Not Special Needs, But Special Skills

An MSNBC report today described a global "quiet movement" towards embracing the things people with disabilities can do rather than focusing on the things they can't.

According to the report, certain companies actively seek potential employees with certain disabilities, such as Asperger's Syndrome, an Autism spectrum disorder.  Often times, the symptoms of a disorder that make social interaction difficult can actually prove useful in the workplace.

Sing a song of celebration today to remind you and your child of all the things he or she can do! 

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34047713/ns/health-mental_health/

Promising Study on Behavior Therapy for Children with Autism

The University of Washington published a study indicating behavior therapy for children as young as 18 months can significantly improve symptoms of autism and result in a milder diagnosis over time.

Behavior therapy aims to strengthen social skills, like making eye contact, which are difficult for children with autism to master. Social interaction through music can be a kind of behavior therapy. An important difference between the children in the study who improved and those who did not was the level of parental involvement at home. Singing with your child at home is so easy, all you need is your voice! Incorporate some of the simple songs you see on this blog into your daily routine today!

For more details about the study, visit:
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/11/30/health/main5835842.shtml