MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'defensiveness'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 02:56:32 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4592457&cid=t_246493_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F03%2F15%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-march-15-2011%2F There are just two things on my mind right now: Japan and the time change. One is weighing heavy on my heart and the other has turned me into a zombie. Both have affected the way I view my life. How can two things so different in severity–a natural disaster and a loss of an hour–have anything to do with each another? For me, it crowns time as King and places everything else as a lesser priority. What we choose to spend time in our lives suddenly becomes clearer. Like the grains of sand falling in an hourglass, time slips away putting a spotlight on the impact hardship and an hour loss have on what’s really important. It forces me to ask what moments should I be spending more time on and which ones should I lay to rest? As we begin a new week, our bloggers have a pulse on ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4592457 Tue, 15 Mar 2011 10:25:35 +0100 4592457 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4302162&cid=t_246493_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F12%2F31%2Fintroducing-neuroscience-and-relationships%2F Well, as we say goodbye to another year, I have an early new year’s present for everyone — a new blog! I’m pleased to introduce Neuroscience and Relationships with Dr. Athena Staik. Dr. Athena Staik has been studying the brain, the neuroscience of attachments, and cutting edge tools for accelerated success and human change for over 10 years. With a Ph.D. in marriage and family therapy, and an MA and BA in psychology, her work is influenced by a wide range of psychological models, with an emphasis on positive, strengths-based approaches. “On this blog, I’d like to share some of the methods I use, principles, recent findings as it relates to the brain and healthy personal lives and relationships, how understanding how our brain and body are designed is an essential part... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4302162 Fri, 31 Dec 2010 14:29:57 +0100 4302162 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3403927&cid=t_246493_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F24%2Fwomen-and-mens-defensiveness-impacts-health%2F You probably already know that men and women deal and react to stress differently. What you may not have realized is just how different we are when it comes to dealing with stress. And one of the keys appears to be how defensive we are: Defensiveness is a trait characterized by avoidance, denial or repression of information perceived as threatening. In women, a strong defensive reaction to judgment from others or a threat to self-esteem will result in high blood pressure and heart rate. But in older men, the researchers found those with low defensive reactions have higher cardiovascular rates. This is not a finding that has previously been noted in the research. Conventional wisdom would have expected that one’s defensiveness would have a similar impact on health, regardless of gend... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3403927 Wed, 24 Mar 2010 19:19:53 +0100 3403927 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2974142&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fproceed-with-caution.html One of my many duties as Head Cook and Chief bottle washer of this joint is to tackle the accumulation of miscellaneous stains that have recently appeared around the premises. Although we are in the midst of a heavily armed, hand-washing campaign, nevertheless I find I have been remiss in my vigilance. Whilst I can think of many other things that I should prefer to do, there comes a time when the graffiti can no longer be ignored. Armed with my trusty scrubber, soap and several gallons of elbow grease, I make a start. The first one is an ominous brown smear but it passes the sniff test, so I know that is benign, Belgium Chocolate pudding I’ll be bound. As I scrub I hear the sweetly melodic strains of my youngest son’s latest ditty, “threedy boogie college,” to a familiar tune, with... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2974142 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 07:05:00 +0100 2974142 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2793369&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F09%2Ftongue-twister.html Hosted by "Tracy" at "Mother May I," but the photo-picture below will whizz you right there with one click.Just call me snap happy.What is it?I'm so glad you asked:-A fossilized, flat, four footed, platypus skeleton. Don't try saying that in a hurry. It would appear that the tactile defensive amongst us have mastered tape.If you like what you read, send it to someone in 'need.' (Source: Whitterer on Autism) Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2793369 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 06:31:00 +0100 2793369 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2405867&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F05%2Fcooking-lessons-with-chicken-little.html Clearly it’s an exaggeration, but it’s the nearest I can get to convey the abject panic in the kitchen. Kitchen’s are fraught with dangers for the unwary and the ever so slightly paranoid. The motivation is clear and present, the desire to create something yummy but the overwhelming amount of angst that swirls around the kitchen soon have us both heading up the vortex. This is primarily due to my own ability to say the wrong thing at the wrong time and feed the OCD beast within. Throughout this exercise there is the underlying ghost of tactile defensiveness, the abhorrence of dirty hands. I think there may well be a smidge of this phenomenon in many of us. It’s the reaction we feel when the unexpected happens. We stroll along on our own sweet way, when out of nowhere we find someth... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2405867 Thu, 14 May 2009 06:20:00 +0100 2405867 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2405869&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F05%2Fhow-to-make-chefs-hat.html Now surely this is something that everyone needs in their life, regardless of whether you're a gourmand or a cheez whiz kind of a cook. It's really a question of look the part and step into the role.All you need is some stiff card, seleotape, scissors, measuring tape and five minutes.Measure the diameter of the head that you wish to adorn and mark that length plus an inch onto the card. Try and find a large piece of old card to re-use rather than recycle.Cut through the card to a two inch border that will form the head band.Clip and then tape the headband to overlap one inch.Reach through the inside and tape the lengths together to form a dome.Done.Go on, indulge your child's latest whim. Now that's what I call "positive reinforcement." When I think of how I had the nerve to ask the staff ... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2405869 Tue, 12 May 2009 06:58:00 +0100 2405869 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2150851&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F02%2Fmagic-marker-monday.html Hosted by "Tracy" at "Mother May I," but the photo-picture below will whizz you right there with one click.Just call me snap happy.Yes that's sandpaper!an 8 year milestoneIf you like what you read, send it to someone in 'need.' (Source: Whitterer on Autism) Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2150851 Mon, 02 Feb 2009 07:58:00 +0100 2150851 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2132542&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F01%2Fpuppy-training-brief-summary.html Hosted by "Tracy" at "Mother May I," but the photo-picture below will whizz you right there with one click.Just call me snap happy.I attend the primer. A two hour lecture.I did try very hard not to yawn.• Consistency • Persistence• Always follow through• Think like a dog • Use logic• Dogs have common dogginess principles• Each dog has it’s own unique personality and character• Keep language concise• Use body language• Use simple signs• Generalize skills in different locations• Reward with treats initially• Don’t forget to fade rewards• Pick your battles• Schedules, routines and predictability• Never punish natural doggy behaviour such as chewing, digging and barking• Provide safe opportunities to chew, dig and bark• Tone of voice• Facial expression... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2132542 Mon, 26 Jan 2009 07:36:00 +0100 2132542 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2027207&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F12%2Fthursday-13-174-edition.html Thirteen Things about Holiday gift disguiseTake a look at the picture of the gift and guess what's inside?1. 2. Homemade kiddie picture frame. Did you guess right?3. What about this one?4. It's a mini book.5. 6. A golf ball.7. 8. M & M's stuck on an old CD.9.10.11. 12. CD13. So what's the point? In these frugal times the gifts may be small or homemade but it can all be made a little more fun and festive without breaking the bank. Also thwarts those who shake and squeeze every package, as there's nothing like a little confusion to bring about a real surprise.Of course it's also one of the best way to open a gift without having to tackle the wrapping paper, an easy access and unflappable solution.Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who parti... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2027207 Thu, 11 Dec 2008 07:39:00 +0100 2027207 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2027208&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F12%2Fwordless-special-exposure-wednesday.html Yes we 'practice' hats for a few weeks and it's almost generalized.If you enjoy caption competitions and photographs, you may wish to nip along to"DJ Kirkby" over at "Chez Aspie" and test your brain power.If you like what you read, send it to someone in 'need.' (Source: Whitterer on Autism) Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2027208 Wed, 10 Dec 2008 07:50:00 +0100 2027208 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2021590&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F12%2Frecipes-from-fringe-of-bell-curve.html To celebrate my new found ability to sign up for this blinking linking thing, I had another brilliant idea, you know, one of those ideas that strikes in the wee small hours of the night. As often as not, the next day dawns and the idea dies like a damp squid, not to say squib.So here’s the plan. Consider sharing a recipe that your family, a family member or you, enjoy that doesn’t seem to be appreciated by many other bodies on the planet. Guidelines:-Ideally this should be something that you really prepare and eat. If you prepare and eat chocolate covered scorpions, all well and good, but attempt truthfulness.Have you given it a name? If so, what is it and why?Please offer enough detail to allow others to follow it easily. I favour piccies, but not everyone as is reliant on visual cues... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2021590 Mon, 08 Dec 2008 07:59:00 +0100 2021590 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2005925&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F12%2Fhow-long-wordless-special-exposure.html How long? Wordless WednesdayHow long does it take the average 8 year old to open four birthday presents do you suppose? I suspect that a thoughtful careful interested child may take some while to open and examine each one. I more impulsive child may rip them all open in seconds. I’m sure there are infinite variations on a theme to suit each little individual. Around here, we set a new record, all over and done with within a half hour. The gifts were less than perfect but that turned out to be o.k. His presents were wrapped in paper which proved a challenge for the tactile defensive digits which are always super sensitive first thing in the morning. With lots of help, kitchen scissors in someone else’s hands, he managed to achieve unwrapped. Not so long back, his brother and sister had ... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2005925 Wed, 03 Dec 2008 07:30:00 +0100 2005925 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1984971&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F11%2Ftry-tackling-it-tuesday-kitchen-angel.html First and foremost I would like to point out that my idea of a kitchen angel is someone who visits the house, creates a delicious meal, does all the washing up and then disappears. If they would happen to include baby sitting services so that I am at least in with a fighting chance of eating a morsel, then that’s all to the good. This cheerful craft by comparison, comes in at a very poor second.Let me just say at the outset, that when I was first given one of these creations as a gift, I was severely miffed, or rather, less than thrilled. Whilst I try not to look a gift horse in the mouth, at the same time, kitchen equipment never rates highly on my list of desirable. Strangely, these items are quite common in America, however I doubt whether they exist in Europe, except perhaps in the ... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1984971 Tue, 25 Nov 2008 07:59:00 +0100 1984971 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1984972&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F11%2Fmagic-marker-best-shot-monday.html Hosted by "Tracy" at "Mother May I," but the photo-picture below will whizz you right there with one click.Just call me snap happy.Around this time of year, we make one of those ‘thanksgiving trees.’ For those unfamiliar with this American tradition, the children are given a tree with half a dozen leaves. They write on the leaves explaining what things, if any, they are thankful for. This simple, yet frightfully jolly good idea, appealed to my psyche. The reality however, was far from successful. One of my children had an aversion to the texture of paper. Both of them believed that all writing implements were tools of torture. I overcame the former objection by using foamies. The later was overcome but submitting myself to the role of scribe. All I needed then was to extricate suggesti... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1984972 Mon, 24 Nov 2008 07:59:00 +0100 1984972 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1926562&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F11%2Fdaily-daub-tactile-defensiveness.html If you like what you read, send it to someone in 'need.' (Source: Whitterer on Autism) Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1926562 Sun, 02 Nov 2008 06:59:00 +0100 1926562 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1841097&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F09%2Fwordless-special-exposure-wednesday_30.html Is tactile defensiveness a thing of the past! I'll check my 'generalization of skills' log book before I say anything rash.For anyone keen on words, I have a new note from "Nonna" called "Telescopic or Micro?"If you like what you read, send it to someone in 'need.' (Source: Whitterer on Autism) Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1841097 Wed, 01 Oct 2008 06:59:00 +0100 1841097 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1825843&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F09%2Fwordless-special-exposure-wednesday_23.html If this continues, I shall sell his bed!It is white wood.A cheap trade in return for a very obvious free fall drop in tactile defensiveness.I also have a few words to share on my "Alien" site called "A Glut of Starving Brains."If you like what you read, send it to someone in 'need.' (Source: Whitterer on Autism) Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1825843 Wed, 24 Sep 2008 06:59:00 +0100 1825843 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1742811&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F08%2Fsaturday-photo-hunters-beautiful.html This is where beauty really is in the eye of the beholder. That beholder is me. What I behold is a child who has spent the majority of his life with his "head and shoulders" completely off limits....................but apparently "no longer!"PhotoHuntIf you like what you read, send it to someone in 'need.' (Source: Whitterer on Autism) Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1742811 Fri, 29 Aug 2008 20:21:00 +0100 1742811 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1655533&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F07%2Fcart-me-off-to-funny-farm.html I take my BRAT’s [*] to celebrate Nonna’s unBirthday at Chilli’s, a delightfully noisy and sticky establishment. Both boys lack any muscle function and lie splayed on the empty benches. I park one on my lap and clamp the other to my side. As they are now quite large children, I have the distinct impression that I resemble a Ventriloquist, but that’s paranoia for you. A group of young persons giggle and whisper behind their hands, wrapped in the public eye of exposure and embarrassment in equal proportions. “Dey are be rude?” he enquires. “Make a U-turn if possible!” bellows his brother, fortunately muffled by the bundle of fleece jackets tucked under my other arm.“Not really, they’re just at that stage.”“Wot stage?”“Make a U-turn if possible!”“Try and use yo... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1655533 Sat, 26 Jul 2008 04:31:00 +0100 1655533 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1649092&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F07%2Fpriorities.html He appears self dressed in his favourite T-shirt. Horray! I notice that favourite T-shirt is a tad snug. He has been fond of Curious George for many a long year and chortles gloriously at the mischievous tales. Since this was a welcome departure from Dinosaurs, and Thomas, my oldest daughter painted this specially designed creation with her own fair hands. Delightfully, it was a hit. I grab my camera as for some reason I don’t appear to have any record of it’s existence and some time soon it will be relegated to the rag bag, threadbare and washed out. As she walks into the kitchen I prompt, “show Nonna what you’re wearing dear!” He looks at Nonna. He looks at me, with a certain degree of uncertainty.[*] He pulls down the waist band of his trousers.[*] A hint of social awareness m... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1649092 Wed, 23 Jul 2008 23:21:00 +0100 1649092 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1538407&cid=t_246493_109_f&fid=36089&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthesituationist.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F06%2F23%2Fthe-link-between-sideline-rage-and-road-rage%2F UPI has an interesting write-up on new research by Jay Goldstein, a kinesiology doctoral student at the University of Maryland School of Public Health. Goldstein links persons susceptible to road rage with those who get upset while watching their kids play youth soccer. We excerpt the piece below. * * * Ego defensiveness, one of the triggers that ignites road rage, also kicks off parental “sideline rage” at a child’s soccer game, U.S. researchers said. The study, published in the Journal of Applied Social Psychology, said that if a person has a tendency to become upset while driving, he or she is more likely to be the kind of parent who explodes in anger at a child’s sports matches. Jay Goldstein, a kinesiology doctoral student at the University of Maryland School o... The Situationist blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1538407 Mon, 23 Jun 2008 04:01:35 +0100 1538407 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1488327&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F06%2Finterior-design-101-and-emts.html We are fortunate indeed to live in the current era of casual living. Californians of course, do ‘casual’ so much better than any other people. As a general rule, Brits do not do 'casual' well. Whilst we excel at stiff and stuffy, casual is usually more of a character challenge.An example may clarify the great divide. Let’s take the phenomenon of ‘the throw.’ For those less 'with it' than me, I can tell you that a ‘throw’ is a blanket, but more fashionable than a mere blanket. A blanket belongs on a bed, whereas a throw is draped casually over furniture in any room. It’s presence adds an air of casual. Twenty years ago in England, there was no such thing as a throw. If you were exceptionally lucky there might have been an old car rug, tartan with a fringe. It remained folded... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1488327 Mon, 02 Jun 2008 16:16:00 +0100 1488327 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1478048&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F05%2Fprickly-pairs.html After a long career in the Navy, my parents decided to buy a house and remain in one place. It was a three story terraced Victorian house and I loved it before the ink was dry on the contract. At the back of the house, leading to the tiny strip garden, was what my mother called ‘the conservatory.’The conservatory was a four foot square arrangement of glass and wooden shelves, an entrance way or exit, a distance of three paces. The previous owners has neglected to remove some of their plants from this area, predominantly "cacti." They were a dull grey, with lots of prickles but otherwise quite unremarkable, apart from the single startling iridescent "bloom" stuck on the side like an afterthought. I stroked it to make sure that it wasn’t plastic, as the 1970’s were the heyday of fake... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1478048 Thu, 29 May 2008 20:10:00 +0100 1478048 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1475251&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F05%2Fahem-run-that-past-me-again.html It may sound unkind but I would have to say that my mother was a health hazard. That aside, she had many worthy talents including considerable skills as a dressmaker. Inevitably, we, her children, would fall victim to the strange ritual of trying on the half made garment full of pins and tacks and bits of greaseproof paper. I would stand on the carpet with my mother crouched at my feet as I followed her instructions to turn slowly in circles, to see if the hem was level. Her actual words were incomprehensible, muffled by a mouthful of pins, pointy side inwards. This is how I learned my ‘rotation whilst static’ skills, assisted by advanced toe creeping, but it was a perilous existence.We would sit of a family evening, glued to the telly, whilst my mother busied herself with some projec... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1475251 Wed, 28 May 2008 16:49:00 +0100 1475251 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1433793&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F05%2Fbad-teeth.html Some bloggers have sitemeters. Some bloggers check their sitemeters to see who is searching what subject, if they are brave. Occasionally I am brave and check. What follows are three pieces upon subjects that three people researched via google.This is the fourth topic:-Now there’s a curious search. I can see why people would visit me to find evidence that "British people have bad teeth." I would be eminently qualified in that department. But why search about bad teeth AND autism? Still, I suppose it makes a welcome change from searching any subject with the addition of "not autism," so I’ll stop moaning. Bad teeth might be an area of concern, if a little vague. Some scientific types are concerned about mercury and the incidence of autism. Some parents and scientists suggest that there ... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1433793 Fri, 09 May 2008 17:01:00 +0100 1433793 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1380565&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F04%2Fbrotherly-love-dream-on.html “I am be like!”“Really! What do you like dear?”“I bin dun like dah cream!”Oh no! Don’t tell me ‘bin dun’ is back to haunt us again, one of this pre-emptory terms equivalent to ‘er.’ I look at my little neophobe and his 15 foods. Verily the child doth lie through his little wonky baby teeth. “Indeed!” Oddly enough he picks up on my tone of skepticism, as does his brother, who dives in to defend, encourage and elucidate.“Yeah Mom we are have ice-cream in school today.”“Ice-cream!” So much for the ‘healthy food in school policy,’ that didn’t last a whisker. “How come you had ice-cream?”“Coz it was Tim’s birthday.”“Ah.”“It wuz a birthday treat.”“Nice explaining dear. Surely he didn’t eat ice-cream?” I ask over his brother's head i... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1380565 Fri, 18 Apr 2008 02:45:00 +0100 1380565 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1375105&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F04%2Fsnuggle-down.html I work on the theory that to knit in a frenzy should occupy hands and instill a quiet mind. Thus far the theory proves less than satisfactory. The boys lie on their tummies on the carpet creating Pokemon figures. My youngest daughter lounges on the sofa next to me with her feet in my lap and frequent warnings, “jus don’t poke me with those needles.” I’m almost sure I hear a whisper from those on the carpet, “don wanna spend dah afternoon in dah emergency room!” but maybe I’m mistaken? My eldest daughter wanders in, “glad to see you with your feet up!” she beams as I adjust my "ice-pack." “What are you knitting? It looks like a…......…bone!”“Looks lika bone, looks lika bone, looks lika bone,” whispers the carpet.“Does it? I hadn’t noticed the shape.”“I�... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1375105 Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:59:00 +0100 1375105 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1344340&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F04%2Ffood-police.html I am a great believer in ‘isms.’ They fit neatly into my own prejudice and bias. You could say, ‘by their isms, shall ye know them.’ For me, the world of food, was my own political platform, running a close second to my eco warrior existence.I'm reminded of this when I watch a programme on BBC America, which mentions the words "aduki bean." I immediately lose the thread of the story and whiz back in time to when I was a real cook that ate real food. I was a follower of the ‘your body is a temple’ institute for the ever so slightly deranged. Those were the days where Miso soup and home made flapjacks were the order of the day. No salt, no sugar, no harmful fats. If it didn’t have the word ‘whole’ in it, then it would never pass over the threshold into the house of pure. My... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1344340 Tue, 01 Apr 2008 22:51:00 +0100 1344340 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1306560&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F03%2Forigami-puzzles.html I grumble on return from the supermarket, silently. My son grumbles noisily. He protests at the outrageous art project at school, the one that inevitably involved paper, which sparked off a meltdown of gargantuan proportions. His daily paper report card provides graphic details of the horror that followed. It seems his dislike of paper and it’s texture has resurfaced with a vengeance. I grumble over a different matter, one of the many problems of living in America, especially if you’re of Scottish descent. It’s the bargains that are the problem. In Europe you might get a penny off something if you saved fifty packet tops and promised to give away your first born child in exchange. But not in America. How can you refuse such offers, even if the fridge is already overflowing? It’s si... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1306560 Mon, 17 Mar 2008 01:16:00 +0100 1306560 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1292300&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F03%2Flook-into-future.html “I be need!”“What do you need dear.” When will he learn to reference back and give me a clue!“I be need goggles.”“Goggles?”“No!”“No?”“No. I be need glasses.”“Glasses?”“No!”“No?”“No. I be need shades!”“Shades?”“No. I be need eye fingies.”“Eye thingies?”“No. I be need……binoculars.”“Binoculars?”“Yes.” I look at my son. Four years ago there were several items, ordinary items, that he was unable to name. The few that I particularly recall were television, microscope, binoculars and telephone. He refused to name anything that could remotely be called food. All of them were off his radar and therefore of no interest.The expert tester encouraged him to point at the pictures he chose, the ones he was unable to name. He was unab... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1292300 Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:27:00 +0100 1292300 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1259974&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F02%2Fwordy-wednesday-hand-strength.html Ms. Wordy Wednesday pops in for a chat.“Hi Maddy! Are you getting set up for a condiments party or something?”“Oh dear me no. These are just examples of the kind of muck that is banned in my house.”“Well excuse me! I’ll come back another time when you’re less grumpy.”“Ooo sorry about that, it didn’t come out quite right.”“Are you telling me that you deprive your children of ketchup and American mustard? That’s gotta be in the Un-American Activities ban!”“Hmm you’re probably right, but they’re not banned any more.”“Oh. So what made you change your mind?”“Hand strength, or rather the lack of it.”“Is something wrong with their hands?”“No, it’s just that they’re a bit……"feeble.”“Feeble? What's the magic ingredient in ketchup that st... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1259974 Tue, 26 Feb 2008 19:18:00 +0100 1259974 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1230384&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F02%2Fst-valentine.html “Ooo I am love!”“Are you? Er,..... I mean what do you love?”“I am be love deez!” he shakes the packet of Marshmallows.“Rubbish! You hate Marshmallows.” I recall our long programme of desensitization to textures, ongoing. Part of it included making stick figures with Q-tips and baby Marshmallows. I was never that keen on them myself anyway, a heathen American invention if ever there was one, but 35 minutes of that particular exercise, more or less finished me off. I was quite deafened by the whole experience and the desensitization programme was designated an unmitigated flop.“I am be love now.”“Really why?” He squeezes the bag to his chest in little vibratory movements.“Coz dey are pink and pink is being my favourite colour.”“Ah yes, I’d forgotten that. So y... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1230384 Wed, 13 Feb 2008 19:53:00 +0100 1230384 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1154041&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F01%2Fwordy-wednesday_15.html “Aha. There you are. Back on track?”“Almost.”“I’ve gotta say it, that is a much better photo than usual, for you anyways.”“Well thank you. I’m rather partial to it myself.”“So I take it that I’m looking at some kind of triumph?”“Absolutely.”“So I’m on my own?”“Give it your best stab.”“No clues?”“Um…..it’s really three triumphs.”“Three! So that’s the one the little guy that ‘doesn’t eat food’ right?”“Spot on.”“Hmm. Child holding potato and potato peeler, wearing a contractor’s hat. He’s over his food issues and planning a future career as a chef.”“Ooo now you’re teasing.”“He’s starting to make his own fries?”“Certainly a step in the right direction.”“My guess or his actions?”“Both.”“He’s ... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1154041 Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:31:00 +0100 1154041 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1150710&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F01%2Fcurse-of-socks.html On the first day of term, on the first day of school I was destined for an afterlife in heaven. This was directly due to my snowy white, knee length socks. Each was secured in place with a thick elastic garter above the calf that cut off all blood circulation. The cuff was neatly turned now with perfect symmetry. It is a well know fact that one’s personal appearance in the neat, tidy and clean department, has a direct correlation with the condition of your soul, or so I was led to believe.The second week at school showed that I was winging my way to a completely different destination. This was due to my inability to keep my immaculate socks free from grass stains and dirt. Their general grubbiness could not be eradicated by my inadequate hand laundering skills in cold water with the aid ... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1150710 Mon, 14 Jan 2008 19:52:00 +0100 1150710 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1109838&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F12%2Fthur-littlest-angel-kindred-spirits.html Maybe your child is a loner, some children are, as are some adults come to think of it. Some children are aware of the fact that they are without friends but they're happier that way, self sufficient and independent. Some children are unaware that they have no friends. A few children become aware that they have no friends and wonder why? Occasionally, a child who has no friends, finds one, a friend that is to say. That individual, in this particular instance, has been in the same class as my son for three years but until just recently they have completely ignored one another, or maybe just not noticed the presence of the other?For four years I haven't pushed him. It's a harmless piece of traditional fluff of no importance. But this year he is older, 7, the age of cognition for some childr... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1109838 Thu, 20 Dec 2007 20:31:00 +0100 1109838 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1088753&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F12%2Ftactile-what-wordy-wednesday.html “Geez Wednesday again already! Has life speeded up?””And a jolly good morning to you too. No smarmy comments now?“Smarmy? When will you ever learn to speak American?’“I’m working on it. I just expect a hard time from you.”“Hard time? That sounds vaguely rude.”“Quash the rude antennae, I just slipped into foreign for a moment.”“O.k. so down to business then. What do we have here? Don’t say I have to guess or I may just have to smack you.”“Perish the thought! So you don’t think it’s self explanatory?”“Your Wordless Wednesday posts are never that!”“Well he’s playing with those winkum dinkum magnet thingummy do dahs.”“Yup see those and your point is?”“Well he’s playing. Or rather he was at the time. He was about four. It was a great brea... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1088753 Wed, 12 Dec 2007 03:08:00 +0100 1088753 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1071047&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F12%2Fms-ww-and-neophobic.html Ms. Wordless Wednesday visits to pass judgment upon my offering. I should just like to point out first, to a few "person[s]" who may be in doubt, that I have a perfect "BBC English accent." If that's too tricky imagine that you are talking to the Queen of England.“Well, that’s not too bad this week, maybe even a little cute?”“You sound doubtful?”“Well it would help if his eyes were open of course, but no, I just have this uneasy feeling that there may be some hidden agenda?”“I never hide my agenda, I broadcast them.”“Sad but true. Am I gonna have to guess?”“You guessed right!”“Dang! O.k. so this little guy is the one that doesn’t eat anything?”“Right. Well sort of right.""You always qualify your 'rights' with 'buts'!""'Buts' or 'butts'?""Stop teasing or I ... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1071047 Wed, 05 Dec 2007 01:34:00 +0100 1071047 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1019135&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F11%2Fcant-swim-chuck-em-in-deep-end.html I chat to my "chum" via e-mail, about our families and how their reactions are so pivotal to our own well being. The issue of the extended family, as opposed to the tiny autism unit has great repercussions. Unless families are geographically and perhaps psychologically close, it can be difficult to translate the message, to explain how autism impacts the day-to-day minutiae of life. What hits home for me, is her reference to the fact that we, as parents, give the impression that "we’re coping." It puts me in mind of a visit home to England, over a year ago now.Because we were in England there was the inevitable dose of rain. My youngest son does not ‘do’ rain. Rain is a curse from on high to torture the tactile and sensory challenged child. For many an autistic child, their emotion... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1019135 Sat, 10 Nov 2007 19:15:00 +0100 1019135 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=918950&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F10%2Flearning-under-pressure.html As they leave the house to get into the car for school, my youngest son makes a U-turn and skids back into the house. He is nak.ed in a nano second and parked on the throne for a last minute pit stop. He is a moment or two, too late. I pick up his sodden clothing and toss it onto the washing machine. I dither. I’m confident that it will take him a goodly while to put his shoes and socks back on without me to prompt him. I know that he would never dare risk permitting his bare little toes to touch the ground outside the house. I dash upstairs for replacements whilst the rest of the team waits on the driveway, engine idling. I return with the clothes to find him struggling with the Velcro on his shoes. I have no option but to give him a swift sponge down rather than a shower. If you cou... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=918950 Tue, 02 Oct 2007 00:20:00 +0100 918950 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=783952&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F08%2Foral-defensiveness-and-budgetary.html Many, many lifetimes ago, I was a purist. My first born child lived on a diet of ambrosia. [translation = organic, fresh produce, lovingly prepared without salt or any other pollutants] Sugar was an unknown substance to her. It is directly because of this mistake that I now suffer the consequences.My youngest son, now aged 6 and a half protects his mouth, because he has oral defensiveness. This symptom is one of many that an autistic child may or may not have. [translation = optional extra with no additional charge] He is also neophobic. [translation = fears food] His bravery in the food department has grown considerably over the last few years following early intervention to help de-sensitize his mouth. Instead of only eating three foods [Goldfish, Cheerios and milk] he now enjoys a relat... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=783952 Mon, 06 Aug 2007 18:24:00 +0100 783952 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=728483&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F07%2Fapply-that.html There’s no nice way of putting it really, so I’ll be blunt, frank and to the point. Pointless is precisely what they are! They have no useful purpose in life. Our lives would be so much better without them really when you think about it for a moment or two. Apart from anything else, they just take up too much space, to say nothing of the ghastly effects that they have on the environment. All things being equal, I would have to say that when all’s said and done, we ought to simply ban them and oh how so much better the world would be, to say nothing of the quality of life. I’m in a strong position on this one as we completely ignored ours for three years, didn’t so much as even say hello to it. Well you wouldn’t though really, would you? I may be a few eggs short of a clutch bu... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=728483 Thu, 12 Jul 2007 04:40:00 +0100 728483 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=676255&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F06%2Fparty-favours-and-other-irritations.html Back in ancient times, party favours had yet to be invented. In those days, a child would attend another child’s birthday party, without a parent in tow as chaperon. The child was at the mercy of the birthday child’s parents. On conclusion of the party, if you were exceptionally lucky, you would be given a piece of mangled birthday cake wrapped up in a paper napkin to take home.At some time between then and now, party favours were invented. These favours are purchased by the parent and given to;A] every child in your child’s classB] every child that attends the partyThe parent can make life difficult for themselves by ensuring that the favours match the sex of the recipient. [translation = or ensure that the favours are unisex] N.B. don’t forget to also buy the very expensive litt... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=676255 Tue, 12 Jun 2007 20:15:00 +0100 676255 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=676256&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F06%2Ffilthy-rich.html I am not ear wigging, I am cooking. My daughter and her pal [translation = American friend] come in from the garage having chosen their snacks. [translation = in America it is commonplace to keep catering packs of excessive amounts of food in the garage] They nibble and play together in the family room. Spouse is out with the boys and the shoe campaign. “Yur sooo lucky to have brothers and sisters to play with!” says the only child.“Yeah.”“You have soooo many toys!”“Yeah, but they’re not really all mine. We have to share em.”“Yur sooo lucky to have brothers and sisters to share with.”“Yeah.”“So you must be real rich, huh!” she says incredulously.“Er, yes, um no, actually I don’t know?” The conversation ends prematurely as the clank of the garage door gi... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=676256 Mon, 11 Jun 2007 20:03:00 +0100 676256 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=676258&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F06%2Fblight-on-my-life.html Of course there are several, but we’ll start with an important one, namely shoes. All shoes should be comfortable, that should be part of the definition of a shoe. If a shoe fails to be comfortable it instantaneously transforms itself into another category entirely, namely a means of torture. Additionally, the ideal shoe should be red, in fact I think it should be compulsory that all shoes are red. I would sacrifice, that is to say ‘trade,’ red for comfortable. [translation = beware of women in comfortable shoes] I expect it would surprise you to learn that my first ever pair of shoes were red? [translation = the newly hatched duckling fixates on the first visible object] I of course, am in a position of power, since I have the purse, which contains the means to acquire the shoes. [... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=676258 Sun, 10 Jun 2007 18:33:00 +0100 676258 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=659027&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F06%2Fnot-autism-just-complex-advanced.html When I was a youthful person, several life times ago, one of my hobbies was sub-aqua diving. Dive suits are made of neophrene. After every dive it is necessary to rinse off your suit with fresh water to ensure that this expensive piece of equipment does not rot prematurely. Ideally it should be left to dry under natural conditions. [translation = say no to tumble driers] If you care for your suit it will give you years of trouble free wear.Like many of the younger generation, my spoiled children enjoy the pampering of a lightweight wetsuit. [translation = no goosebumps for my little wimps] It is a well documented fact, that they only people who have swimming pools are movie stars, millionaires and show offs. [translation = and a few Californians, although these categories are not mutually ... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=659027 Mon, 04 Jun 2007 15:46:00 +0100 659027 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=620275&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F05%2Fif-i-die-before-i-wake.html I stand bleary eyed by the kitchen counter sipping black tepid coffee. [translation = my punishment for being distracted] I contemplate life, the universe and everything, as I watch small people at 5:15 in the morning. Wills, living wills, trusts, trustees and guardians, power of attorney – enough to make your head spin and your brain turn to mush.“If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all!” he repeats as he runs backwards. This phrase is on his ‘now playing’ list. [translation = an endless loop] I hope that this current phase, will be short lived, but you never can tell with these things, the walking backwards that is to say, not the "motor mouth." Oddly enough he rarely bumps into anything. To date we are on our fifth week of’ backwards’ and of course he... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=620275 Mon, 14 May 2007 22:57:00 +0100 620275 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=542923&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F04%2Fperseveration-with-sprinkling-of-ocd-on.html “I don’t think he cares one way or another, as long as they serve chips. [translation = French Fries]“True, but so many restaurants don’t have any cruet.”“I know, but there again, if they have anything, they usually have the salt.”“Unless we go to an Italian, then you have two foot of pepper mill being lobbed around by some minor, but not a salt cellar in sight!”“Odd combination really. There again, if we go Italian, there probably won’t be any chips either.”“It’s so strange.”“Strange. A very strange country.”“Mind you, if he carries on the way he is, we could probably do with avoiding that particular perversion.”“True, I don’t think people understand.”“Well it’s so unhygienic, regardless of the other health risks.”“Still, nobody noticed ... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=542923 Sun, 15 Apr 2007 01:25:00 +0100 542923 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=535540&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F04%2Fautism-awareness-month-what-are-you.html Every so often you have the opportunity to step outside yourself and view yourself as others do. This kind of insight usually occurs when you least expect it. One of the [many] times this has happened to me, was on a fairly ordinary day. When I say ‘ordinary,’ I mean this in the way that ‘ordinary’ had become for us. As I am the proud owner, [translation = temporary tenuous custody, at the best of times] of two autistic boys. At that time, they were still on the smallish side, 39 and 45 lbs respectively, which meant that they were portable. Portable was convenient for me, because their legs only functioned on random occasions. [translation = incipient jelly legs] Added to which, they had a strong preference for being both high up and squished. [translation = the latter referrers to... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=535540 Wed, 11 Apr 2007 03:50:00 +0100 535540 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=529242&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F04%2Fsnappin.html [translation = failure to express oneself adequately and model appropriate behaviour] I attempt a verbal warning, but end up drooling instead, which severely reduces the impact of my message. But that's what happens when you "fail to research" a matter thoroughly enough prior to going under the knife. Lately I have had considerably more empathy with my youngest son and his inadequate lip closure. From his earliest days his drool production was supreme, surpassing any dog that I have ever had contact with. [translation = hypersalivation] Then I thought that plastic backed bibs were the solution. A great number of them were utilized throughout the average day, each one discarded as it reached maximum capacity. We were a household of several dozen such items with laundry bills to match. As us... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=529242 Sat, 07 Apr 2007 17:34:00 +0100 529242 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=514894&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F03%2Fsecretarial-skills.html The first secretaries were men because to be a secretary required a unique skill set best suited to the male of the species – detail orientated, thorough and a stiffly starched collar. It is therefore with some trepidation that I attempt to assist the child that insists upon a writing style that he considers to be an accurate copy of how a robot would write, namely that each letter is formed on a underlying and invisible cube. His industry in the morning is unfathomable to a bleary eyed parent. My only purpose is to pre-empt a meltdown of frustration that would wake the rest of the sleeping household.“How you are spell ‘like’?” Instead of saying the letters verbally, I write them on my trusty wipe board.“How you are spell ‘sumpfing?’” We continue in this mode, until he ha... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=514894 Sun, 01 Apr 2007 05:11:00 +0100 514894 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=502985&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F03%2Fearly-days-6-its-all-relative.html [From way back when]Junior son and I have arrived early at school to pick up his brother from his Special Education Day Class, now that he is in First Grade. We're early because it allows him to adjust to the 'new surroundings,' even though it's been a few weeks now. It helps to be first because then additional people arrive gradually. We need to avoid the deluge of a crowd. Another mother and her child are also waiting outside the same door. We join her on the bench and I smile. It’s reciprocated. I make sure that junior is on the far side of the bench, as far away from her and her son as is physically possible. My son doesn’t look at the other mother, nor her child. He might notice if it was a baby, but toddlers are in the same category as dogs and cats, small creatures that are unpr... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=502985 Mon, 26 Mar 2007 23:03:00 +0100 502985 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=488330&cid=t_246493_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F03%2Fhalf-full-and-slightly-tarnished.html The lizard, who fails to acknowledge his given name of "‘Gecky,’" is poised immobile. My pose should also be supine. I prop myself up on my elbows, nursing a mug of crunchy coffee to contemplate the day ahead. The day ahead has merged into the it’s neighbour, because one of my children has turned nocturnal. I wonder how the child that can sleep on his head, in a cupboard or drop to the ground at any time for a nap, has morphed into a waking creature, a very perky one at that? Bed at 8, ‘up’ at 10 to tell us a secret, followed by hourly visits to impart vital or confidential information, has left us dazed. The ‘warning’ note to his teacher, will put her in a better coping position. If I had had a ‘warning’ note yesterday, I might have been in a better coping position mysel... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=488330 Tue, 20 Mar 2007 17:20:00 +0100 488330