THEIR MOST IMPORT THING IS TO HAVE FRIENDS LIKE EVERYONE
Imagine trying to make friends when you have trouble reading social cues, like body language, facial expressions and tones of voice. An important part of making friends comes from having age-appropriate social skills, which many kids who have autism struggle with. That’s part of the reason approximately 52 percent of kids with autism spectrum disorder don’t have many friends at school. Making friends isn't always easy and can be especially challenging for kids with autism.
Kids who have autism, just like all kids, benefit from having friends in their peer groups. Their most import thing is to have friends just like everyone else.
Happy Rocks Friendship Bracelets - Our friendship bracelets are a meaningful way to show someone you care. Not only are they a popular fashion accessory, but they also hold a special significance because they represent the bond of friendship between two people and supporting Autism Awareness.
With the autism spectrum being so broad and affecting many children, there may already be a child in the room that has an autistic sibling and recognizes the situation to take it upon themself to initiate a friendship.
Our Approach
Hello My Name is - "Feelings"
With love and kindness, I've been created for you…
To remind you to smile, if your emotions are blue.
You can give me a name or keep it the same…
I symbolize Awareness; is what I'm seeking to gain.
Please watch over me as I need love and care…
Your days won’t always be easy and sometime seem unfair.
They may not always go as planned…
You may not agree or understand.
I have magical powers hidden deep inside…
I'll be your friend as you display me with pride.
Share me with others if you don’t mind…
The gift of happiness you will find.
I'll comfort you if you’re stressed or mad…
I'll make you happy if your emotions are sad.
In your hand or pocket a rock filled with glee…
I will make your emotions a cheerful feeling… you’ll see.
-Rockin Happy Rocks (All rights reserved)
There's Multiple Layers Upon Layers
Keeping in contact with friends can be difficult because people on the autism spectrum may not know how often to contact their friend and may become upset and disappointed if their friend doesn’t reply for whatever reason.
- This may cause overwhelming anxiety and frustration.
- They may also worry if their friend doesn’t message them very often because they may think they are purposely distancing themselves.
- This can mean the individual with autism becomes socially isolated, meaning they have limited opportunities to make new friends.
The Use of CHOSEN Words
Despite the growing number of autistic children educated in mainstream classrooms, many students are not familiar with autism and/or their emotions. Despite some recognition of the disability, they have little knowledge of its characteristics, such as chosen words, communication and social skill challenges.
Our inspirational "Rockin Happy Rocks" have all been created with brightly colored hand painted designs. This Happy Rock has an "Upbeat" look. We like to recognize friendships, manners, happiness and confidence through our educational materials we offer.
Autistic and non-Autistic teens share their point of vIEW
" Autism across the spectrum, there’s no real reason to treat those with Autism any differently than those who don’t have it! "
PEER INCLUSION - WE ALL HAVE HOPES AND DREAMS
We are grateful for people like you. Partnering with us can play a role in helping with Autism Awareness and Education. Help facilitate the lives of every autistic child to thrive for a better tomorrow.