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Stories by Laurie
Lucas |
The pair work in a trailer tucked away in a corner of the campus at California State University, San Bernardino. There are 12 children in two rooms: one room with six Macintosh computers; the other with tables, chairs, puzzles, toys, books and games. Modular walls separate each play station. This environment is part of the University Center for Developmental Disabilities, a behavior modification program for autistic children. The service is so successful and in such demand, there's a six-month waiting list of 30 children. |
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Early
intervention can help a child suffering from autism to
get into a regular school by helping both the parents and
the child cope with the symptoms. |
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"Go Home," Derry
tells the guest. "Go home now." His voice rises,
his face reddens; he teeters on the brink of a
tantrum.
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Quietly and calmly, Sandy
Sebree, 52, manages to avert meltdown by turning off her
grandson's out-of-control switch. She doesn't raise her
voice or scold Derry. Instead, she ignores his anger,
affectionately pats his shoulder and shifts gears,
steering talk into his model-car collection. |
Dr. Swartz was the director of the University Center for Developmental Disabilites from 1994-1997.
Professor of Education 5500 University Parkway California State University San Bernardino, CA 92407-2397 Tel.: 909-880-5601 Fax: 909-862-4045 EMail: sswartz@wiley.csusb.edu |