isolation/parent/asd

[Anonymous]

I am always looking for that one parent and child who are just like me and my little guy. It seems that asd/aspergers manifests itself very differently in each child. For example my kiddo is not repetitive in his actions but he is so impulsive and easily over stimulated. He does pretty well with social interactions, but he can't keep his hands off of other kids possessions. This is stressful for me and does not make him very popular. I just want to find one 5 yearbold like my five year old who is mischievous..loves to run around and play hide and go seek ...who needs to go to enclosed playgrounds and who is loving and friendly. And...I would love to talk to that parent because I am alone in this struggle..with my worries...with our challenges. It is worse now that he is in kindergarten because I feel like he may be the only kid with special needs in the grade. I am venting...I just dyingto be with someone who understands.

[Anonymous]

I completely understand where you are coming from OP. I too wish I had someone who can understand how hard things are normally. None of my friends have kids with special needs. My little guy also just started kindergarten (though has different issues), so I know how you feel! My guy "appears" NT when he is running around and has been able to make some friends so other parents don't see how much work goes into his having a normal day and just having him walk into school without a meltdown each day. You are not alone! Hugs!

[Anonymous]

My boy is a little younger than yours, but they sound like they'd have a blast together - he's also friendly, kooky, and very active. I totally get where you're coming from!

[Anonymous]

I've got a 4 yr old DD with ASD who, like your DC, has no repetitive behaviors, but can be very impulsive. My DC is very sweet, gentle and affectionate. Her main issue is lack of receptive and expressive language. She is totally non-verbal and doesn't follow 1 step direction. She also doesn't understand danger, so I have to have a hand on her at all times and that can be exhausting. She enjoys being around other kids, though she hasn't figured out how to interact with them. I would love to find a local group for structured play dates. Where do you live?

[Anonymous]

We live in Alexandria. Thx everyone for your responses. I feel better today. Somedays are Harder than others

[Anonymous]

I was just telling dh the other day that finding a friend for me and ds is like merging step families... the kids have to get along (with their issues) and the moms have to get along too! LOL

I totally understand. Glad you are feeling better OP

[Anonymous]

Hang in there, OP! He sounds like a great kid and a lot of fun.

[Anonymous]

Hugs OP! I know the feeling all too well....

It comes every summer. DS 10 and I have just completed another summer of isolation at the crowded pool. Informal fun activities going on all around us, but with the swim team kids, neighborhood kids on the same sports teams or those who ride the bus together and have age appropriate typical socializing, etc. And yes, we've reached out and reached out, but when you have "that kid," eventually the welcomes wear thin and are reduced to "hi, how are you guys-----smile, c-ya"

A really good adult friend and a matching on-going friend for DS are far and few between. Hold on to those ones you are lucky to find!

[Anonymous]

Why stay each in your separate, isolated pods with so many wonderful opportunities up in the DC area for the kids and the parent(s) to get together on neutral territory with no commitment. In fact, you could go for an outdoor site, but have a back-up indoor site.

I know there are so many wonderful parks up in the area that one might meet at - a new very inclusive playground out in Northern Virginia w a Mery-Go-Rounnd and ccvered picnic areas which I believe can be reserved. I have my daughters mention Cabin John and Glen Ellen.

For indoor fun - you can't beat the Building Museum which is right opposite the Metro stop literally and has an
enormous carpeted main floor and a casual coffee shop to get something and watch the kids run around. There are also two "building rooms" for different ages one can sign up to go into with kids for a certain time. We went with four yr old twins in the spring.

Again, I would just suggest taking the plunge and set a date and time for a "show-up" play time. If possible maybe pack a lunch. Maybe all could agree to wear a certain color to self-identify. You never know where it could lead to.

[Anonymous]

Alexandria is a pretty awful place for families with special needs. We do most of our activities and socializing in Arlington and Fairfax and it is much better for everyone. There is a special needs support group for parents in Alexandria City, but it's not for everyone.

[Anonymous]

08:27, I am not the OP, but your statement makes a lot of sense to me! Are there any activities in Arlington and Fairfax that your family has especially enjoyed? I'd love to get some new ideas. Thanks!