Austism - I'm seeking other parents of autistic children to converse with via e mail or IM.
I have 3 children; one with AS and the other diagnosed PDD/NOS. As I am new to this blogging thing, please have patience with me. Check out my 1st blog at http://michelebeth.blogspot.com. There I go into detail about the issues I have with my children. MICHELE BETH michlovesrick@yahoo.com or michelebeth@hotmail.com

My 11 year old's son emerging puberty makes me nervous - nervous as in, how do I make sure he knowss that everything he is going through is normal? How will I - I mean HE, of course, handle emotions and feelings about his body, sex, peer pressure and my fear of him being taken advantage of? Right now, keeping him in the warm safety of home is okay, but deep down I know he will want and need to spread his little, brave wings to fly. One day he might NOT want to hold my hand, favoring the hand of another. Which is the normal course of life, but can't I just keep him in a big bubble? With his alien and Predator toys, and his beloved assorted movies of UFO's, Selena and time travel???
My youngest daughter, on the other hand, is nine and a half and is eagerly awaiting the arrival of the wonderful world of female puberty. She already knows about and is prepared for feminine hygeine, and will kick any young man's behind if she deems it necessary. HER feelings and emotions I understand, even if she's not quite sure yet. Her own little wings are already prepared for flight. And though her stepfather and I are ready with a shotgun to greet any male suitors, it's my son I feel more protective of, because I know how sly and manipulative young girls can be.
I enjoy reading Marc's blogs very much. I am eagerly awaiting the book "What Every Child with Autism Wish You Knew". To see inside the mind of a person living with auism is a wonderful gift to me, and I thank you Marc, very much!
Any parent who would like to discuss this topic can email me at michlovesrick@yahoo.com or michelebeth@hotmail.com

Matt & Em's mom