That's the Point

ABA (applied behavior analysis) a great... treatment... behavior modification... behaviorism... therapy... whatever you want to call it, I call it "awesome". Amongst the programs (depending on the child's needs) are fine motor skills and manding (requesting). Both of these programs include "pointing":

- fine motor - the ability to control the fine muscles of the body - generally in the hands, feet and head.

http://www.healthline.com/galecontent/fine-motor-skills-2

- manding - requesting; asking for a desired object or activity.

http://globalnaturopath.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=99:manding-applied-verbal-behaviour-avb&catid=45:aba-tips&Itemid=29

Both of these programs (among other things) teach little ones a way to communicate. The fine motor helps to develop the muscles needed for pointing, coloring, cutting, and ultimately writing. This is actually the natural progression for kiddos in general, but for kiddos with ASD (autism spectrum disorder), it doesn't always come easily, or without prompting. Both our boys learned to "point" to things they wanted very early on, but once they regressed... they no longer requested things they wanted in a way we could necessarily understood.

Once we began working with our ABA provider, we learned to work to find the best way to reach and teach our boys. We learned that something so basic as pointing is something HUGE to kiddos with autism. We had been taught as children that it was rude to point. Now, all those years later, we had to learn a different way of thinking.

We've come to realize that we now have to look at all the steps that it takes to complete a process. Things we take for granted, that for us - come naturally. We don't think about all the "little" steps it takes to complete a process. A basic example would be: "pointing" - identity the object you are being asked to point at; figure out which finger is the "proper" finger to point with; straighten the finger; point directly to the object. Simplified, yes, easy... not always for someone on the spectrum.

Since autism is a neurological disorder, it's always good to be reminded (at least to me) of what this means. The neurological system, or the nervous system, regulates and controls the complete body. There are two parts to it, the Central and the Peripheral Nervous System. When the nervous system doesn't work properly it can affect the: eyes, ears, sensory organs for of taste and smell, and sensory receptors of the various parts of the body. Helping it to work properly can be a major task, or at least learn how to interpret information it receives.

http://medicalcenter.osu.edu/patientcare/healthcare_services/nervous_system/about/Pages/index.aspx

It's no wonder that kiddos with autism need to be specifically taught to do some of the basic functions we take for granted. Even those who learn some of these skills can lose them with regression and need to be "retaught". I know I'm grateful for all of those who've gone before us and learned what they have about ASD. That our kiddos - at least in the United States - are not longer institutionalized just because of autism.

From from pointing to speaking (if verbal) and identifying things, kiddos on the spectrum can and will learn if we can just remember to have patience. We must remember that most of the things we take for granted, must be "broken down" in order to teach someone with ASD. This can be as challenging for us as it is for them to learn. When was the last time you stopped and thought about the steps it took to blow your nose, throw kisses, what it takes to pick up a pencil and color or even get dressed.

From a mother's heart - all the little things we take for granted may be a challenge to someone else. Being patient and helping them learn those steps well, that's the point - isn't it?
God Bless!