Like many children on the autism spectrum, Ryan will occasionally say inappropriate things, either asking questions that are too personal (age is a common one) or off-base. He struggles with linear thought — everything must be black or white, shades of gray need not apply — and the complexities of back-and-forth social interaction. Sometimes things […]
Read more "Out of the Mouths of Babes"There have been times when I have questioned the wisdom of encouraging Ryan to take an interest in sports. Not many, mind you, as his involvement in hockey has helped create a bond that might not otherwise exist. More than anything, it has allowed us to spend time together. Time in delightful, three-hour blocks unencumbered […]
Read more "What Is a ‘Butt-Kick’?"Ryan’s extreme interest in — some might say obsession with — the sport of hockey has brought many moments of joy to our household. But … there is a downside. At the social skills group Ryan attends, they teach the “Superflex and the Unthinkables” curriculum, a part of Michelle Garcia Winner’s Social Thinking program. For […]
Read more "The Downside of a Hockey Obsession"If you’ve been reading this blog, you know by now that Ryan pays a lot of attention to the NHL. After flirting with being a fan of my favorite team, Washington, he has settled on the San Jose Sharks as his no. 1. The reasons why are not entirely clear. I tried to dissuade him […]
Read more "Of Rivals and Rivalries"As part of its annual “Hockey Weekend Across America” celebration, USA Hockey and the NHL are asking people to use social media to say what hockey means to them, marking their posts with the hash tag #hockeymeans Since there is no way I could confine my answer to 140 characters, and since I’m sure USA […]
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Pucks and Puzzle Pieces 