I conduct an autism simulation and provide tips on interacting with Pamela. Most children are stunned by Pamela's sensory challenges. For chance encounters in public, some parents present business cards explaining autism. Timers and clocks warn them of pending transitions. Social stories helped Pamela follow her special diet, cooperate during check-ups and change classrooms at homeschooling cooperative classes.
Children cope using relaxation techniques and adaptations.
When signs of frustration appear, leaving over-stimulating situations prevents tantrums. Recently assigned oral presentations in her homeschooling cooperative, Pamela's difficulty verbalizing gave me qualms. I helped her compose the report, including details on music and food. Pamela wrote and color-coded key words, snipped pictures from magazines and colored drawings. We recorded an audio tape of Pamela reading her report and created a poster with words and pictures that followed the same order as her report.