I always worried if Ezie would make friends. Ezie does not prefer solitude despite his inability to expressively communicate at times or engage in what most know as "play". We tried sports and although parents started out supportive, I could feel the tension that they got "stuck with that kid" on the team. After quietly bowing out of tball & soccer we signed him up for Cub Scouts with hope he would find a sense of friendship and belonging.
Ezie has made friends in his 'Den' who look out for him and he takes on social situations that are not predictable like camping! He even climbed a rock wall at camp! Although every activity has certain challenges we find a way for him to be successful by using visual schedules, flash cards and his leaders allow him to express himself through writing rather than through speech to earn his recognitions.
Not once have we felt the "stuck with that kid" tension, I have met some great kids and amazing parents. Through the patience, understanding and leadership of our leaders Dave & Mike and supportive parents I know Ezie will continue to thrive in this program and I recommend it to all on the spectrum and not!
As for finding a sense of friendship and belonging, we found it.
Torrance, CA
