Expert: James Michael Roan - 5/16/2007

Question
Hi James,
You have helped me in the past so I hope you may give me some guidance now.  My son with HFA/Aspergers is 7 years old.  He is starting to become aware (by other childrens teasing and being mean, that he is different.  Is it appropriate to tell him his diagnosis?  & how is this best put to a 7 year old?  He has no friends and wishes for them so badly....I am thinking of having him put back into a High Functioning Autism class so that he can be around other children with special needs I don't want his self esteem to be shattered by the teasing he is being subject to.  I would love your opinion.  Thank you so much for your time.  

Answer
Hi Annette;

Thank you for the kind words and feedback.

Use the diagnostic label when you think it is appropriate. You want him to know about it before he hears it from someone else. Have a good day!

Regards,
James