Today I was welcomed into my son’s 3rd grade class (in public school) to read a picture book called “Understanding Sam and Asperger Syndrome” (by van Niekerk and Venter) and share some important information with the students. My husband and I requested this opportunity about a month ago because Ethan has been having some pretty huge challenges with classmates regarding friendship and social issues and we want to do everything possible to give Ethan (and his classmates) the tools they need to be successful in working through these complications. We are very open with Ethan about his diagnosis and the reason for many of his struggles and as a result he is also very open with others in his life so we felt this was a natural next step. During the pre-planning meeting with school staff held to discuss today’s visit, I was also told that we could send a letter home with the kids to help inform parents! I’ve been really excited as I have prepared for this opportunity and I absolutely loved spending 20 minutes with the children today.
For reasons not conveyed to me, the school staff chose not to send my full letter home with the students and decided instead to send an abbreviated version. While the abbreviated version listed some important information (and is of course a good start – for which I am appreciative), it didn’t convey a large portion of what we felt was significantly important...
With that stated, I hope that my letter in its entirety might help some of our readers here. It is printed below.

As we prepare to say goodbye to 2011 this week, we at AutismSpot wanted to re-share a few of our favorite blog posts from the year as a means of recollection. As I carefully sifted through AutismSpot’s Founder – Kent Potter’s – posts, I was touched again by so many of his pieces. Kent has a beautiful way with words and often tackles subjects regarding autism and Asperger’s Syndrome which beg to be addressed, but he does it with candid grace. Kent and Angie Potter (and their amazing family) inspire me in many ways but I can never thank them enough for sharing their insights (and those of others) with everyone at AutismSpot over the years. I am so thankful to call Kent both colleague and friend. It is my pleasure to repost Kent Potter’s post entitled “One More Step” which originally ran back in September. Thanks for the powerful reminder and lovely illustration that small wins count BIG, Kent! I couldn’t agree more.