Brianna and Raymond
Eleven-year old Ray and Brianna are fraternal twins who have been diagnosed with autism. They arrived at Woods in August 2002 following the death of their parents. Neither of the twins could talk and they had difficulty expressing their needs.
Brianna and Ray’s teacher . . .
“We didn’t have room in my class for both of the children when they arrived, so Brianna joined my class first. Because she was withdrawn, I had a difficult time getting to know her. To better understand Brianna’s needs, I visited the twins’ former school and gained some insights that helped me work with her and later, with Ray.
Ray joined our class later on and I’ve enjoyed watching them interact with each other. It’s obvious that they are aware of one another and that they share a connection that is different from the other children. In fact, sometimes they act too much like siblings, and fight over all the petty things brothers and sisters fight over.
Both children have become more verbal since their arrival. Through our Verbal Behavior Program, the kids are making a connection between what they want and asking for it. By combining that program with a Picture Exchange System, we have seen a big difference in their vocalizations. Brianna enters the room everyday with a “good morning.” Ray is working on asking the “why, where, when” questions in order to figure something out.
I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to work with these two special children. I’m enjoying every moment I spend helping them grow as individuals as well as grow in their awareness of their special connection to one another.”
Brianna and Ray’s Aunt . . .
“The change in my niece and nephew has been nothing short of remarkable since their arrival at Woods Services. At the time, they were struggling to cope with all their normal day-to-day experiences and were unable to express their feelings and needs. The twins had lost both their parents to cancer and were in a new and strange environment that posed extraordinary challenges to them.
The team of professionals who work with Raymond and Brianna established careful plans and goals to provide them with positive feedback and successful experiences. Woods’ staff has provided them with a safe, warm, loving environment, both in school and at home, which has allowed them to flourish and grow.
Today they are happy, well-adjusted little children who are learning how to communicate and interact with the world. I thank the Lord every day that He brought Raymond and Brianna to Woods.
