Despite the fact I work in a special needs school, I'm not very conversant with the conditions some of the kids in the school have. Working in the IT department I don't really need to, to be honest.
However, last week I was informed by the Scout's County Office of a meeting concerning children with ASD (Autistic Spectrum Disorder). So I went along and coincidently it was at work! I have had a Beaver and a Scout with Asperger Syndrome in the Group before, but it helps to learn more.
It was an interesting couple of hours and I learned quite a bit. So when the next child comes along with ASD, we'll be better prepared!
Nick-
You are correct, you never stop learning.
I have a few Scouts in my Troop with Autism of one sort of another. My wife is a “Special Needs” teacher and so I have learned a lot by reading her material and getting her to coach me on some things that are helpful when working with the Scouts.
What I have found is that you should never treat them any different than any other Scout, and that these kids are facinating when you work with them. They are full of potential and Scouting is a fantastic way of bringing that out in them.
Great Topic.
Have a Great Scouting Day!