Teen group breaks down barriers with autistic kids
In suburban Gurnee on a wintry Sunday afternoon, a group of friends gathered at a local gymnasium for a game of Nerf tag. The children, ranging in grades from middle through high school, seemed like a typical group. However, they came together for a specific aim: to make friends with other children experiencing the challenges of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
C.U.F.F. stands for “Connect and Unite for Friendship,” and was founded in 2007 by Tracy Adams. Working with similar children through her position as Language and Social Skills Opportunities Itinerant at the Special Education District of Lake County, Adams saw a need that wasn’t being met.
“I started this group because I saw that in middle school, the friends that these kids had seemed to go by the wayside,” she said. “Some of the students I have were wondering if they were the only ones out there with this disorder. So, I felt I needed to show them that there are tons of other kids out there with (high functioning) Asperger’s and autism. I just met a girl at a local high school who is currently feeling the same way. She was unaware that there are a bunch of kids right in her building.”
Many of the children served have felt alone or left behind as they grow into adolescence. They may have a hard time connecting and maintaining friendships with neuro-typical children in their school or communities. Adams believes these students understand they are “different” from their classmates. Having a place to go to forge new bonds in a supportive atmosphere is extremely valuable.
This particular Sunday, there were quite a few newcomers to the group.
“For a new person, it’s double-intimidating, being in a new social situation and having Autism,” Adams said. Sitting in a circle, each child introduced him or herself and shared their interests. As each child rattled a list ranging from bowling, singing, drawing, dancing and writing, heads nodded. “Me too! We have to talk later,” could be heard.
With captains assigned and tumbling mat barricades assembled, the teams were chosen. The game was delayed due to the conversations already in progress. Once the Nerf blasters were loaded and ready, the game began. While kids were being frozen by the opposing team and thawed by companions, one child sat and observed. While there is never any pressure to participate, Adams asked a more experienced member to check on the boy and encourage him.
“Some kids have different ideas of fun, just being near and watching may be enough.”
Many of the participants know what it is to have a peer helper through school or therapies they are involved in. Adams explained, “There is a difference between being a helper and a friend. I want them to be friends with one another, it’s a different relationship.” To be surrounded by true peers is the goal.
Adams’ objective is to have the kids set up the activity and instruct each other, rather than being overly guided by an adult. While they get together to hang out and have fun, important social skills are being practiced.
The barricades were reduced in size and the game quickly sped up. After a long bout of running and dodging, a snack was enjoyed by all, allowing time for visiting.
“For the teenagers, often the favorite part is sitting and chatting.”
After reconvening and enjoying another game, their time together came to an end. With goodbyes exchanged, pictures were later posted on the group’s Facebook page.
The favorite caption was from Adams herself:“Isn’t that just how it is? It’s a LOT more fun once the barricades come down.”
And this is exactly what C.U.F.F. provides. C.U.F.F. meets in various Lake County locations on a monthly basis for approximately two hour social events. Favorite activities have included Jump America, ice cream sundae making, martial arts instruction, mini golf and pizza parties. To volunteer or participate, contact Tracy Adams at cuff_kids@yahoo.com.
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