Autism News

I just had to write a post on this little tidbit from the news. I don’t follow most news topics very closely. For heaven’s sake, my friend had to call me to let me know tornadoes were on their way, because she knows we don’t watch television.  She figured I would need the heads up. Thanks Mel!

However, I do follow autism news and April happens to be my favorite month. Mostly because of autism awareness, and I kinda dig all the chocolate that comes with Easter. This autism news report touched my heart in a way very few stories ever do. So, I am sharing.

Sheila Chako, a teacher from California, wrote the most beautiful letter to her students with autism. I can’t do the letter justice by quoting only snippets of it. So, please take a moment and read the letter in its entirety.

http://sprinkleteachingmagic.blogspot.com/2014/03/dear-autistic-student.html

“Dear Child With Autism-

You brighten each and every day.  You may not know this but I look forward to school because of you.  I know school is hard.  Every day I see the worry on your face.  School goes quickly.  Daily changes throw you off-course.  You worry.  About yourself.  You cry because you have no friends.  No one invites you to their birthday party.  You worry about the weather.  In a drought, will the animals suffer? You obsess…

…I am your teacher, and I will fight for you every day.  I just see you. Thank you for being you.

Love,

Your Teacher”

https://www.facebook.com/SprinkleTeachingMagic

http://www.pinterest.com/SheilaJaneIdeas/

Many teachers are so overwhelmed by the immense load they carry in the classroom, that they miss out on the little connections that leave a lasting impact. Ms. Chako has clearly mastered the art of living in the moment, and finding the simple pleasures in making children smile. She reaches out to the anxiety these children struggle with, and lovingly brushes it away. She clearly loves the little quirks and personalities each of her students brings to the class. I have to sing the praises of this teacher. I don’t know her, but this letter is a window into the classroom where she will write on the slate of each child’s soul.