Book review

I was recently given the opportunity to review a book by author Lisa Jo Rudy called: Get Out, Explore, and Have Fun!: How Families of Children With Autism or Asperger Syndrome Can Get the Most Out of Community Activities.

 She talked about not sheltering our kids from the world just because they are autistic. The book covers various activities that kids with autism can be involved in which are available in the community. These include but are not limited to: scouts, various sports, camps, special interest groups, and YMCA. This book exposes parents to children on the spectrum of a variety of different community opportunities. There is a section which tells about various sports, groups and camps and how they are suitable for different types of kids. There is also a part that tells about various practical difficulties with kids who have autism like eating out and religious activities and how they can be done better. There is a resource section which gives more information about other materials. I think it is a great resource for families who feel as though they are stuck at home and that the community is not going to accept autism and everything that comes with it. This books goes to show there are a would of opportunities for kids on the spectrum to thrive in very typical settings and community outings.

We have never been a family who has let Katlynn’s autism get the best of us. From her birth and since her diagnosis, we have always been a get up and go family. In fact, I think because we are like that, Katlynn has adjusted to the flexible routine we have and behaves quite well with few tantrums and issues when out and about. Of course I always take into consideration mealtimes and nap times, but even if those are not on schedule, she seems to adjust to changes pretty well.

So, I figured I would seek out another opportunity to get the family out in the community for a morning of fun.

A friend told us about a bowling day called Bowlopolis where the kids can bowl for 2 hours and get free lanes, shoes rentals, pizza, drinks and ice cream. We decided to try it with the kids and who know bowling could be so much fun. The kids had a blast. In fact, I think Katlynn had the most fun of all. She really enjoyed following direction and playing the game. It was totally worth it. In fact, signed the twins up for a league for toddlers.