I often remind Jasmine (now 8 yrs old) how lucky she is to have Destiny. And how much Destiny loves her and so forth. Well, Jasmine spoke of her love for Destiny at the Bronx Zoo yesterday.

It was a beautiful summer day and the zoo was pretty busy. We spent most of the day walking in and out of the exhibits and then had nice picnic lunch. Our last destination was going to be “Asia” which is seen by way of a monorail ride. The kids love the “sky train”. We took a shuttle train to the Asia monorail instead of walking, which we waited 20 minutes for. When we reached the monorail attraction, it was going to be a 2 hour wait. Destiny was just starting to get antsy. And I knew Destiny could not wait the 2 hours but we had to go on the monorail. I discreetly explained to the ride operator that Destiny has autism and that waiting for 2 hours could cause major behavior problems. The operator allowed us to go on the next ride. As we sat down, Jasmine says  “I am so glad Destiny has autism”.  
Kimberly Wragge  http://www.kimwragge.com

What is your favorite way to celebrate back to school with your children? I have spoken to many parents and here are some of the ways they embrace this wonderful occasion.
*A daily countdown leading up to the first day of school *Creating a scrapbook of all the family’s summer activities to share with classmates*Taking the children to their favorite restaurant the night before and enjoying a special “good luck” cake

*Making their ultimate favorite breakfast on the morning of the first day

*Writing a special love note and putting in their lunch box or backpack

Having a special back to school tradition can ease some of the anxiety.. It can also help your child feel more secure by providing a positive, supportive environment for them.

Kimberly Wragge

http://www.kimwragge.com

I recently found out about this cool website from a great woman who wants to make a difference in her classroom. As we can guess, school supplies budgets are going to get cut in this national economical crisis. This website connects donors of school supplies funds with classroom staff who create a “wish list” for their classroom. The donations can range from large corporate companies to small businesses to individuals. The monetary donations are “virtual funds” and to be used to purchase items online. You can select your preferred classroom and check on how the supplies are making a difference in students’ lives. I think it’s a great idea.

Kimberly Wragge  http://www.kimwragge.com

Last week, we had the pleasure of attending a very special event, “Butterflies For Autism”. It was held in Parksville, NY and hosted by Barbara Bell. Barbara has a butterfly house on her property. It was a gorgeous day. The weather was in the seventies and not a cloud in the sky. The event was open to the public. Families and professionals had opportunities to chat with others. There was a petting zoo which included lambs, goats, young cattle, etc. Children of all ages were petting and feeding the animals. The Judith Tulloch band preformed heart warming music. My mother and I were there to network with others and we had Autism Awareness merchandise available for purchasing. My friends from SCAAN (Sullivan County Autism Awareness Network) were also there to offer support and give information about their fabulous organization. And the end of the day, there was a beautiful butterfly release. Barbara had written a beautiful song about autism and dedicated to her son who has autism. The song was sung as we released our butterflies in the air. It was so heart warming. It brought tears to my eyes. Barbara would like to make this into an annual event. She has my fullest support. It was an absolute perfect day!!!Kimberly Wragge  http://www.kimwragge.com

Well, summer is more than half over and the kids are now saying “I’m bored”. Without breaking the bank, I am trying to think of fun and entertaining things for them to do. Here is what is planned for next week. Monday- going to park and running around the high school track. Tuesday- having a picnic and finding sea shells at the beach. Wednesday-cleaning out all toy boxes (old toys always bring them new joy). Thursday- spending the day at the library. Friday- treating them to fast food and bowling. With this schedule, hopefully it will reduce the famous mid summer boredom blues.

Kimberly Wragge http://www.kimwragge.com

It was suggested that Anthony attend the summer enrichment program for continuity and social growth. On the first day of class, Mr. Golf told Anthony that his new nickname was “Shut Up” and every time he said “Shut Up”, Anthony was supposed to answer him. He proceeded to do this throughout the day. Later on that day, a classmate called Anthony “Shut Up” and said “Go away freak” during recess. Anthony was extremely upset and did not want to go back. He felt embarrassed and once again felt that lonely feeling of being different. I called the principal, Mr. Schadt, the next day and explained that situation. He told me that Mr. Golf was aware of Anthony’s diagnose and had access to his IEP, where it describes Anthony’s social difficulties. He assured me that he would speak to Mr. Golf. Anthony said that at the end of the day. Mr.Golf said “You know I was only kidding Right?”. But the damage was already done. Anthony is already a target for bullies and teasing from other students. Why would a teacher, who is supposed to be the adult, engage in such an inappropriate manner? I am very disgusted by this incident. This teacher had no right to be so offensive and insulting to any student, especially to a student that has a disability. This incident proves that even teachers in our own district help make up the ignorant and discriminatory society that we live in.

Kimberly Wragge  http://www.kimwragge.com