Wednesday 20 August 2008

Collaboration


It's been in my mind for some while that Jordan and I should collaborate on a story book together that could be enjoyed by and relevant to students with learning disabilities and their neurotypical peers of all ages.

Jordan has been talking about living on his own in the forest so I thought an adventure story that could also be seen as a metaphor for independence would be the way to go.

ME: So, you're in the forest and you feel thirsty. Where would you get a drink?

J: From the river! (accompanied by a roll of the eyes).

ME: What happens if you get hungry?

J: Don't eat leaves. Kick a tree and an apple will fall into your hand.

ME: Good answer! Where will you sleep when you get tired?

J: Behind the tree. (Demonstrates snoring technique).

As you can see it's still in the planning and development stage. We're off to Spain soon so we'll kick an outline into place there.

Tuesday 12 August 2008

P-A-R-T-Y? Because he's gotta...


We spent the weekend in Halifax at a friend's thirtieth birthday. Jordan did what he always does, which is to sit and watch it all going on around him. What with the flashing lights and loud music, I think he does well to do this for a boy with autism. One half pint of Foster's and a request for his fave tune (Hey Baby by DJ Otzi since you ask) and my boy threw walking aids and caution to the wind and took the floor in fine style. He stuck it out for three songs before heat exhaustion threatened. A BIG step forward in every sense.

Monday 4 August 2008

BEER AND WEAPONS


Two new, ahem, developments. Jordan wants to wear armour and wield a sword. Yes that's right, a sword. Armour I can handle but weapons I'm not so sure about. For a start, we live in Peckham which has all sorts of knife issues. Not that I'd let Jordan loose outside with a sword you understand, it's just that they aren't toys (which I can't make him understand) and it's practically guaranteed that it would be my eye on the tip of it in the event of an accident. So, Jordan's going around singing 'If I only had a sword..." to the tune of 'If I only had a heart..." from The Wizard of Oz.
In other news, Jordan has tasted beer and likes it! Well, he is 17. He got very giggly and slid off the swivel chair.