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    3 Tips for dealing with Covid and your child.#Autism ChallengesšŸ§©

    COVID and Autism Schedules

    Covid and autism schedules
    Mom is always there; she has COVID-19, now what?

    Okay, so here we go again. I’m down with Covid once more. Covid and autism schedules are hard when you’re sick. Attempting to quarantine myself to prevent anyone else from falling ill, but Jacob doesn’t quite grasp the concept. He’s eager to burst into my room with his repertoire of movie quotes or to share his latest Amazon wishlist item. Thank goodness for the marvels of modern technology, allowing us to order groceries online and swing by for contactless pick-up. I’ve stocked up on all of Jake’s essentials, but I seriously need a guard dog or a lock on my door. Even my poodle, loyal as she is, is more into playtime than patrol duty.šŸ˜·šŸ‘¦šŸ¼šŸ§©

    A schedule helps when you get Covid!

    Tip 1: Embrace Online Grocery Shopping

    Covid and autism schedules
    During sickness like Covid stick to a schedule with kids!

    My first tip? Embrace the wonders of online grocery shopping. Find a convenient store that allows you to order online and pick up your groceries without leaving your car. Harris Teeter our favorite grocery store, has drive thru pickup. Covid, did not beat us here! Alternatively, services like Insta cart can deliver groceries straight to your doorstep. It’s a game-changer, trust me. šŸ›’šŸ’»

    Jacob has inventory of all his favorite staples and always tells me what to get on my way out the door! We have started taking him for a weekly grocery store trip just for him! Peanut butter, cereal and milk and Harris Teeter’s chocolate chip cookies. šŸŖ

    Master the Art of Quarantine

    Tip 2:

    Covid and autism schedules
    Covid Quarantine Zone- Off Limits! Lock the door if you have to!

    Secondly, quarantine like a pro. Social stories that you can give to help the child understand to stay away when someone is sick with Covid.Ā https://autismlittlelearners.com/autism-little-learners-covid-social-stories/ Learn from my mistakes and ensure that your quarantine zone is strictly off-limits. Unfortunately, my attempts at barricading the door were futile, and Jacob made himself right at home. Coming in and grabbing my iPad to show me what he wanted from Amazon. Make sure your space is off-limits and enlist the help of family members to enforce the rules.šŸ”’šŸš«

    Stick to Routine

    Tip 3:

    Thirdly, stick to your routine. If you’re lucky enough to have your child on a schedule, routines are a lifesaver. Covid and autism schedules? Covid is not as bad with a child who already has a schedule laid out! Need help with that? Check out this post: 3 Ways Jacobā€™s Monthly Calendar and Daily Schedule Work on Autism Island! Not only do they give you the rest you need to heal, but they also provide a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos. And don’t forget to stock up on essentials like ibuprofen and Alka Seltzer Cold and Flu to help you weather the storm.ā°šŸ”„ Here’s another blogger on schedules:Ā https://www.healthline.com/health/visual-schedule-autism

    Stay Prepared and Stay Strong

    In times like these, preparation is key. Having Jake’s weekly work organized in zippered bags and his clothes laid out for the week has been a game-changer. This solved the problems of being sick with Covid and having to worry about schedules for autism. It takes the guesswork out of our daily routine and gives me the peace of mind I need to focus on getting better.šŸ’ŖšŸ§¼

    Here’s a helpful resource I stumbled upon that offers tips on managing schedules during remote learning: [Remote Learning Round-Up: Schedules & Routines]. https://medium.com/swlh/remote-learning-round-up-schedules-routines-30c08ea0dde2

    Stay healthy, stay safe, and remember to take care of yourself, too.

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    Help! 3 Ways a schedule can help sensory issues and communication barriers? #Autism ChallengesšŸ§©

    Ever felt like a detective trying to crack the case of your child’s meltdown? You may need to try sensory-friendly schedules. Welcome to the world’s quirkiest puzzle, where flickering lights, itchy shirts, and vacuum cleaner roars can trigger an emotional rollercoaster. Sensory sensitivities team up with communication barriers, leaving us feeling like we need a superhero cape. šŸ¦øā€ā™€ļøšŸ•µļøā€ā™‚ļø

    Example of Jacob's schedule
    Here’s and example of things on Jacob’s schedule.

    Sensory-friendly schedulesĀ šŸ“…

    The first superhero of parenting: the schedule! When Jacob’s world feels like it’s spinning out of control, a visual schedule swoops in to save the day. With clear expectations and a roadmap for his day, Jacob finds comfort in the chaos. From school work to chores, the schedule guides him through, offering a sense of security and predictability. And when sensory overload strikes, the schedule becomes a lifeline, helping us navigate the storm before it hits. šŸŒŖļøā°

    Empowering Independence: With a sensory-friendly schedule as their trusty guide, children gain independence and confidence in navigating their world. From choosing sensory-friendly clothes to managing their daily routines, the schedule equips them with the tools they need to thrive despite their challenges.šŸŒŸšŸš§Ā 

    Read more about schedules:Ā How can using schedules can change your childā€™s life?

    Sensory-Friendly Breaks: Keeping CalmĀ  šŸ§©

    Ā Second in our toolkit of sanity savers, sensory breaks reign supreme. Whether it’s fidgets, sensory bins, or noise-canceling headphones, these magical tools turn meltdowns into moments of calm. Jacob’s favorite? His trusty headphones, shielding him from the dreaded vacuum cleaner roar during cleaning sessions. And when it’s playtime, it’s all about hands-on activities like playdoh, legos, and puzzles, offering a welcome escape from the sensory whirlwind. šŸ§©šŸŽ§

    Sensory Sanctuary: A visual sensory-friendly schedule offers a safe harbor amidst sensory storms, providing structure and predictability in a chaotic world. It guides children like Jacob through their day, offering comfort and security when sensory overload strikes.šŸ†˜šŸ•’Ā 

    Need more help with sensory? Read here:Ā Tired and Frustrated Mom! Sensory Challenges for the Autism Spectrum

    Mastering the Clothes Conundrum: A Sensory-Friendly Solution šŸ‘•

    How-using-schedules-can-change-your-life2
    Using schedules for Jacob to understand his days changed our lives!

    Ah, the age-old battle of clothes selection! With Jacob’s clothes schedule in hand, we’ve cracked the code to stress-free dressing. Planning ahead ensures we have soft, sensory-friendly schedule options ready for action. Weekdays are all about functionality, while weekends offer a chance for Jacob to flex his fashion muscles and choose his own adventure. It’s a win-win for everyone! šŸ‘–šŸ‘š

    If you need more help with a clothes schedule go to this post:Ā ā€œHow to create a personalized schedule for children with autismā€

    Breaking Down Communication Barriers: The Schedule’s Secret Weapon šŸ—£ļø

    But wait, there’s more! Third, the visual schedule doesn’t just tame sensory storms; it also breaks down communication barriers. When Jacob feels overwhelmed and a meltdown looms large, words become scarce.Ā https://autismclassroomresources.com/visual-schedules/ But with the schedule as our trusty guide, we bridge the gap between chaos and clarity. With each routine task and scheduled activity, Jacob finds his voice again, transforming meltdowns into moments of connection. šŸ—ļøšŸ’¬

    Communication Catalyst: When emotions run high and words fail, the schedule becomes a lifeline, bridging the gap between chaos and clarity. Routine tasks and scheduled activities empower children to find their voice again, transforming meltdowns into moments of connection, allowing them to have independence.šŸ‘„šŸ—£ļø

    schedule-fun-jacob-is-the-hulk-barnes-and-noble
    Jacob having fun at Barnes and Noble after a week of completed work!

    So, fellow parent detectives, when the sensory storms hit and the meltdowns loom large, remember: humor is your secret weapon. With a dash of laughter and a sprinkle of patience, we’ll navigate the quirkiest puzzles together, one meltdown at a time. #AutismChallengesšŸ§©

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    No Schedule for Jacob to Use This Week? No Peace! Autism Challenges šŸ§©

    The Importance of Managing Autism Routines and Schedules šŸ§©

    We all have off days or weeks, and Iā€™m no different. At the beginning of this journey, I didnā€™t have routines or scheduled activities for Jacob. I just didnā€™t know any better. We have to be able to manage autism routines when our children are not able to manage their day without meltdowns or chaos.

    But now that I do, I understand the importance of always having a schedule and plans for Jacob. With consistent routines, the chaos is gone. šŸŒŸ

    managing autism routines with schedules, day by day roadmap
    Roadmap to success! Use a schedule. Be consistent, celebrate all wins!

    The Power of the Schedule

    managing autism routines with schedules, Jacob's clothes need to be on the schedule
    Pack the sensory friendly clothes, work and headphones!

    šŸ“… We know that schedules help keep down anxiety, aid with emotional regulation, and help Jacob enjoy his day, just to name a few of the huge benefits. So, what happens when Iā€™ve had a yucky day, and now itā€™s time to fill the zipper bags for the weekly work? Or, I didnā€™t put the haircut, manicure, and pedicure on the monthly schedule, and now itā€™s needed, and Iā€™m not in the mood to complete these tasks???

    Managing Unplanned Changes

    šŸ“† Well, normally I can just show him the monthly calendar and add the haircut to the following day, and heā€™s okay with that. But if the nails are too long and bothering him, he will probably pick at them. This can be a big problem because Jacob easily gets ingrown toenails, and he will pick if it’s bothering him. See this previous post:3 ways to help your child on the autism spectrum navigate doctor visits more smoothly

    managing autism routines with schedules, Jakes manicures need to be on the schedule
    Jacob’s big toe became infected due to picking at skin around toenail that was bothering him.

    Managing Autism Routines

    šŸ”§ Now, I just caused a major problem because I didnā€™t have my act together today. Thatā€™s just one example of life falling apart because I just let the schedule go and didnā€™t do my part. Also, if itā€™s not done and Iā€™m grumpy because heā€™s not handling his day well, then I also know itā€™s partly my fault. Now, if I can fix and get us back on track, then, of course, I do.

    šŸ”„ If, however, he spirals into an emotional meltdown and dances on everyone’s last nerve and gets in trouble before I can course correct, then I have to punish him by taking away his ability to buy his Amazon purchase at the end of the week for completing work and having a great week.

    Consistency Is Key

    šŸš« If Iā€™m not consistent in rewarding good behavior and holding back rewards when he hasnā€™t stayed in check, then the whole system breaks down.

    šŸ¤·ā€ā™€ļø Now, if I have to punish by not allowing the Amazon purchase heā€™s supposed to get on Friday, I feel incredibly guilty because I know I could have helped him more by having that schedule and work in place to guide his week.

    šŸ“ Sometimes though, life gets in the way. You start thinking heā€™s so used to the schedule heā€™ll be alright for one day. Maybe you just plain forget because youā€™re tired or sick. Just self-correct as soon as possible and get on track so your child is set up for success. Because you don’t want to carry guilt that you could have possibly prevented the whole scenario!

    Give Yourself Some Grace

    šŸ’– Give yourself some grace. Remember if you don’t have a plan for your child, they will have one for you!

    So, letā€™s keep those schedules in check and ensure our days are filled with structure and peace.

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    Want to know how I redirect Jacob when our weekend is different? Autism Challenges šŸ§©

    autism-weekend-challenges
    #autism-weekend-challenges

    Autism Challenges on Weekends!

    Autism challenges on weekends, transitions! Picture this: Jacob is super excited because his big brother, Nicholas, is coming home for a visit. He’s been chanting “Nicholas home!” with the enthusiasm only a child with autism can muster, multiple times a day for weeks. Now, don’t get me wrong, Nicholas is a grown man, currently neck-deep in a Ph.D. program at NC State. He hasn’t lived at home since 2013. But, in Jacob’s world, none of that matters. His favorite person is coming home, and the excitement is palpable.

    The Weekend Twist: Routine Disarray!

    However, there’s a twist to this tale. While Jacob absolutely adores having his brother home, his well-oiled routine is thrown into a delightful, albeit chaotic, disarray. You see, everyone on the autism trainā€”me, my husband, Nicholas, and even our trusty dogā€”needs to help Jacob navigate this transition into different routines and family activities.

    Movie Quotes: Our Secret Weapon!

    So, how do we manage these autism challenges on weekends? Well, it turns out that movie quotes are our secret weapon. Jacob is a movie buff, and movie quotes are like nuggets of gold to him. Now, I must admit, my husband and Nicholas are way better at this game than I am. Not only do they recite the lines, but they also throw in character voices to make the quotes come alive. Jacob absolutely loves it, and the power of a well-placed movie quote can turn an impending meltdown into fits of laughter.

    Routine vs. Brother Time: Balancing Act!

    Hashtag Family
    #family, #friends

    Jacob is a creature of habit, and he likes things a certain way, every day. Take, for instance, his TV time. He’s used to having free rein over the big TV in the living room when no one else is using it. But when everyone’s home, that TV becomes a battleground. Jacob wants his brother home, but he also wants his routine, and this can lead to some grumpiness and anxiety.

    The Family Team: Redirection and Smiles!
    schedule-fun-jacob-is-the-hulk-barnes-and-noble
    Jacob having fun at Barnes and Noble after a week of completed work!

    That’s when the whole family jumps into action, taking turns to redirect Jacob’s focus and ensure the weekend stays on a positive note. We know that things can quickly go south when you’re dealing with autism challenges. Children on the spectrum often struggle when their routines are disrupted, and when you throw in sensory sensitivities, emotional regulation difficulties, and perhaps a sprinkle of OCD tendencies, you’ve got yourself a perfect storm.Ā How my husband changes Jacobā€™s bad mood with music! #musicandautism.

    The Teamwork Tactic: Smiles and Snacks!

    Our secret sauce is teamwork, no autism challenges on weekends. Together, as a family, we brainstorm fun ways to keep the weekend moving along smoothly. If Jacob needs a break from the hubbub, I’ll usually put him in the car, and off we go on a quick errand to the grocery store or, his personal favorite, Chick-fil-A! These little outings provide him with the sensory input and routine he craves.

    Schedules, Calendars, and Celebrations: Our Winning Trio!

    We also rely on his trusty schedule, a calendar that gently introduces the changes coming his way, and a hefty dose of assistance with transitions and redirection. And, of course, we sprinkle in some celebrationsā€”maybe some cookies to bake to mark the occasion of Nicholas being home for a visit. Here is a previous blog post:Ā How Simple Planning Ahead Can Save the Day When Working with Someone Who Has Autism!

    Jacob’s Weekend Adventure: Laughter and Love!

    So, to all my fellow parents navigating the uncharted waters of autism challenges during weekends, take heart. With a bit of humor, a whole lot of love, and a bag of movie quotes, we’re making our way through, one smile at a time. 3 Top Challenges of having an adult son with autism.#autismchallengesšŸ§©šŸŒˆāœØ

    Join the Conversation!

    Here is another article: https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/autism-spectrum-disorder-communication-problems-children

    Stay tuned for more tales from Autism Island! Got any tricks up your sleeve for managing autism challenges on weekends? Share your stories and tips below! šŸ“¢šŸ’¬

    Still more? download my ebook!Ā https://educatingjacob.myflodesk.com/tfgvkumbkg

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