A Little Perspective

Perspective can be a difficult things for kids on the autism spectrum. Ryan interprets the world so literally that it can be hard for him to see beyond what’s immediately in front of him. But not always. This wasn’t exactly a relaxing weekend in my house. The return of the NHL from a four-month lockout […]

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He Understands. Do I?

I learn some remarkable things about my son, from my son. Sometimes I learn about him from the recycle bin or from his school folder. The other day, I spied a piece of paper sitting on the dining-room table. Turning it over, I read the following: GOAL LETTER Write a letter to yourself describing one […]

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‘Tis the Season for Sharing

When Ryan retreats to his room and begins banging away at the computer keyboard, we never know quite what to expect. Often the result are exquisitely typed, perfectly aligned, mathematically correct NHL standings files for seasons that exist only in Ryan’s mind. The problem with those is that once in a while they don’t align […]

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What I Worry About

As Friday’s unspeakable tragedy unfolded in Newtown, I had the same reaction as many parents: A knee-buckling wave of nausea, followed by panic and a desire to hug my kids as soon as — and for as long as — possible. Veronica and I exchanged a hurried phone call and a series of texts to […]

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A Pleasant Non-Surprise

Ryan had his middle school choir concert this week, and it came off without a hitch. There my son stood, with all his classmates, stock-still on the risers singing four holiday-themed songs. He was an active participant, singing with emphasis and wanting to do a good job. This no longer surprises me, but it wasn’t […]

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