Asperger Mom

My ten year old has recently been in a few fights at school. He’s usually not the instigator, but once a fight erupts he feels the need to defend a friend in need. Since friendships and social skills are not his strong point he is confused about what to do in these situations. He feels very strongly that he needs to stand by his friends and help out. When he gets frustrated at home with his sister, my boys first instinct is to hit his sister.

Our boy met his best friend in Kindergarten, now six years later they are still buddies. They have their ups and downs, but have managed to stay friends over the years. His friend’s father had given him a hat and it has become his favorite hat. A bully took it and was throwing it on the ground stamping on it at recess, so my son’s friend yelled at this bully and the bully punched him. Once the fight began my son joined in to defend his best friend and a few others joined in until five boys ended up in the principals office.

Neither of our children are leaders, they both tend to be followers. I’m at a loss … how do I teach him to NOT HIT? We’ve had discussions about hitting and the that hitting is NEVER appropriate, but I’m not sure he is getting it. My husband and I don’t allow fighting video games and we monitor the computer and television. Our son loves cars, car or driving related video games … this is his obsession. So he can tell you anything about a car.

I’m just not sure where this new fighting/hitting is coming from? Anyone else have experience with fights or hitting and have any ideas or suggestions for curbing it?

As always, thanks for reading and commenting!

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