Spectrum Disorders Network News

April 2013 Issue 29

Inside this issue: The Unique Strengths and Abilities of Individuals with Autism Disorders (ASD) regularly make the headlines due to alarming prevalence Article-Unique strengths 1 rates, lengthy waiting lists for both assessment and treatment services, as well as the lifelong learning and behavioural challenges experienced by individuals with ASD and their families. St. Thomas 2 While each of these issues are serious ones that merit being addressed by health, social, and edu- cational services, in celebration of April’s Autism Awareness Month, this article will focus on Lindsay Place 3 a different perspective for examining Autism: One which emphasizes the unique strengths and abilities of individuals who have an ASD.

Westwood Jr. 3 For numerous years, Dr. Laurent Mottron, a leading researcher in the field of ASD has asserted that, rather than addressing ASD as a deficit-based disorder that needs to be treated, individuals Walk 3 with Autism could also be regarded as people who have unique advantages relative to neuro- typical individuals. For example, Cowen (2009) states that people with Autism

Coming Soon 3 “are better at noticing details in patterns, they have better visual acuity, they are less likely to be fooled by optical illusions, they are more likely to fit some canons of economic rationality, they solve many puzzles at a much faster rate, St. Patrick 4 and they are less likely to have false memories of particular kinds. Autistics also have, to varying degrees, strong or even extreme abilities to memorize, perform operations with codes and ciphers, perform calculations in their head, or excel in many other specialized cognitive tasks” ASD Team Members: In a variety of professions, individuals with Autism have made remarkable contributions to their ● Patricia Assouad particular field. For example, , PhD in Animal Science, is a renowned profes- ASD Consultant sor, author, and autism activist who has been celebrated for her work in developing humane ● Dr. Andrew Bennett treatment of livestock. More locally, Michelle Dawson, is a researcher with numerous publica- Psychologist-Coordinator tions who is regarded as an integral team member of the Clinique Spécialisé de l’autisme at the University of Montreal since 2004. Her research interests include Autism and Intelligence and ● Katie Cohene (on leave) the Ethics of Autism Research. Finally, Eric Bent is a young Quebec artist and filmmaker who recently presented a series of short animations at the first annual Regarding Disability Film Fes- ● Jovette Francoeur tival in Montreal. It is worth noting that each of these individuals claim that their passion for Special Needs Consultant Coordinator their specific area of interest, their attention to small details and their extreme focus, all charac- teristics of ASD, have helped them achieve success in their respective fields. ● Sabrina Gabriele (on leave) Even individuals with ASD described as low-functioning or severe have shown incredible gifts ASD Consultant and talents. Alex Maskett is one example of a New York graphic artist who is completely self- ● Joëlle Hadaya (on leave) taught and whose art is being talked about and sought worldwide. For more information or to Occupational Therapist view the unique artwork of Mr. Maskett, visit the site www.alexmaskett.com or the heartwarm- ing film Breaking Boundaries: The Art of Alex Maskett. ● Jade Lawsane ASD Consultant How does all of this relate to our work as educators? Firstly, it is essential that we create a cli- mate of acceptance that promotes diversity in our schools. This includes publicly celebrating ● Sasha Zalob and identifying the strengths of students who have autism. Secondly, it is imperative to ensure ASD Consultant that every student with ASD have equal opportunity and access to the general curriculum, re- gardless of their age or “apparent” cognitive ability. Students with ASD have different learning ● Cheryl McDonald styles and rates of learning. Even though some students may not appear to have learned or mas- ASD Consultant tered a specific academic concept in the moment, they may demonstrate understanding of these

concepts later in the future. This speaks to the value of providing abundant learning opportuni- ● Helene Packman Speech & Language ties and not limiting potential by focusing only functional curriculum and ADL skills. Finally, it Pathologist is essential to nurture special interests and strengths as these may lead to valuable contributions and meaningful careers in the future. Cowen, T. (2009). Create Your Own Economy: The Path to Prosperity in a Disordered World. New York: Dutton Publications. Page 2 Autism Spectrum Disorders Network News

This edition of the newsletter celebrates some of the work done by students. Happy Autism Awareness!! St. Thomas High School

Anthony

Issue 29 Page 3

Thank you to Andrea Bertalan, (Lester B. Pearson work skills consultant) and students from Lindsey Place High School’s work skills training program for preparing this newsletter for distribution!

By Kevin at Westwood Jr. High School

By Paulo Lindsay Place

Montreal’s 3rd annual walk fundraiser and family event Sunday, May 26, 2013 8:30am Registration,10am Walk starts at Stade Uniprix (metro de Castelnau) The Centre for Excellence’s team name is «On the Move». To form a team or support our team please go to www.autismspeaks.ca

Coming Soon Coping with Anxiety -Techniques that Help Students with ASD Guest speaker: Adriana Karka Friday, May 17, 2013, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Lakeside Academy High School Register online before May 10th: www.goldlearningcentre.com Parents $40, Professionals $50 Autism Spectrum Disorder Team Page 4 Autism Spectrum Disorders Network News

Our team is comprised of professionals with a variety of specializations. Desig- nated as a Centre of Excellence within the province, our mandate is to assist LBPSB schools in the implementation of best practices for the of students with an ASD and to serve as a resource to the other English school boards in Quebec. Our team provides assistance to students and families and works to support educational personnel in augmenting their capacity to meet a wide range of needs in the classroom. We do this through direct intervention, Lester B. Pearson School Board coaching, consulting, professional development, and the sharing of materials. 1925 Brookdale Avenue Dorval, Quebec Phone: 514-422-3000 We’re on the web! Fax: 514-422-3014 http://www2.lbpsb.qc.ca/eng/asdn/index.asp

Jordan—Grade 2 Kabir–Grade 4

Grade 4

Kabir– Grade 4

Aris -Grade 3