Autism / Autism Spectrum Support Group
Autism is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder which manifests itself in markedly abnormal social interaction, communication ability, patterns of interests, and patterns of behavior. Although the specific etiology of autism is unknown, many researchers suspect that autism results from genetically mediated vulnerabilities to environmental triggers.
I could really use some advice. My son is 8 and his birthday is in September. Well my issue is that the last week or he has been saying "sleeo and wake up and its my birthday" I have tried to explain to him that his birthday is not for awhile. I downloaded a countdown app on the phone, I showed him the calendar and marked his birthday but he still keeps talking about his birthday. He even wakes me up in the morning and says "today is my birthday". Please help because its going to be a very long summer if he keeps thinking everyday is his birthday. Any suggestions.
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I have 3 kids. 24. 17. 15. My 17 yr old has become super defiant. He and his 15 yr old sister have on their own decision stopped going to their dads because he and his household is so toxic.My 15 yr old and myself feel like we have to tip toe around my son who is 17. And physically towers over us and out weighs us. He has become emotionally abusive and on the verge of becoming physically...
Has he had a friend or relative who recently had a birthday? If he enjoyed their celebration maybe he just wants one of his own? Is he maybe at the point where he could help plan his birthday celebration now? Or would that just 'fuel the fire'?
Would it help to give him his own [paper] calendar. He could review it each night at bed time. Instead of saying "sleep and wake up and it's my birthday" he could try saying "sleep and wake up and it's 89** days until my birthday." ** or whatever the real number is. [If that's too complex for him you could try 'sleep and wake up and tomorrow is not my birthday'.] Then if he wakes you up saying (or mentions at any other time) that that day is his birthday you can review the calendar with him. It might be tedious at first, but possibly after a few days or a week(s?) he'll get the pattern down and keep track for himself. Or, maybe tire of it not being his birthday yet and find something else to be interested in?
That's all that comes to mind right now.
Hang in there.
Wishing you a break.
I remember when he was 4 and in ABA he learned he was 4, then a month later he was 5, but the program he was in ended and he did not have ABA until he was almost 6. He never understood he was 5, until he was almost six. I though he was going to think he was 4 forever! Eventually he understood all about his birthday and the months.
Let him know his birth date and maybe celebrate what ever day that is the event on the calender, or another person's birthday, so he relates to it in the way that he can. Keep at it, as he will get it sooner than you think. Ask him is today the date of his birthday? Show him on many forms, ie the tablet or newspaper or what else. The countdown idea Beryl said is a great idea too!
PS happy Birthday to someone!