Asperger+Syndrome

 //All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome (2006) //is a book written by Kathy Hoopmann that uses photographs of cats to depict the characteristics of Asperger Syndrome. For example, on page five there is a picture of a kitten with a stuffed dog and the words “instead of coming to people for comfort, he may be overly attached to a toy”, and on page seven there is a picture of a cat on the roof with the words “it’s possible he is extra adventurous with no sense of danger” (Hoopmann, 2006). Hoopmann tries to grasp the 'essence' of Asperger Syndrome in this book by highlighting the positives of Asperger's without ignoring the difficulties of the syndrome (Hoopmann, n.d.).

This book is a valuable disability awareness resource that can be used in schools to promote inclusion. It can develop a teacher's own understanding of Asperger Syndrome, but it is also simple enough to be read to primary school age students. It would be a particularly useful resource for classes that have students with Asperger Syndrome. Reading of the book should be accompanied by discussion. When discussing the characteristics of Asperger Syndrome that are presented in this book, the teacher must be mindful that they are only generalisations of characteristics, and this must be explained to the class. Reading and discussing the book would hopefully provide students, including those with Asperger Syndrome, with an insight into the condition. Furthermore, it is hoped that through the use of this resource, students will understand the dignity, individuality and potential of people with Asperger Syndrome (Hoopmann, 2006).

Teaching notes for //All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome // have been written by autism spectrum specialist Sue Larkey. They can be found at: @http://www.suelarkey.com/media/Activities_-_All_Cats_Have_Asperger_Syndrome.pdf Larkey (n.d.) suggests asking the class questions such as: > Larkey (n.d.) also provides suggestions on assisting children with Asperger Syndrome, such as:
 * Have you ever been in a situation or place, and felt you didn’t fit in or belong?
 * Do you like being with people or do you feel more comfortable in your favourite place, with your favourite belongings?
 * What makes you feel safe?
 * The child with Asperger Syndrome may want to be near those he/she loves, but not be held. Places and things may comfort him/her.
 * The child with Asperger Syndrome may be adventurous but unaware of dangers. Teach the child that actions have consequences.
 * The child may have very good hearing. Due to this sensitivity, turn down and avoid loud noises, and sudden movements.

<span style="color: #000000; font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif';">As a result of reading and discussing //All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome//, and using Sue Larkey’s accompanying teaching notes, it is expected that teachers, students with Asperger Syndrome, and students without Asperger Syndrome will all develop a better understanding of the condition. In the words of author Kathy Hoopmann (n.d.), "readers will come away with their eyes opened and a smile on their faces".

References Hoopmann, K. (2006). //All cats have asperger syndrome.// Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA: Jessica Kingsley Publishers. Hoopmann, K. (n.d.). //All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome//. Retrieved July 04, 2011, from Kathy Hoopmann: http://www.kathyhoopmann.com/books-allcats.html Larkey, S. (n.d.). //Activities: All cats have Asperger Syndrome.// Retrieved July 03, 2011, from Sue Larkey: http://www.suelarkey.com/media/Activities_-_All_Cats_Have_Asperger_Syndrome.pdf

__DVD Intricate Minds II__
(American)

This DVD is suitable for primary school children, 8 - 12 years. It is not a resource specific for a child with Asperger Syndrome, it is a resource to utilise with children who may have a child diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome in their class. It's contents consists of primary school children who have been diagnosed as having Asperger Syndrome talking about what it is like. Describing how they think and feel. It is a great tool to develop empathy in others and give a small insight into what it is to have this diagnosis. A goal is to "help class mates avoid the trap of ignoring or teasing kids who have trouble fitting in. Kids who understand the reasons for "different students" actions are much more likely to accept them socially and include them in activities." (DVD cover) I do not think the DVD should be shown alone, it is a tool to iniate discussion and talk about what has been seen and how children can work together. It is quite strength based as positive qualities of the children are discussed.

www.coultervideo.com