Lecciones

Wow! So, yesterday I gave a speech of sorts to the teachers of San Martin about autism. I fully anticipated maybe 5 teachers to show, but lo and behold, at least 30 attended!

I covered the basics of autism education: the definition of autism, the functions of behaviors, what reinforcement is, when to use punishment, and when to give praise. I also brought up the topic of functional curriculum. Why teach how to write animal names, when the children don't know safety signs? Teach what will serve them in the long run.

I was so incredibly nervous, it was alarming. They had so many questions, and I did my best to answer them all. Today, many thanked me and had me meet their students with autism. Humbling for real.

My Vivian came to school! Nela called her mom and made sure I got a chance to see her this week.

Today, I spoke with a sweet fellow named Pedro. Pedro is 19 and still attends San Martin. San Martin got a new carpentry teacher this year who is incredible! Pedro is now building beautiful bookcases, sanding, staining, etc by himself! I took a short interview with him.

Walked all around town... just walked. It was glorious. I also bought some dvds for when I get my wisdom teeth out in August. Blerg. But I've got Adam, Secret Life of Bees, and the first season of Glee.

Videos to come!