Coping with frustration

Regular kids don’t understand autism. They think I’m just being silly or trying to get attention. They can’t understand that counting comforts me and that I can’t help saying things over and over again. I want to make friends but I just don’t know how. I like my new school much better. There are kids like me there, and the teachers don’t yell at me and tell me to keep still. I’m also doing much better at school now, especially in math. — Mason

Cindy & Mason

My son, Mason, has high-functioning autism. While he was not experiencing any difficulty at home, his school found it difficult to support his needs. He became frustrated at school because of his challenges in getting across his wants and needs, and this frustration led to problem behaviours. The school recommended that we connect with Kinark Child and Family Services. Once in service with Kinark, Mason embarked on a positive new learning experience, participating in the day program at school. Through the support of the teachers there, Mason was able to develop a greater understanding of his own unique characteristics, and improved his ability to cope with various situations. He’s learned to control his anger when he gets frustrated. He has really started to enjoy school more. As a family, this program helped us understand what Mason needs to succeed in school. Now that Mason likes school much better than before, he’s excelling in it. As important as the program was for Mason, the Kinark caseworker was of particular value to me as a parent. She was someone there to talk to and to provide support. She was understanding and non-judgmental and, most importantly, gave us information on different ways of getting support. This wonderful program is helping children with issues who would not necessarily otherwise be able to get help.

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