Asperger's

I just returned from a conference in Moorhead on social thinking.  This video was presented and I made sure I tracked it down when I got home so I could watch it again.   It's a short clip of a boy with Asperger's interviewing his mother.  It's a real interview and part of a series of videos, "StoryCorps", produced by NPR.   It's wonderful. 

introverts

Introverts, in contrast, may have strong social skills and enjoy parties and business meetings, but after a while wish they were home in their pajamas. They prefer to devote their social energies to close friends, colleagues, and family. They listen more than they talk, think before they speak, and often feel as if they express themselves better in writing than in conversation. They tend to dislike conflict. Many have a horror of small talk, but enjoy deep discussions.

Susan Cain

(via yourmindisaminefield)

Introverts paradoxically pull away from culture and create culture.

Laurie Helgoe

Bill Gates: My 13 favorite talks

"When Bill Gates was asked to curate a list of his favorite talks (TED), his first response was, “There are too many to pick, really.” He whittled it down to 13 essentials."   #12 was Susan Cain's presentation:

Susan Cain: The power of introverts

"In a culture where being social and outgoing are prized above all else, it can be difficult, even shameful, to be an introvert. But, as Susan Cain argues in this passionate talk, introverts bring extraordinary talents and abilities to the world, and should be encouraged and celebrated."

 

. . . I just realized that the quote at the top of this post is from Susan Cain.  I didn't notice that as I was creating this post until just now!  Funny.  It is also interesting to note that I am totally alone in my home this morning and I have been thinking (and watching "Pioneer Woman" on Food Network).  I think a lot when I'm alone and come up with some great ideas.  I've been mostly thinking about work and why this year has been especially difficult.  Stressful... distressing... frustrating.  And I think I have identified something.  

Because of varying circumstances, my ability to be creative, press on confidently,  and engage in meaningful interactions at work has decreased this year.  As a result, trust and satisfaction have deteriorated.  I'm not sure how my thoughts surrounding introverts and my own personality helped me come to this conclusion, but it did.  I think a renewed understanding of my nature and temperament provided insight into my situation and challenges at work.  I need to make a change.  I think I can do that now that I know what may be at the root of my discouragement.  

cool Christmas game

Life is too busy when there is no time to blog.  That is my world lately.

To ease some of the stress, speech activities have included some Christmas games. . . a welcome relief for both the kids and me.  There are so many excellent online activities.

I'm a huge fan of some of the games on Coolmath.  "sugar, sugar" is one of my favorites.

One of my students spotted a Christmas version of sugar, sugar as we were checking out the Coolmath website. . . it is so cool!  Love the music, the graphics, and love the challenge!

atlas hangs on

I found an adorable reading of a favorite story of mine, "Atlas Hangs on".

The storybook is found on this website.  I read it with my 5th graders.

read the story... read it outloud... and then read it again. :)

Hooda Math

Found another great website-- Hooda Math.   

A student of mine had earned 10 minutes of "game time" and chose the game, sugar sugar.  It's super fun and super clever! 

Last week, another group played goat crossing.  It is similar to a puzzle I played as a kid.  It's pretty challenging.  We had to watch the "walkthrough" on YouTube to solve it. :)   But they keep asking to try it again! 

This is great motivation to complete their speech therapy tasks and earn more "game time"!

snowmen

There are some things I don't like about my job and then there are things I love about it!  I LOVE the kids I work with---4th and 5th graders.  They are wonderful and their artwork cheers me in an instant!  Took a little tour down the 4th grade hallway and snapped some photos of their snowmen.  Each one unique and adorable!  These are a few of my favorites....

...and this last one is my favorite of all!!  funny...