ASD and YES Program

[sharadoc]

Well, we decided to try it. We signed up our DS with ASD for a YES program, the Animation Magic one. I know he won't be able to do everything, and we hope he can stick with it, but if he only gets a little out of it we're happy.

DD took it last year and they have a great segment where they show you early animation techniques. You get to draw and spin cards on string, then spin viewers with cards inside. Some of you may appreciate how much a kid with ASD will love that!. He's a Disney animation fanatic so he should enjoy it.

Our biggest fear is that the instructor will be unable to handle it. DH will be there every step of the way.

What do you guys think - should DH let the instructor know so he doesn't call on DS to answer questions, or participate in things that DH knows he won't be able to do? I think that would be better than calling out his disability in front of the other students.

I'll let you know how it goes if anyone is interested.

 

[clanmcculloch]

DD13 did a YES class this past August. She was going through some pretty bad issues at the time and it was going to be very obvious that there was something going on with her/different about her so I made sure to let the instructor know quietly before the class began (I knew she wouldn't even say her name to the group so I figured I'd better explain right away). The instructor was wonderful with her and even got her to participate a bit. Even when she wasn't participating, she did get a lot out of the class as she's brought up all sorts of things discussed and presented during the class. It was great!

 

[Friend of a Mouse]

I would, just because it will help the instructor. I've shadowed some of the YES programs, and their instructors are amazing and very knowledgeable. It would not surprise me if they have at least some training or experience with this. The instructor may have already run into this before and already have some ideas in how to accommodate your son. Good luck!

 

[sharadoc]

Thanks for the advice. I think we'll let the instructor know and hope for the best! I just mostly want them to be aware that DH will be shadowing DS the whole time and not try to separate him. DS always has a shadow/aide in school so I'm sure that's what will make him most comfortable for this.

We're thinking positive! I'll let you know in a few weeks - he's going to the class 1/26.