What is Autistic savant? A condition in which a person with Autism spectrum disorder, demonstrates profound and prodigious capacities or abilities far in excess of what would be considered normal. Demonstrating brilliance in specific areas, such as rapid calculation, art, memory, or musical ability. Kim Peek (The real Rain Man) Even though youve never heard of Kim Peek, chances are youve heard the movie Rain Man. Kim was the inspiration for the character played by Dustin Hoffman in the movie. Kim Peek was born with severe brain damage. His childhood doctor told Kims father to put him in an institution and forget about the boy. Kims severe developmental disabilities, according to the doctor, would not let him walk let alone learn. Kims father disregarded the doctors advice. But what Kim can do is astounding: he has read some 12,000 books and remembers everything about them. Kimputer, as he is lovingly known to many, reads two pages at once - his left eye reads the left page, and his right eye reads the right page. It takes him about 3 seconds to read through two pages - and he remember everything on em. Kim can recall facts and trivia from 15 subject areas from history to geography to sports. Tell him a date, and Kim can tell you what day of the week it is. He also remembers every music he has ever heard. Only about 10% of Autistics have savant abilities.
Posted on: Sun, 27 Apr 2014 07:50:15 +0000