Comments on: Just a Bigger Boy on the Beach

By: Ketchup Summer

Ketchup Summer — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 00:30:58 +0000

[...] and Charlie has watched patiently as I’ve done what I can to shake those last drops out. Down here at the beach, he’s mostly had ketchup in those little packets; he tends to eat them first (before the hot [...]

By: b5media - Theme day at the health and wellness channel… Summer fun!

b5media - Theme day at the health and wellness channel… Summer fun! — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:25:58 +0000

[...] at Autism Vox goes on vacation by the ocean for fun in the sun and surf, and some reflections on summers past and how her son has [...]

By: AndreaS

AndreaS — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:52:21 +0000

I’m working on an assignment that has had me reading a parenting book geared toward working with teens, and I’ve been thinking about some of the things you mentioned. The authors talk about letting your teen experience the consequences of his or her actions, but when the teen doesn’t necessarily understand the ramifications of that behavior…

I’m finding Gus asserting his independence more and more, which is really frightening, especially when he wants to ride his bike but doesn’t stop to check for traffic. I think I’m getting a mild glimpse of what’s to come in a few years.

I may need medication…for myself.

Glad to see you’ve found a way to work with Charlie and his swimming! Enjoy the rest of your beach stay!

By: Kristina Chew, PhD

Kristina Chew, PhD — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 21:33:34 +0000

Angel Brooke McKinney was found Tuesday morning at a TRAX station, ABC4.com reports.

By: Kristina Chew, PhD

Kristina Chew, PhD — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 16:55:10 +0000

This morning I think I found the right tactic—-made sure Charlie started swimming at the flag to the south, so he was naturally drawn across to the other flag. I just have to make sure I get to the beach with him so I can get him over there.

Had a peaceful time this morning swim, too—-the certainly hoped for consequence.

By: Linda

Linda — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 15:10:22 +0000

Ok, this has to be said: consequences are vital. While not pleasant to implement they are necessary to change behavior. Not swimming according to the ropes may result in no swimming for next half hour for example. Adolescents crave consequences. To them it represents safety and knowing someone is in control when they feel not in control (at best). This goes for everyone.
Speeding tickets result in driving slower (for me anyway).
I love adolescents, they are in such obvious pain.

By: Kristina Chew, PhD

Kristina Chew, PhD — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 14:31:41 +0000

The book is A Real Boy How Autism Shattered Our Lives – and Made a Family from the Pieces by Christopher Stevens. I don’t think he uses the Peter Pan line exactly; need to check. Stevens has an unwavering sense of humor about dealing with some tough moments.

By: halfrabbit

halfrabbit — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 08:57:52 +0000

Can I enquire what book contained the peter pan quote, it sounds interesting.

It’s so true that adolescence can be awful. Especially hard when you have certain differences. To want to be an adult like others, but to be still have certain “childish” quirks (probably shouldn’t say anything about that but my Mum called me childish 10 minutes ago and the truth hurts thus influencing my comment ….)