So what works for your high functioning Aspie?

[Guest guest]

I've got an IEP meeting in a few weeks, and I'm figuring out what services I

need to fight for. Currently we are homeschooling due to the county's failure

to provide support, but my school system had a big shake up in the special

education department over the summer (maybe I played a role in that:) ), and I

might be able to get what he needs this time around.

My 9 yr old son is in the high functioning Aspergers neighborhood. He has been

advanced in academics (reading by 3 and was doing math a grade or two above his

level), but is very delayed socially and has other behavioral issues. Also, his

writing and handwriting skills are lacking (as is typical). I'm wondering what

school environment is working for others, so that when I'm advocating for my

son, I have a clearer idea of what services he needs to get.

He needs ABA (or behavior modification support) and OT (sensory issues and motor

skills), and I'd like a classroom environment in which he is learning

academically. In the past he has had a lot of speech therapy, but his speech

seems to be pretty good. He has some issues with pragmatics, but I don't think

speech therapy is needed at this point.

I'm wondering if anyone has some suggestions for what type of academic

environment might work for him? I'm thinking that ideally he is mainstreamed in

an academically challenging classroom with ABA support, and weekly OT. Perhaps

also, some social skills groups would/could be provided. He doesn't need a 1:1,

but in a perfect world, there is support staff who can step in if he has a

behavior problem. Also, staff needs to be familiar with kids on the spectrum.

Thanks.

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