Thursday, June 28, 2012

Asperger's Syndrome in the Workplace

My boss at my new job is so awesome! It came up in a conversation that I have Asperger Syndrome. She was so interested in learning more and talking to me about it. Several kids with autism have come through the preschool and a few are enrolled there now. Her husband even does research and works with people with autism! I've never had a boss who would understand so much. She told me she was so excited about getting to know and talk to an adult on the autism spectrum, and that I told her I'm always willing to answer questions. She told me she's always worked with children on the spectrum, and a lot of them don't fully understand their condition and how it affects them. They can't voice some of the things they are feeling or experiencing. Since one of my special interests is actually autism, even before I was diagnosed, I feel I can be one of those voices. 
The other day, my boss even set up a meeting with the other teacher I regularly work with in the afternoons. We talked about how my Asperger's affects me and what we could all do together to make it easier for me in the workplace. She wanted to make sure we all understood each other so no assumptions would be made about anything. We talked about my sensitive hearing and how we needed to work on the noise level in our room. We have little girls that like to squeal and talk loud indoors. They don't seem to understand inside voices. We talked about how I like to be notified of any changes to the schedule a little time beforehand so I can prepare and not be caught off guard. I mentioned how I like there is a printed schedule posted in our classroom so that I know what is coming up next and what time it happens. 
I mentioned how some days can be harder for me and some days can be really good. Therefore, we talked about both of us getting together as teachers at the beginning of our shift and asking each other what kind of day we're having. That way, we'll know beforehand if the other is having a harder day and can compensate. My boss also asked if I had anything I use that helps me cope and keep calm, like a stress ball or something. I do except it's not a stress ball. I use dice. I like to spin them on the table or roll them around in my hand. They also fit in my pocket easier LOL. We talked a little about some other characteristics of autism that don't really affect the workplace but were interesting to both of them. My coworker is actually going to school to be a teacher in public schools. She also said she was interested in learning more about autism. We talked about special interests autistic people have and what mine were. We talked about how Asperger's individuals usually have high IQ's and that I graduated Valedictorian in high school. My boss only knew this because of my resume I turned in to get the job LOL. I loved our conversation and how I have such a supportive boss and coworkers. 

"I live in the same world you do; I just experience it differently. I am a human being with feelings, just like you; I just express them in my own way." ~Me~

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