I posted before about having a meets section here. I realise now that is probably overkill. But I come up with another idea, which would suit better. What I propose is to have a sticky in the friendship and social interaction topic. The thread would only include up coming meets, and would be kept free of clutter. I believe it is possible to a thread moderator so I'm happy to do that. Otherwise if any of any of the moderators would be happy to do it wouldn't be that much work at all. It could be locked. People who want to hold a meet could PM the moderator with the details. It then could be included concisely. Old meets can be stripped out. There isn't going masses of them, I wouldn't think so it shouldn't be too much trouble. Also it fits in fine with the other stickies. It could also include any regular fixtures/clubs, tips and general safety advice. One thing that I also noticed people like to see who and how many are going to a meet so you can include that too as you get the responses.
The format would be roughly like this:
Frisbee/Kickabout and More — Central Park, NY, USA [Sun, 12th Aug, 2pm-5pm]
User2 is holding and informal get together in the park. There will be various actives ranging from crayon doodling to board games to Frisbee or soccer. There is no pressure to partake, many people sit and watch and get to know each other. There will also food and refreshment for those that want it. People are welcome people to bring along their own games, actives, and interests.
The Science of Spying Exhibition — Science Museum, London, UK [Sun, 12th Aug, 11:30am]
User1 was wondering if anyone would be interested in going to see this with her:
“…explore the skills and abilities required by real agents and use some of the latest technologies that help spies gather and analyse information. Later, go on a secret undercover mission in a rival organisation and discover what it's like to be spied upon. Uncover a secret store of prototype gadgets that give you a glimpse into the future of spy technologies…”
Alex Plank’s Famous Pub Crawl — Dog and Duck, D.C., USA [Sat, 18th Aug, 4:00pm til late]
In time honoured fashion Alex invites you on a tour of his favourite drinking haunts in the historic D.C. area. Sample the best beers, play bar-billiards, darts or just chill out.
Aspie Parent’s meet — Natasha’s place , Dallas TX, USA [Labour Day, 3rd Sep, 10am til noon]
A chance for parent’s on the spectrum to share their experiences and get to know each other. Contact Natasha for details.
Those are just examples but you get the idea.
I’m the first to admit I’m not the most clued up socially. However I’ve learnt a fair bit in recent years. I’ve seen something like this work before. I wouldn’t have made friends without it. From my experience I have a fair idea of what work and what doesn’t. I think it could work for aspies. This fits nicely in one stage of beginning social interaction. Stuff like the personal ad type thread I’ve found is less effective or at least for more advanced level. I do appreciate some who might say ‘why do you need it?’. Well some people like me are just not in contact with people that much in their daily lives. Some people don’t work or have to work at home. The social issue is an important part of ASD. Not everybody is the same in that respect. Before 20 I wasn’t that interested in making friends. Then it took several years to figure out how. I think this could provide a vital service for those who want to and are at that stage.
06 Aug 2007, 6:55 am
