Lessons to be learned from the primary school experiences of a boy with Asperger Syndrome

Abstract

This article explores how successful inclusion was for a boy diagnosed with Asperger syndrome during his K-6 primary school years. The author observed Harry's journey through a private Catholic primary school during Kindergarten, and at a State primary school system during his first year through to his sixth year Harry's Asperger Syndrome came to the attention of his parents because staff had reported that he preferred to spend most of his time at day care isolated from others and was reluctant to join in group work. Additionally, he had produced art work and sculptures at three years of age at a level that was far beyond his years. The formal diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome was accompanied by medication, specifically Ritalin to help him slow down his thinking and assist him to focus and pay attention.