The Red Kite Project - Autism Documentary Film Summary

The Red Kite Project - Autism Documentary Film Summary

This YouTube video is a clip from a documentary called “The Red Kite Project” and offers insight about what autism is and an inspiring approach that has helped many children with autism.

As you watch through the video, there are some key areas that you may want to pay particular attention to:

6:12 Many people may say “autistic person” when a more correct term is “people with autism”

6:26 People with autism have difficulty communicating with others and it may seem that they are disinterested or completely do not understand what you are saying. However, it is more of a communication barrier, they have “thoughts, feeling, preferences…sense of humor” and personality (Dr. Bennett Leventhal).

6:52 Difficulty expressing/interpreting expression so it causes them to be frustrated. The problem is further escalated because they find it hard to communicate why they are frustrated

(From what I have learned about from inclusion training with the City of Edmonton while working as a playground leader last year was that it is helpful to have a set schedule that people with autism [and people with ADHD] and distinct transitions to the next game or activity. This helps the individuals organize their thoughts so they won’t become frustrated)

7:43 It is hard for them come up with ways to express themselves. Showing emotions is a challenge for them and the beauty of this video is that it can be taught. This leads to increased happiness and confidence because people start to be able to understand what they are trying to communicate.

8:10 Autism probably develops during fetal development and results in a change in the way the central nervous system (CNS) develops

Summary: The arts, such as drama can be a way to help teach children with autism how to express themselves and improve their quality of life