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    3 Ways Jacob’s Monthly Calendar and Daily Schedule Work on Autism Island!

    Jacob’s Monthly Calendar: Autism Island Daily Schedule

    Jacob’s monthly calendar is like a crystal ball, but instead of predicting the future, it prepares him for it. On Autism Island the daily schedule is essential! This calendar isn’t your ordinary one; it’s a lifeline for Jacob, especially when it comes to navigating the twists and turns of daily life on Autism Island.

    The Holiday Countdown:

    Most people use their calendars to mark birthdays and holidays, but for Jacob, it’s a countdown. He eagerly anticipates those special days, and his calendar helps him keep track. When he sees a circled date approaching, he knows it’s time for something exciting.

    Beyond the Week:

    Unlike his weekly schedule, which is all about the here and now, the monthly calendar zooms out. It gives Jacob a glimpse of upcoming events that aren’t part of his daily schedule or weekly routine. Take, for example, doctor’s appointments. With a quick glance, he can see when they’re scheduled, allowing him to prepare for any changes to his regular routine.

    Personal Maintenance:

    doctor's office Jacob's ingrown toenail
    Jacob’s big toe became infected due to picking at skin around toenail that was bothering him.

    We all have those tasks that pop up irregularly but can’t be ignored. For Jacob, it’s the dreaded manicure and pedicure sessions. While it may seem trivial, these appointments are essential. For him, overgrown nails trigger sensory sensitivities, leading to nail and skin picking, which can ultimately result in ingrown toenails. Yikes! So, his calendar reminds us to keep those nails in check.

    I don’t need to put my manicure and pedicure on a calendar because I just take care of it when I feel like taking care of it. But for Jacob, if he starts picking at a nail because it is all of a sudden annoying him we have a big problem. That’s where having a schedule that puts item of regular maintenance down.

    Check out this, our dream residential/day program geared to autism: https://islandautism.org/about-us/island-autism-center /

    Pills and Prevention:

    Managing epilepsy is no small feat. Jacob has a medication regimen that’s crucial for seizure control. His trusty pillbox helps, but it’s his calendar that ensures we never run out of meds. It serves as a reminder to order and refill prescriptions promptly, sparing us any seizure-related adventures. It also reminds me to fill his weekly pill box so it’s ready and accessible to Jacob.

    Jacob’s Weekly Schedule: The Comfort of Routine

    Now, let’s dive into Jacob’s weekly schedule. To many, it might seem monotonous, but for Jacob, it’s a source of comfort and happiness.

    Groundhog Days:
    For Jacob, the consistency of his daily routine brings him a sense of calm.
    For Jacob, the consistency of his daily routine brings him a sense of calm.

    Imagine waking up to a world that’s slightly different every day. Sounds exhausting, right? For Jacob, the consistency of his daily routine brings him a sense of calm. His days follow a structured pattern, from breakfast to meds, schoolwork to chores, and everything in between. Autism mom support, what happens when being a hands on doesn’t stop at 18?

    Mom’s Decision Fatigue:

    As a mom, teacher, and wife, I wear many hats. My daily life can be a juggling act. Jacob’s schedule isn’t just his lifeline; it’s mine too. The more organized I am, the smoother things run for the whole family.

    Autism Island daily schedule, we have so much to keep track of that a schedule is needed to calm the chaos!
    All the different hats we wear!

    So, while Jacob’s calendar and weekly schedule might seem unusual to some, they are the glue that holds our lives together here on Autism Island. They provide predictability, reduce anxiety, and ensure we’re prepared for whatever adventures come our way. Educating Jacob: The Power of Communication in Autism Spectrum Disorder

    Jacob’s monthly and daily schedules work for him:

    1.  Long-Range Planning: Jacob’s monthly calendar helps him anticipate and prepare for longer-term changes and events, such as holidays, birthdays, and doctor’s appointments. It provides him with a visual overview of upcoming activities and transitions, reducing anxiety associated with unexpected changes.

    2. Routine and Predictability: Jacob’s weekly schedule maintains a consistent daily routine, including tasks like breakfast, schoolwork, chores, and free time. This routine brings him comfort and stability, reducing stress and anxiety. It also helps his family manage their busy lives effectively.

    3. Support for Medication and Health Needs: The calendars serve as reminders for essential tasks like medication management. They ensure that Jacob’s epilepsy medication is refilled on time, preventing the risk of seizures. Additionally, the schedule helps Jacob with sensory sensitivities, ensuring his nail care, which can be challenging due to his condition, is not overlooked.

    Whether you’re navigating Autism Island or just looking for ways to bring more structure into your family’s life, take a page from Jacob’s book. Embrace the power of planning, and you might find that a well-structured calendar and routine can be your best allies. Tag us on Facebook or Instagram using #AutismParenting, #SpecialNeedsSuccess, or #MonthlyCalendarMagic

    Want more? Download my ebook and follow us on Social Media! https://educatingjacob.myflodesk.com/tfgvkumbkg

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  • Blog, schedules

    Teaching my son with autism to read was a huge accomplishment!

    Jacob completing a writing assignment on his chalkboard wall in his room.
    Jacob doing a writing assignment!

    A Surprising Start to Our Autism Journey

    When autism hit our family, it hit like a ton of bewildering bricks. Teaching my son to read, speak or just about anything was a challenge. We were as clueless as clueless could be, armed with nothing more than our viewing of “Rain Man” as our crash course in autism. No mentors, no guidebooks, just us, trying to make sense of it all. Our teaching that worked with our first son did not work. Teaching Nicholas to do almost anything including reading was a breeze! https://www.beginlearning.com/parent-resources/how-to-teach-a-child-to-read/

    Teaching My Son to Read

    But, hey, we did have a friend who homeschooled her own kids. And that, my friends, was our ticket to the wild world of homeschooling. Jacob had done a stint in public school for preschool and kindergarten. As those crucial early years came to a close, we decided to take the plunge and bring him home for homeschooling. I researched and bought materials for schooling my children and got started.

    Diving into the Deep End of Homeschooling

    So, there I was, diving headfirst into this ocean of uncertainty. I read books, surfed websites, and clung to my homeschooling guru friend like a lifebuoy. I ordered curriculum for two kids because my older son, Nicholas, wanted in on the action. He became the extracurricular activities and book picker, and off we went, wading into uncharted waters.

    Officially Homeschooling

    We registered ourselves with the state as a homeschool, gave ourselves a name (because why not?), and I became the official administrator. Nicholas was a breeze to teach, but Jacob, oh Jacob, with his autism quirks and speech challenges, was a different story.

    Creative Homeschooling Tactics

    Jacobs-activities-lined-the-couch-with-an-all-done-bin-on-the-floor
    Jacob’s activities lined the couch with an all done bin on the floor, very easy for him to understand!

    Our homeschooling sessions involved singing the ABCs during bath time (foam letters included!), bouncing on a rebounder while tackling flashcards, and counting and word games on the outdoor swing. Movement was Jacob’s magic ingredient for speech, so we embraced it wholeheartedly. It also made learning a lot more fun. This link shows how comprehension is challenging for our children with autism.  https://www.readingrockets.org/topics/autism-spectrum-disorder/articles/reading-comprehension-and-autism-primary-general-education

    The Calm in the Storm

    Nicholas, bless his heart, was the calm amidst our storm. Some days, Jacob and I would wrap up our lessons in tears. It usually ended with Jacob going to his room, me heading to mine, and Nicholas taking charge of soothing his brother. He’d build intricate train tracks and cue up a Thomas the Tank Engine movie. And then, he’d come to me with an offer of popcorn and Dr. Pepper because he knew they were my favorites. Smart kid!

    Not a Teacher Yet

    I wasn’t a teacher when we started this adventure; I decided to become a Special Education teacher later, thinking I needed the qualification to help my son. In reality, I didn’t. Jacob and I tackled the hard part before I ever got that degree. We taught each other.

    The Proud Moment

    I was just a mom, desperate and determined not to give up. I knew Jacob better than anyone, and I used that knowledge to our advantage. We turned every opportunity into a learning moment and incorporated everything he loved.

    Jacob reading, also part of his daily schedule.
    Jacob couldn’t read yet, but it was still part of his daily schedule!

    Teaching Triumph

    Teaching Jacob to read is a greater source of pride for me than my Master’s degree in Special Education. I taught him to read and write before I even had that degree. The Jacob School of Life taught me more than any classroom could.

    Challenges and Rewards

    Teaching any child to read is no walk in the park, and when you add disabilities to the mix, it’s a real uphill climb. You’ve got to connect with your student on a profound level, using every trick in the book to make it easier for them. Find ways to incorporate what they already love into the learning process.

    Celebrating Small Wins

    Jacob loved movies, trains, and video games (like father, like son). He adored movement and water, so we used all these things every single day until that light bulb moment finally happened. We celebrated every tiny milestone like it was the Super Bowl, and let me tell you, the victory dances were legendary.

    Don’t Give Up

    On the tough days, the ones that ended with me retreating to my room, tears streaming, feeling utterly unworthy, I didn’t give up. I’m here to tell you, you’re worthy, and your child needs you. Don’t throw in the towel; don’t give in. Celebrate every single accomplishment, no matter how minuscule. Because when you look back, you’ll see just how far you’ve come, and it’ll be a sight to behold.

    Tired and frustrated shows up for all moms
    Tired and frustrated? Try something new, create a schedule“How to create a personalized schedule for children with autism”!

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  • Blog, schedules

    How I made it through the holidays without chaos and anxiety on autism island.

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    Surviving the Holidays on Autism Island will require a plan my friend. The holidays, a time of joy, laughter, and… chaos? If you’re a parent navigating the festive season with a child on the autism spectrum, you probably know that the holiday script often comes with some unexpected twists. But fear not, fellow parents! I’m here to share my hilarious escapades and top tips on how I made it through the holidays without succumbing to chaos and anxiety on what I lovingly call ‘Autism Island.’ Who knew there was a real place, other than the homes of families who have a child with autism! Check this place out 👉 https://islandautism.org/about-us/island-autism-center/

    Surviving the Holidays on Autism Island

    Travel during the holidays can be a nightmare for anyone, let alone when you have a child with autism. But this year, I decided to take the road less traveled, literally. We stayed home. No packing, no planning, and definitely no airport meltdowns. It was a laid-back Thanksgiving and Christmas, and boy, did it take a load off everyone’s plate (pun intended). Jacob, my autism superhero, still followed his trusty schedule, but everything was decked out in holiday glory, making it extra fun.

    Now, if you do need to venture beyond Autism Island, a visual schedule is your golden ticket. It’s like a roadmap for your child, helping them understand what’s coming up ahead of time. Remember, familiarity reduces anxiety, and that’s the secret sauce for a meltdown-free journey. And don’t forget to pack a travel kit with all of your child’s favorite things, from activities to a bit of schoolwork. Hey, it’s a comfort thing, and it’s on the schedule, so it’s all good.

    Where Routine Meets Relatives on Autism Island

    Staying home for the holidays? Fantastic, right? Well, not according to Jacob. The moment I was off work for two weeks due to school break, he decided he wanted me back at work during week one! I mean, I do a lot for Jacob, but family being home when they’re supposed to be at work? That’s a plot twist he wasn’t prepared for. So, cue the calendar again to gently warn him of these schedule shake-ups.

    Surprisingly, he never tries to send his brother off to work or back home. Clearly we need strategy and planning to guide “Surviving the Holidays on Autism Island”. I guess his brother doesn’t mess with the schedule like I do! (Or maybe he’s just way cooler; who knows?)

    Surviving the Holidays on Autism Island. Jake's brother Nick never gets sent back to work
    The ‘cool’ brother! He is always asking for his brother to come home.

    Making the Holiday Fun: When You’re Running on Holiday Fumes

    Foot pain, Morton's neuroma
    Electrical Stimulation to relieve pain and swelling!

    Let’s talk about making the holiday fun on Autism Island. I confess; I could’ve done better this year. With a bum foot and exhaustion levels that could rival a hibernating bear, my enthusiasm didn’t quite match Jacob’s holiday energy. But fear not, all the traditional holiday activities were in play. Jacob had his favorite holiday movies, cookies, and more, so we were good to go.

    Jacob gets a say in decorating and picking out holiday treats because having choices makes the holiday experience more enjoyable for him. Involving him in these decisions also helps him feel in control and engaged with the family.

    Sensory Sensibility: Navigating the Tides of Sensory Overload

    A-little-planning-goes-a-long-way
    Pack the sensory friendly clothes, work and headphones!

    Sensory overload? It’s the iceberg to our holiday Titanic. Always think of sensory issues and plan ahead. Comfortable clothes, noise-canceling headphones for those anticipated loud visitors—anything to keep sensory overload at bay is a winner.

    I’ve learned not to force Jacob into activities if he’s showing signs of anxiety. Instead, I steer him toward something more comfortable, letting him rejoin when he’s ready. Pushing him to stay at the Christmas tree opening presents isn’t a good idea if it leads to a meltdown. He can take a break and return when he’s calm.

    Every holiday doesn’t have to be a mirror image of the last. We’ve learned to set boundaries, keep things fun, and be open to schedule changes and regrouping.

    So, here’s to surviving the holidays on Autism Island with humor, love, and a pinch of flexibility. It might not always go according to plan, but when has that ever stopped us? Cheers to holiday adventures, Autism Island-style! 🎄😄

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  • Blog, schedules

    How Simple Planning Ahead Can Save the Day When Working with Someone Who Has Autism!

    Simple planning ahead can save the day with Autism
    Lets Plan Ahead when using schedules for Autism!

    As a mom and teacher of children with special needs, one thing I’ve learned is this: Simple planning ahead can save the day with Autism. When it comes to individuals with autism, you need to have a plan, or they will surely have a plan for you. Simple planning ahead can save the day with Autism. And trust me, it’s probably not the kind of plan you’ll enjoy. Picture this: chaos, whining, and possibly even meltdowns – not exactly the recipe for a smooth day. 😬

    Raising and teaching my son, Jacob, has been a journey filled with surprises. It’s shown me that while anything is possible, introducing something new can often be met with resistance, especially when autism or special needs are involved. The key is preparation. You’ve got to prepare for anything new because transitions and unknowns can be particularly challenging for individuals on the autism spectrum. 🧩 🌟

    Whether it’s a new meal 🍽️, a different outfit 👕, schoolwork 📚, or a doctor’s visit 🏥, if there’s anything new on the horizon, I’ve got a simple plan. It’s a strategy that helps reduce anxiety and make the unfamiliar seem a little less daunting.

    Planning ahead use a Visual Schedule

    Step 1:

    First, I scout for a YouTube video on the topic. Can’t find one? Well, sometimes, you’ve got to put on your creative hat and make one yourself. Visual resources can be a game-changer. They provide a clear, visual explanation of what to expect, which can significantly reduce anxiety. 🎥

    Create a Simple Schedule 🗓️

    Step 2:

    Simple planning ahead can save the day with Autism
    3 New Habits for 2024, that I want as a daily task that I do automatically.

    Next, I create a simple schedule. This schedule outlines the task or activity, step by step, in a clear and understandable way. It’s like having a roadmap for the day’s journey. 🛤️

    Step 3:

    Plan ahead with Autism and Model the New Activity or Routine 🚶

    Now, here’s where the magic happens. I model the new activity or routine a day or several days before we actually want to introduce it. Modeling helps familiarize Jacob with what to expect and how to go about it. It’s like a dress rehearsal for the main event. 💃

    Keep it Simple:

    The key here is not to rush the process. Think of it as setting the stage for success. Going in without a plan or hurrying through it is a surefire way to invite chaos, whining, or meltdowns – things we’d all rather avoid. 😅

    Recently, Jacob and I embarked on a New Year’s challenge. We each decided to add three tasks to our daily routine. But here’s the trick: we wanted these new habits to be easy to implement. So, we each created simple lists that can be checked off or visual schedules that allow us to mark tasks as done quickly and easily. ✅

    Want to join our challenge? Read about it here and then tag us on FB or Instagram! Our New Years Challenge, the schedule we will use for our new habits!

    Make it Fun:

    Simple planning ahead can save the day with Autism, even with exercise
    Have a simple plan and makde it fun!

    To make things even more fun, I designed my visual schedule to match Jacob’s. Since we’re using the same format, I can model what I want him to do. Jacob is no stranger to this type of schedule – we’re bringing in something that works. Plus, having the same type of schedule adds a playful twist to our daily routine. 🤪

    So, whether you’re introducing something new to your child or even tackling your own challenges (hello, New Year’s resolutions 🎉), remember this: simple planning ahead can save the day and be your secret weapon. https://www.autismspeaks.org/life-skills-and-autism Visual resources and schedules are your allies, and modeling is your key to success. Don’t rush the process, and soon, you’ll find that even the most daunting tasks can become part of your everyday routine. Cheers to a smoother, less chaotic day! 🥂

    Want more? Sign up for the ebook 👉 https://educatingjacob.myflodesk.com/tfgvkumbkg

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