New Hidden Curriculum Calendar

Unstated Social Rules & Idiomatic Expressions

Fans of the 2007 Hidden Curriculum calendar: The 2008 edition is now available! 

Although the Hidden Curriculum calendar was written with a specific audience in mind—children and adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASD)—the content could be useful to any educator working with students who need additional coaching on how to behave around others and how to interpret idiomatic expressions.

The calendar offers one "hidden curriculum" tip a day (including one for the weekend) that has an unstated rule or custom or an idiomatic expression that some children find confusing. The tips provide a good springboard for talking about social situations, and the 4" x 5" pages could be cut up, laminated, and used as discussion starters for future classes.

It's not just individuals with ASD who need to review these rules and expressions. Read a few entries and see if you agree:

Friday, January 4, 2008
A real friend will never ask you to cheat, steal, or do something illegal. If somebody asks you to do something you know is wrong, that person is not really your friend.

Saturday/Sunday, March 29-30, 2008
It is okay to tell your friends you are not feeling well. However, if you tell them something is wrong with you every day, they may not want to be around you anymore.

Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Do not give out private family information to a stranger on the phone or on the Internet. Some people pretend to be someone else on the phone or Internet where you cannot see them so they can get personal information and use it to hurt you. Know your parents' rules about what information is just for family to discuss.

This calendar, as well as a book about teaching the hidden curriculum, is available for purchase from the Autism Asperger Publishing Company.

Related Links

The Puzzle of Autism—A succinct informational guide for all education personnel who work with students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

Early Diagnosis of Autism—A CDC campaign to help caregivers act early.

Do the Right Thing—A Web site promoting thoughtful, respectful behavior. (NEA)