What My Kid Did
Kyle earned the 5th Grade Social Studies award at his public school. He aced all tests, PLUS memorized & wrote 5-6 sentence essay answers...in the regular classroom. We are so excited b/c handwriting is a big challenge for him (former 24-week preemie---low shoulder tone/fine motor issues). It built his confidence to be part of the class, doing typical work. (11yo..ASD)
He also participated in the Wax Museum. He chose to be John James Audubon (he loves birds & has memorized 250+ bird calls!). He researched Audubon, used props & recited a script to museum visitors. See pic!
How It Happened
For the Wax Museum, the "typical" reading & writing teachers did not automatically include him, b/c he does those subjects 1:1 in the Resource Room. When I saw their timeline for the project in the 5th grade newsletter, I asked Kyle's team if we could participate. They said WHY NOT? He read about Audubon, watched a PBS special about him, and we wrote the script together. His aide wrote out the museum details (where he'd stand, how long visitors would come by, where he could sit and rest, etc.). He was well prepared!
Advice
- If you see a project that the typical students are doing that you think your child can do (any part of), ASK!---and help tailor it to your child. Kyle won't initiate telling you his thoughts, but he's a GOOD reader & reciter. He was beaming to be part of the event with his peers.
