Kids with Asperger’s Syndrome tend to be out of synch with the rest of the world and even with their own bodies. One of the things that fascinates me about autism is that it is more than just a mental problem, many of these kids have physical manifestations of their disorder also. They may have verbal or physical tics, they may “toe-walk”, many of them have quite pronounced sensory issues (the whole world sounds, feels, looks like fingernails being scraped on a chalkboard) many of them are not very well coordinated, they cannot play ball or other complicated activities as well as “typical” children can. They participate in rocking motions or other repetitive motions. Some of them flap their hands when they get excited.

Many have problems with fine motor skills like writing or coloring.

All these things are a directly tied to their disability. This is something you never hear about in the magazine and newspaper articles, television shows or other accounts. These well documented physical characteristics make autism a definite medical issue as opposed to a “mental” issue. I cannot tell you how many conversations I’ve had with insurance company respresentatives where they say they cover “medical” problems, not “mental” problems.

All these issues can be addressed to when extent or another with occupational, physical, or speech therapy. Followed up be the parents working with the child at home.

SuperPizzaBoy, as you may know, has a variant of autism named Asperger’s Syndrome. He has been flogged with all sorts of therapy for his various deficiencies and we have seen a definite improvement in many areas. He has turned into a great swimmer for instance, he loves playing soccer and jumping on his trampoline, and playing video games.

He is still behind his “typical” peers but is constantly improving.

We had a breakthrough during a family walk this past weekend. Sweetie and I were walking the dogs and SPB was riding his Triton (a high tech tricycle that steers the rear wheels with two levers). His Mom walked off from us a little bit and I asked SPB if he was willing to try his most complicated coordinated multi faceted move so far and he readily agreed. I had my camera to document the event.

I am so proud of the progress he continues to make. I know that the various therapists that have worked with him would be proud of him also.