1. Let’s Meet Maddie Ray! This is Maddie Maddie lives with her mom and dad in Shawnee. She has a sister and brother. Their names are Regan (16) and Jared (14). Maddie has 2 pet fish (Tiger and Bubbles).

2. What does Maddie like? Maddie enjoys : music, swimming, riding horses, playing outside, and going to church Summer Vacation: This summer Maddie went to Disney World Maddie likes to play with : puzzles, play doh, stickers, iPad games, her doll house, and cars Maddie’s favorite shows/movies : Blue’s Clues, Dora, Bubble Guppies, Tree Fu Tom, Scooby Doo, Monsters Inc. & University Fun Stuff!

3. Maddie has autism – what is that?  Autism is not something you can catch. It’s something Maddie was born with.  Maddie’s brain works differently and some things are harder for her like: talking, sitting still, writing, throwing a ball, and riding a bike  Kids with autism are smart, they just learn and communicate differently  Maddie will always have autism, but with help and a lot of practice, things will get easier for her Autism

4. How does Maddie feel? Feelings  Maddie has the same feelings you and I do but has a hard time communicating them  Maddie understands almost everything we say. But she has trouble telling us what she is thinking and feeling and that can be frustrating for her.  Maddie is very sensitive to movement, light, and sound. It is hard for her to focus and sit still in busy places.

5. Why does she do that? Feelings  Maddie flaps her hand and jumps when she is excited and happy  She rocks back and forth when she is nervous or tired  Maddie might grit her teeth or yell when she is angry or upset  If she smiles at you, gives you a gentle shove, or touches your face or neck, she likes you

6. How can we help Maddie?  Remember we are all different, and that’s ok!  When Maddie gets frustrated stay calm; sing a happy song  Try to include Maddie when you play, do something she likes  Be patient; teach her how to play with you  Even if Maddie doesn’t play with you, she is watching and learning from you!  Don’t give up! Keep trying to be a friend. Be a Friend