About Me

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Orem, Utah, United States
My name is Annie Campbell and 9 years ago my son was diagnosed with Autism. Over the years of treatments, therapies and schools (with my son) I have learned countless techniques for dealing with children with special needs. Through my experience in primary, I have come up with some specific tips to create a happy atmosphere in church.
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Monday, January 30, 2012

Use your resources

I know! It's been forever.  I'm sorry.

I presented at a teaching workshop yesterday for my primary and something that hit me, was that no matter where you live, you have access to resources.  Of course, there is the internet.  Some great books, one by my friend "disAbilities and the gospel", but one we don't think about often enough, is who do we know?  In my ward, I have a neighbor who teaches Special Ed, another that teaches preschool, a mom who has survived four VERY ADHD boys, and many more.  Use their knowledge and experience!  There is no ONE professional that can do it all.  But if you ask for input and help, I think you would be surprised with how much info you would get.  I have collaborated with many teachers to find something that would fit a particular child.  It's important to remember that each child is an individual and they need to be treated like one.  What works for one child, may not work for another.  That's ok!  Heavenly Father doesn't try to teach us all the same way and we should follow his example.  An awesome side effect of asking for help, is that you will get it!  If other teachers know the situation you are dealing with, they will most likely help during sharing time, either with that child or with the class.

We have one boy in our ward, that I love dearly, but he does try to play adults against each other.  He's really a brilliant boy!  If we are not working together, he will run us over!  Luckily, the whole presidency and his teacher, all communicate and work together as a team.  Because of this, he knows that the rules are ALWAYS the same.