Evil_Squeakheads wrote:
If they're into anime, getting them to register at an anime-themed forum is a nice choice. It will also let them talk with others who are into the same interests, and communicating online is easier than speaking face-to-face with someone. Of course, provided they haven't joined a forum already.
But don't force them into it if they haven't joined one. If you REALLY REALLY insist, tell them it's an option (although, that seems overkill IMO).
Sometimes anime conventions will also have online message boards for attendees. But from my experience, taking an aspie to a the convention itself is a BAD IDEA. There will be thousands of people, the convention hall is often cramped, everyone is approaching you and hugging you and being friendly. While I appreciated it at first, it was also a nightmare and I nearly collapsed from exhaustion after 4 hours. Literally. Went home, curled up into the fetal position and went to sleep until the sun set. I remained exhausted for the entire weekend and never went back to the convention. (Too anxious, my nerves were fried by that point)
It's OK not to be into "age appropriate" interests. Actually, anime is a perfectly normal interest among the nerd/geek/alternative circles, and many of my NT friends also like it. Let me also say that most teens don't appreciate a parent who meddles into every aspect of their lives, NT or Aspie. Especially if that parent tries to force the teen into becoming someone they aren't.
I'd focus more on teaching them life skills a little at a time, and without the pretense that they're "ret*d" or they've done something wrong.
I don't know, with me my interest often took more of a driver seat then my social anxiety. This is different for everybody. I would not force them to go, but if they ask you to go, or if one comes up you can ask if they want to go. If they say no...just let it pass. If not it may help. It really depends on the level of social activity they want. As stated, staying out of thier business is not a bad idea, especially if they are teens who tend not to get in trouble. I only mention what I do because interests are pretty powerful things, and can overtake social fear. I can deal with thousands of people, as long as I am interested in whats going on. If I am not interested in a social gathering and it doesn't focus on something that is in my select interests, I dread going and often get very anxious.
Not sure if your daughters are like that as well. Again, this is an option, but they have to drive it and go with it. The truth is they may not be socially comfortable enough to handle it. But I also know alot of aspies who love these conventions because it is socially safe because they can focus on thier interests.
23 Sep 2009, 1:37 am
