spinners strengthen understanding of probability and counting while games with money teach how to count and make change.
Strategy To Stop Homework Meltdown #2
Schedule time for play or unstructured activities so your kids can process their busy day. It may be overwhelming or draining to spend 6 hours in a classroom and then directly do 2 hours of homework.
Socialize Asperger’s Children
It’s important to get Asperger’s children to socialize as often as possible. Sports and play dates are great ways to get these kids included.
Typing – Learning How to Type
QUESTION: Hi I just ran into your Y3K Tutor In Your Home page. I was looking for information on typing classes. By any chance could you help out? I would appreciate it.
Sarah G. – Wellesley, MA
ANSWER: Great ways to learn how to type are from the various educational typing software games on the market. These games teach typing to people of all ages while having fun at the same time.
What Children Want The Most From Parents
Do you think you know what children want the most from their parents? Toys? Vacations? Money? Time together? Surveys show that children want for their parents to be less tired and stressed. This response beat out spending more time with their parents and wanting a bigger allowance. If you can reduce your stress and exhaustion, you may improve your relationship with your children.