My 8 year old is on the Autism Spectrum and will be receiving his First Communion in about a month. We're struggling a bit with behavior at Mass. I realize this is a very real struggle for him, and I'm generally ok with the fact that there will be ups and downs. But First Communion is very important to him, and I really want to help prepare him socially.
We've read social stories that the school has given us, but I've never written one myself. I'm a little intimidated and don't know where to begin.
Have you ever written a social story for your child? Do you know a website that might help me do this?
http://www.educateautism.com/social-stories.html
Hope this is helpful and I've never written a social story for my child but I'm sure it will be rewarding and memorable.
Ask your child's teacher, or the school autism specialist, to help! Most teachers would be happy to help a student, especially for special life events like this. (And may even love to be invited as well!) If for some reason they won't, you can always make a social story by modeling one the school has used. Clip art some pictures onto a word document and type in your text. The most important part of the social story is reading it and discussing what will be happening at the event and what behaviors you expect from him. Even watching a video and talking about what is going on will help prepare him.
On a side note, if you are struggling with behaviors at home, ask your child's teacher for ideas. Many times they have resources to guide you, or some ideas or tricks that work at school.
I have no help for you, but I just want to tell you congrats for you and your son on his first communion!
