Blog Day 6- Mockingbird

Still linking up with BTL for the July Blog Challenge.  Thanks Michelle!
I am going to blog about a book called, "Mockingbird" and a little bit about Autism/Aspergers.

I am halfway through and absolutely love it.  It is like you are in the mind of the main character, Caitlin.  Caitlin is an 11 year old girl who has Aspergers and her brother just passed away.  It is written in her point of view and there are times, as a reader, you laugh out loud and you start to tear up.  This book references an all time favorite book of mine, "To Kill a Mockingbird" which makes this read even more fascinating and hard to put down.

My friend, Clair, recommended the book to me and she believes that every teacher should read it.  As a teacher, you may forget sometimes how students with autism or Aspergers really think.  Remember: literal.  For example, in the book Caitlin's teacher says, "How would you feel if you were in her shoes."  Duh, that doesn't make sense to individuals who are on the spectrum.  Later on in the chapter, Caitlin tries to understand how it is to be in her father's shoes and literally puts on his shoes.   Expressions don't make sense unless the expression is taught to the individual and is practiced using it in their vocabulary.
I have worked with many kids and students with autism and it is a lot of work to stop and think and use what you know (strategies, communication, and patience).  At the same time, these students can light up your day with the silly things they say or their knowledge on a particular subject/topic.
As a teacher, I have learned that you have to try and see what they see.  Not literally.  Try and see how they see the world.  They may not seem like they are on task because the sound in the room is taking over their thinking, or the smell of lunch being ready can totally stop the students focus.

I've been watching a lot of TedTalks videos.  I have to keep my mind working this Summer!  These are quick and helpful each night as I am still trying to relax but enjoy some quality info.
This video is very interesting. Wendy Lampen speaks how she sees the world.

Enjoy the video and share any of your experiences or resources below!