It can be extremely difficult for children with autism to adapt to a new place, whether it be a kindergarten, school or just a new company. It is good when there are relatives who are ready to take care of their comfort. So, a fifth grader from Texas recorded a video message to her brother’s future classmates: she told in detail how to behave with people with autism.
A resident of Texas (USA) Tanya Van Bree posted a video on her Facebook page, which was recorded by her daughter Eli. The girl made a video for Willem’s future classmates, her brother with autism – the boy is going to first grade this year.
Tanya Van Bree wrote that Eli wanted as many people as possible to learn how to behave around people with an autism spectrum disorder. In addition, the girl wanted to be sure that for several years of study, Willem would be surrounded by friendly and understanding guys.
Eli herself is studying in the fifth grade of the same school – in a year she will move to another educational institution, but for now the girl is ready to help her brother get comfortable in a new place.
“Willem does not speak well, it is easier for him to explain himself in writing, for example, with the help of special tablets. Nevertheless, he is quite emotional and loves nature very much, ”says Eli on video frames.
According to her, new acquaintances, loud sounds and bright colors can frighten Willem, because his hearing and vision are too sensitive to external stimuli. In connection with these and other features of her brother, Eli identified four rules for communicating with him:
- Greet Willem with a smile;
- Don’t be offended if he doesn’t want to play with you;
- Be patient and tolerant;
- Be kind and keep talking to him even if he doesn’t answer. Don’t pretend it doesn’t exist.
“One way or another, he is a child like you and me. So I hope you love it as much as I do,” Eli concluded.
This video found such a powerful response in the hearts of the audience that the school even decided to broadcast it among other educational announcements.
And although Eli is only in the fifth grade, judging by the blog of her mother, Tanya Van Bree, the girl is already very strong in spirit and strives to help those in need. So, this year she sold about two thousand boxes of cookies, the proceeds from which will go to charity.
“She sold cookies every weekend – even in the snow, wind and rain. She went from door to door, was never shy and did not allow the thought of giving up everything, ”writes Tanya Van Bree.