Hayden has PDD-NOS (figure you can google that yourself). And what that means is that he’s on the autism spectrum. Being on the spectrum simply means that he meets certain criteria that put him there. In Hayden’s case, some of that is from the variability of his abilities.
We’ll be getting the full report later, but for now, I thought this was helpful: Design Pattern: Designing for Multiple Intelligences.
Hayden has a high IQ in spatial (116) and math (119) but is low in linquistic/verbal (73). This variability makes him very frustrated and therefore his social skills are lower.
I’ll let you all know when we get the written report. By then, I’ll be at home again (not working) and will have more time to devote to learning about Hayden’s needs and how to best help him.
Okay so I had to look up PDD-NOS. I went to the Wikipedia article. Under the Characteristics headline, I did notice Hayden fitting into what was being described. As you know, I spent some time with Hayden in Mrs. Greens class. I know you well enough to have been told stories on how much help you have gotten for Hayden over the years. I’m not a doctor, nurse or teacher. Here’s what I have experienced with Hayden…he has an adorable smile! He will sit down and read a book to you. He will answer questions. Hayden is really likable, when he’s in a good mood. When he’s not, well that’s when his stubborn streak come out. Hayden will use the word no a lot if he doesn’t want to do something. He’ll dance around instead of sit quietly. When Hayden gets on this mind track, it’s difficult to focus him again and calm him down. There is frustration on his part because he is so smart, but his month cannot form the words quickly enough that come from his brain. I like Hayden. He’s a cool kid!