Be A Meadow Brook Hero!
Safe. Respectful. Responsible.
Meadow Brook Elementary School is fortunate to serve lots of friends who are impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Here are some ways we can strengthen our bonds with friends who have ASD:
- Remember that friends with ASD value the friendships we share. Just like our friends who don’t have autism, friends with ASD are each unique. Some friends with ASD are more social and some are less social. We should make sure all our friends know we care about them.
- Remember to be patient when talking with and listening to friends with ASD. Our friends with ASD tend to communicate in unique ways. If it takes a bit more time to share thinking with some friends than it does with others that’s ok. You’ll find that taking the time to listen carefully and respond with kindness helps friendships grow.
- Speak clearly and show friends with ASD what you mean. Sometimes our friends with ASD need a little more time to understand what we’re talking about. It’s important that we speak slowly and clearly when we’re talking with friends who have ASD. We can also use hand gestures and even pictures to help communicate. Our friends with ASD often like to see the things they’re hearing about.
- Include friends with ASD in your plans. Our friends with ASD like to play and have fun just like anyone else. Your parents can help you communicate with families so that you’re including friends with ASD in your plans in and outside of school. Playing together and sharing time can help build strong and lasting friendships.
- Think about and be respectful of differences. Our friends with ASD often experience something called “sensory challenges,” which means they might not like loud noises, bright lights, and/or the way some fabrics feel to the touch. As we get to know our friends with ASD we should keep this in mind, work hard to understand our friends likes and dislikes, and take those likes and dislikes into account when we’re talking and playing with them.
- Be real. The fact is, our friends with ASD are friends just like anyone else. We all have differences that make us unique. Always make sure that you treat friends with ASD like you would anyone else through the typical challenges and celebrations that come along with being friends.
For more information about ASD and friendships you can click the following link: How To Be A Fiend To Someone To Autism
Sharing our stories with open hearts and open minds,
Your MBE Diversity and Inclusion Team