140 likes | 909 Views
The Importance of Friendship. Friends allow us to grow emotionally by accepting us for who we are and appreciating and celebrating our strengths. Making and keeping friends is a problem for students with autism spectrum and similar disorders. Signs to Be Aware Of ….
E N D
The Importance of Friendship Friends allow us to grow emotionally by accepting us for who we are and appreciating and celebrating our strengths.
Making and keeping friends is a problem for students with autism spectrum and similar disorders.
Signs to Be Aware Of … • Students who seem to be marginalized – excluded from social situations. • Students who shy away from less structured opportunities for play (recess, hallways, gym). • Students who do not carry friendships outside the school environment (ask parents about this at the IEP meeting).
Problems Connected to ASD and Similar Disorders • Increased loneliness in adolescence • High levels of depression • Higher than average rate of suicide • Problems of social isolation in adulthood • Problems of significant family dependency into adulthood • Lack of intimacy
How a Teacher Can Help … • Encourage the student to join after-school clubs where the social setting is smaller. • If the student has a particular interest, help her find a friend who shares that interest. • Consider finding the student an adult mentor in the school who appreciates the student’s unique nature. Any positive relationship outside of the immediate family can help develop friendship-making skills.