Preschooler/pre K Support for Autism Spectrum

Updated on December 11, 2011
P.G. asks from San Antonio, TX
4 answers

Hi Mommas,

My little guy was evaluated this year as mild-moderate on the Spectrum. Social/Language processing issues. His intellect and speaking are fine. We started PPCD Preschool in late October (he was 4.5) and I've noticed some improvements. I also am noticing some differences in some social-play situations now that he's getting older. He's not very symptomatic at home at ALL. We don't really run into the "stereotype" challenges of Aspergers/Autism in terms of the big tantrums at home. But I'm hearing that he's having some issues with crying, rough play, etc. at pre-school.

EDIT: He does have an ARD, and we've really only just started. He's in the preschool program for Children with Disabilities - the ration of kids to teachers is 4-1. It's a very new situation - it's only been just under 2 months. I just want to do as much as I can to help him and understand how his brain works.

Are there any support systems out there for this age group? What I'm reading seems to focus on the slightly older ages, 7-10 and older, which isn't really helpful. The pre-school relationship is young and they are still getting to know each other, so I'm sure we'll get more feedback as time goes by. My son LOVES his preschool time. He talks about it all the time and is happy going to it and coming home.

I was a bit of a geek and social klutz as a kid...I don't know how to help him prepare for the "real world" of social interactions, the "rules", etc. Sometimes it's hard to process that he has issues cause he's so "not" stuck at home :( I sometimes worry that I'm doing something wrong or screwed him up by not having tons of friends and playdates, etc. when he was small.

Any input is appreciated. Thanks!

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Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

L.C.

answers from Dallas on

My son is 11 on the spectrum. I saw that you asked for support systems. Do you social skills help? There are MANY social skill groups around the metroplex that focus on all ages. You can join WARRIOR PARENTS on Facebook where you can ask anything and everything. There is a yahoo group called DFW MAFEA and the women are great at supporting and giving information. You can also email me and I will give you names of places and you can tell me in more detail what you need.
L. :)

1 mom found this helpful
Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

B.H.

answers from Dallas on

Does he have an ARD through the school district? He should have some sort of plans in place to help him with the social aspects of school.

One thing that helped my son (originally thought he was on the spectrum, but turns out his diagnosis was something else) was doing something called Social Stories. I'm sure that the special ed teachers at the school would have something like that available that you could do with him at home so improve his socialization skills. You might even be able to find something on line or in a bookstore.

1 mom found this helpful
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K.C.

answers from Dallas on

There is a parent support group at First Baptist Church Carrollton these mommas are very up to date on these types of issues you might want to contact them and get more info. Fbcc.org/women/exceptional moms

1 mom found this helpful
Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

M.G.

answers from Seattle on

I'm the parent of an autistic little boy, 5 who is also in preschool. Is it possible that perhaps there is a reason behind his issues? Such as too much stimulation, noise, brightness, etc? Could it be also that he prefers to work or play in smaller group situations? I don't foresee a preschool expecting perfection out of behavior out of any child anywhere on spectrum. I realize this preschool relationship is newer, have you tried setting up a conference to discuss these issues with the teacher(s)? Are you aware of their expectations of your child? One last question, have you tried social stories about his experiences in preschool?

1 mom found this helpful
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