Newbie needs advice

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One of my children has been officially diagnosed with Asperger's. At least one other of my children probably will receive the same diagnosis. There seem to be other family members who would fit in, too. I am learning as much as I can, as fast as I can.

Any recommendations/suggestions/do's and don'ts to prepare me to tell my fifth grader about his diagnosis?

Ask them first if they want to know about it. I am not sure how old 5th grade is but also if they want to know make sure they understand what you say. All the best!

Mum2ASDboy,

5th grade is usually about 10yo.

I would say JUST TELL HIM! I wish *I* knew then!

Does he like to read things? Or watch TV? My mom knew I'd read anything I would find, and so she put something on Aspergers on the table where she knew I'd find it, and sat at the table while I read it. Of course, that's just my experience.

To prepare though, remember that AS is an ability more than a disability, and don't give him the "special" line. Don't act like this makes him any less able, or any less anything, though I doubt you would.

A good "do" might be to make any information on AS you have available to him. He might get hungry for information on AS, and it's good to feed a thirst for knowledge.

It's good that you're telling him, I think. I'm glad my mom did, that's for sure.

Many thanks everyone.

I am checking out a lot of sites on the internet, link after link.
Spent a few lengthy sessions dropping bucks at Amazon.

My son loves cats, All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome was one of the first on my list.

Asperger's...an ability...I can see it. Will absolutely include that idea.