by Marcia Hinds – Megan and Ryan’s Mom
www.autism-and-treatment.com
I used to wonder why my son could go on stage and steal the show and yet couldn’t have a one-on-one conversation. It soon made sense once I realized what he was supposed to say was scripted for him when he was in a play.
Here’s an excerpt from my book “I KNOW YOU’RE IN THERE – winning our war against autism” about how great theater was for my son when he was in middle school:
“The theater kids accepted Ryan and everyone, no exceptions. Many of them viewed being different as interesting and valuable. They wore this trait as a badge of honor. These kids looked out for Ryan and tried to protect him during the long, terrifying school day.
Being part of the theater group gave Ryan a place to belong….
Ryan’s part was small, but he stole the show. I cried as I watched him perform. My kid, who had trouble talking one-on-one, had no fear standing in front of hundreds of people…
Of course, the reality was that on stage, Ryan never had to come up with topics of conversation or navigate the complex social skills needed to communicate effectively with others…
On stage, Ryan was a success. Off stage not so much.”
NOTE FROM MARCIA HINDS – Megan and Ryan’s mom:
Ryan became an aerospace engineer, because he received proper medical treatment combined with behavioral, and educational interventions. To preview my book, “I Know You’re In There – winning our war against autism”go to Amazon or my website www.autism-and-treatment.com
Contact info for Marcia:
Phone: 805 796-8213 Email: hindssite@verizon.net or marcia@autismandtreatment.com
There is more info to help on my website.
