schedules

  • Blog, schedules

    Autism mom, what happens when being a hands on mom doesn’t stop at 18?

    This is my mom, the woman who taught me how to be a mom.
    The woman who taught me how to be a mom!

    Hands on Mom

    What happens when you’re an autism mom? Well, the adventure doesn’t always end at 18—it’s a lifelong journey! 🌟

    In our family, everyone’s career paths took a detour. Mom pursued a Master’s in special education, Dad became a firefighter after Jacob’s seizure scare, and big brother Nicholas shifted to a more family-centered career path. Talk about a family affair! 🚒📚

    Being a hands on mom is a 24/7 gig, no doubt. But for autism parents, the journey doesn’t always follow the typical script.

    While other people’s children may pursue a  job, or first apartment, our reality can look a bit different. What happens when the 24/7 doesn’t stop at 18? Let’s navigate this unique path together. 🌟

     

    Autism Mom Coach

    C onsistant Action forward A lways Celebrate Wins L earning to Create Schedules M indset
    C.A.L.M.-Frameworks for my coaching.

    Entering a new season, I’m transitioning into the role of an Autism Mom Coach. But what does that mean exactly? Think of a coach as someone who helps you improve and learn more. With 26 years of experience raising a child diagnosed with moderate autism, coupled with my background as a public school teacher, I bringing a wealth of knowledge to the table.🧩

    Jacob of course being my best teacher. The whole family pivoted in careers after his diagnosis because we wanted to help him to be the best he could be. We’ve had many years of struggle but we’ve got most of the kinks worked out now. Every season of life is different and we are still learning.

     

    Educating Jacob

    As the founder of Educating Jacob, my mission is clear: to educate, mentor, and coach moms and parents of children with autism. I aim to guide them toward a life with less frustration and chaos than I experienced as a new mom navigating the complexities of autism. I’m an advocate for children and want to spread Autism Awareness. Click here for my free Guide: https://educatingjacob.myflodesk.com/o01di34gwl

     

    Autism meltdowns in public

    But what does it really mean to be an autism mom? On a day like Mother’s Day, while others are being celebrated and showered with hugs, some autism moms are facing another day of chaos and frustration. Instead of enjoying family gatherings, they may be dealing with meltdowns and tantrums, unable to partake in simple activities like dining out due to the fear of emotional outbursts.💔😔

     

    Autism Mom Stress

    Ah, the life of an autism mom—it’s a rollercoaster ride of emotions. I’m thinking of moms this week because today is Mother’s Day.  We had a family vote and opted for picking up dinner and bringing it home. None of us wanted to deal with crowds and wanted to enjoy each other and relax.

    Stress is no stranger to motherhood, but for autism moms, it can be especially intense. The sleepless nights and constant worry take a toll, requiring an extra dose of kindness and grace. It’s a journey that demands strength and perseverance, one that often goes unrecognized.💔😔

     

    Parent Tag Team

    In this tag team match called Parenthood, my husband David and I have become like tag teammates in the WWE. When one of us is on the brink of losing our cool, the other swoops in to offer support and relief. It’s a dance of understanding and empathy, giving each other the space to regroup and recharge, even if it’s just for a few precious moments alone.

    Discover the power of teamwork and empathy as we navigate the ups and downs of raising a child with autism. 🤝💕

     

    Raising a child with autism
    Smiles_family_fun
    Autism is not easy for the child or the family.

    Raising a child with autism involves similar aspirations as raising any child: happiness, independence, and confidence. Each child, including those with autism like Jacob, may navigate different levels of independence, happiness, and confidence.

    While Jacob may not reach the same level of independence as some other children, he still experiences independence, joy and confidence in his own way. As parents, our aim is to support him in developing life skills that enhance his independence to the best of his ability. Every day presents an opportunity to empower him further on his journey.

    Raising a child with autism involves nurturing happiness, independence, and confidence tailored to their unique abilities. We empower our son Jacob to thrive, embracing his strengths and providing structure and support along the way. 🌈💪

    Creating an Environment for Success

    You need to understand your child and create an environment that sets him up for success. Consider the child’s strengths and weaknesses.Jacob’s  biggest weaknesses are in communication and sensory stimulation. We use very little spoken language to redirect behaviors and communicate his work and schedule.

    We use schedules as a way to communicate with him. He needs structure and routine to have less anxiety and we need to tell him our expectations as his parents and family. So visual schedules have been used  since he was young. 

    Unlock your child’s potential by creating environments tailored to their needs.🎨🗓️

     

    Educator Insights

    As a teacher, I use routines and structure to allow my students to feel safe and learn in my classroom. The main goal is to create a safe space and show children they can learn and become independent. We want them to crave independence and become confident!

    As both an autism mom and educator, I leverage routines and structure to empower students in my classroom. Explore how these strategies create safe, supportive environments where children can thrive and become confident, independent learners. 🏫💡

    Go sign up for a free discovery call with me: https://educatingjacob.com/contact/

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  • Blog, schedules

    How Jacob has success daily without anxiety. #autismchallenges

    Welcome to Educating Jacob, where we embark on a journey filled with success daily without anxiety. Instead, there’s laughter, love, and the occasional bad day—because let’s face it, life with Jacob is anything but ordinary! 🌟

    In a world where chaos reigns supreme, finding moments of peace and success can feel like a distant dream. Grab your coffee, fellow parents and teachers of children with disabilities, for Jacob is here to show us the way.

    Success Daily without Anxiety

     

    From the early days of meltdowns and confusion to his present-day triumphs, Jacob’s story is a testament to resilience, routine, and remarkable progress. Here at Educating Jacob, we delve into the heart of his daily victories, navigating through the ups and downs with humor and grace. Above is a clip from a facebook live I did if you want to see more go here: https://fb.me/e/hGJWEyzFg

    Join us as we explore how Jacob conquers his challenges, finding solace in schedules and routines that bring him calm and understanding. It’s a tale of laughter, tears, and endless possibilities—a journey that reminds us all of the power of structure and support in the face of adversity.

    Success without anxiety daily

    So grab your favorite mug of coffee (or tea, if that’s more your style!), settle in, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of Jacob’s success without anxiety. Together, we’ll laugh, we’ll learn, and we’ll celebrate the beautifully unique journey of parenting and teaching children with disabilities. 🚀

    The Early Days: Chaos and Confusion

    Ah, the early days of Jacob’s journey—a time marked by meltdowns, chaos, and more than a few raised eyebrows from well-meaning bystanders. 😅 It’s a story familiar to many parents of children with autism, filled with uncertainty and a desperate search for answers. Here is post with an example of an early schedule that started us on a journey of calm: Teaching my Son With Autism to Read.

     

    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!

    The Power of Schedules: Unlocking Jacob’s Potential

    You see, when Jacob was younger, the mere mention of autism sent our world into a tailspin. The meltdowns were relentless, triggered by the overwhelming confusion of a world he struggled to comprehend. Conversations became a minefield, with Jacob either tuning out, walking away, or erupting into tears.

    But amidst the chaos, a glimmer of hope emerged—a beacon of light in the darkness of uncertainty. It was the realization that schedules held the key to unlocking Jacob’s potential for success. 🗝️ Check out this post for more info: No Schedule for Jacob to Use This Week? No Peace! Autism Challenges 🧩

    Celebrating Every Victory

    Celebrate all accomplishments of your special needs child, no matter how small!
    Celebrate all Accomplishments!

     

    And so, we learned to cherish every small triumph along the way, recognizing the hard work and determination that went into each milestone. From mastering a new skill to simply getting through the day without a meltdown, every achievement was a cause for celebration. Need more support and live in NC check out the Autism Society of NC. https://www.spectrumlife.org/raleigh/community-and-support/autism-society-of-north-carolina

    Teacher-Friendly Tips: Simplifying the Classroom Environment

    Now, teachers, listen up!  If there’s one thing I’ve learned on this wild ride called parenting a child with autism, it’s this: structure and routine are your best friends. In the classroom too. Trust me, when your students understand what’s expected of them and can rely on the comforting sameness of a well-established routine, magic happens. 🎩✨

    Think about it like this: imagine trying to follow a complicated set of directions in a language you barely understand. Sounds pretty stressful, right? Well, that’s exactly how it feels for students with autism when faced with a barrage of verbal instructions and constantly changing expectations.

    Simple Visuals

    But fear not, dear teachers, for I come bearing the gift of simplicity! 🎁 By learning to streamline your communication and incorporating simple visuals into your schedules, you can create an environment where every student can have success daily without anxiety. Trust me, it’s a game-changer.

    So, next time you’re tempted to unleash a torrent of words upon your students, take a step back and ask yourself: “How can I simplify this?” Whether it’s breaking tasks down into manageable steps or using visual aids to reinforce concepts, remember: less is more.

    Celebrate Successes no matter how small

    And above all else, remember to set everyone up for success. By creating a classroom that values structure, and routine  you’ll not only reduce anxiety but also empower your students to thrive. After all, isn’t that what teaching is all about? 📚🌟

    So here’s to embracing the power of schedules, simplifying our approach, and setting our students on the path to success—one structured day at a time. You’ve got this, teachers!🍎

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  • Blog, schedules

    3 Top Challenges of having an adult child with autism.#autismchallenges🧩

    3-Top-Challenges-of-Having-an-Adult-Child-with-Autism
    #autismchallenges

    In this blog post, I’m diving into the  3 top challenges I’ve faced with Jacob since him becoming an adult. To my fellow parents, I know you feel my pain! 🌟 Ever feel like you’re juggling flaming swords while riding a unicycle? 🤹‍♂️ Welcome to the wild world of parenting an adult child with autism! So grab your coffee, take a seat, and let’s navigate this adventure together! 💙 #autismchallenges🧩

     

    Challenge #1: Keeping Reliable Care for Jacob While We Work

     

    Top 3 Challenges blog
    Challenge #1: Keeping Reliable Care for Jacob While We Work!

     

    Ah, the eternal quest for trustworthy care for our beloved Jacob! 🌟 It’s like searching for a unicorn in a marvel movie, am I right? But fear not, fellow adventurers, for we are armed with perseverance and strength! 🦄

     

    Entrusting Jacob’s care to others feels like sending him off on a grand quest without a map or a guidebook. 🗺️ It’s nerve-wracking, to say the least! But hey, we’re not alone in this journey. We’ve enlisted the help of a company that hires background-checked individuals. Yet, even with this safety net, the anxiety lingers like an unwelcome guest at a party. Try well-known agencies like the Autism Society, https://www.autismsociety-nc.org/#

     

    And let’s talk about the perpetual juggling act of work and caregiving. 🤹‍♂️ It’s like trying to tame a lion while balancing on a tightrope! But fret not, my friends, for there’s a legal safeguard in the form of FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act). Just to make sure you are not fired because you have to care for your child. It’s like our superhero cape, offering protection against the evil clutches of employment uncertainty. 💼✨

     

    Check out the government website here: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fmla

     

    Alright Autism adventurers, take heart! While the road may be rocky, and the challenges daunting, we shall overcome with resilience, determination, and maybe a dash of caffeine! ☕️ Onward, to victory! 🚀 #AutismAwareness 🧩

    Challenge #2: Navigating the Absence Abyss

    What happens when your workers are out sick?

     

    Ah, the dreaded sick days saga!  It’s like a whirlwind of chaos that sweeps through our carefully crafted plans, isn’t it? But fear not, for in the face of adversity, we emerge as champions of resilience and adaptability!🤒

     

    When your child’s caregiver calls in sick, and suddenly, you’re thrust into a frantic scramble to find a replacement. It’s like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded! But alas, finding someone who can step into your child’s world at a moment’s notice is like searching for a needle in a haystack. 🧩

     

    In the blink of an eye, FMLA becomes our lifeline, our legal shield against the unpredictability of caregiving. It’s like summoning reinforcements to fortify our defenses in the battle against chaos! 💼

     

    Amidst the challenges, the Autism Society stands as a beacon of hope, striving to bridge the gap between need and accessibility. They have introduced Jacob to other workers so that in a moment of need, someone can step in and help. This works only if there’s enough notice. Let’s not forget the logistical nightmare of living outside city limits.  It’s like being stranded on a desert island with limited resources,#AutismIsland!🚗

     

    So, fellow warriors, take a deep breath and summon your inner zen. 🌟 Though the road may be rocky, and the challenges aplenty, we shall prevail with perseverance, humor, and maybe a splash of “Calgon 🛁 take me away” for good measure!  #AutismAwareness 🧩

    Challenge #3: Crafting the Perfect Environment for Success

     

    Challenge#3
    Small zippered bags have school work and clothes in garment bags!

     

    Ah, the noble quest for the holy grail of productivity and success!  It’s like embarking on a grand adventure through the labyrinth of chaos, armed with nothing but schedules and calendars as our trusty companions.🏆

     

    Amidst the whirlwind of life, we forged a sanctuary of learning and tranquility for Jacob.  With schedules as our guiding stars, chaos retreated like a defeated dragon, and productivity flourished like wildflowers in spring.🌟

     

    A Collaborative Journey to Success

     

    But here’s the twist: success wasn’t just for Jacob alone; it was a team effort!  We shared our secrets of structure and success with the brave souls entrusted with Jacob’s care, transforming them into allies in our noble quest.💪

     

    And oh, the sweet relief when chaos was banished from our absence!  With a rock-solid foundation of understanding and structure, Jacob’s days unfolded like a well-rehearsed symphony, each note harmonizing with the next in a blissful melody of productivity.🌪️

     

    But let’s not forget the cardinal rule of parenting: consistency is key! Check out this previous  blog post: Help! 3 Ways a schedule can help sensory issues and communication barriers? #Autism Challenges🧩 Like master craftsmen, we meticulously crafted a framework of structure and procedures, ensuring that every interaction and every moment was a stepping stone on the path to success. 🔑

     

    So, dear comrades in arms, do not fear the daunting task before you! 🛡️ With a dash of consistency, a sprinkle of structure, and a hearty dose of determination, you too can forge an environment where success blooms like a garden in the sun. 🌷 #ParentingSuccess 🌈

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  • Blog, schedules

    Unlocking the Easter Joy: A Guide to Teaching Children with Autism about Easter

    Get ready to hop into Easter joy with our guide for children with autism! 🐰🌷 We’ll explore strategies and activities, using schedules to navigate sensory challenges and learn about Resurrection Day. Let’s make this Easter unforgettable! 🥚

    Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

    Before we hop into Easter fun, let’s understand Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). 🧠 ASD affects social interaction, communication, and behavior, often accompanied by sensory sensitivities and routine challenges. But fear not! 🛡️ Understanding Jacob’s needs is key to crafting a stress-free, engaging Easter for everyone. Let’s dive in! 🌟

    Navigating Easter Challenges for Children with Autism

    Easter brings joy, but also unique challenges for kids with autism. 🐣 Crowded events, loud noises, and social interactions can trigger anxiety and meltdowns. Plus, abstract concepts like the resurrection may be hard to grasp.

     

    A Guide to Teaching Children with Autism about Easter

     

    The-Easter-Story-for-Children, book for children
    I like Max Lucado, this is the book I bought.

    I’ve got you! 🛡️ With creative tools like videos and interactive books, like Max Lucado’s “The Easter Story for Children,” we can make learning fun and accessible for Jacob and kids like him. 📚 And let’s not forget our trusty lent calendar wreath from The Keeping Company, making Jesus’ journey to resurrection day a memorable family tradition! 🌟

    This is the visual I use for Jacob for lent.
    I use the cradle to cross wreath from “The Keeping Company”.

    The Significance of Easter Education for Kids with Autism

    Unlocking the mysteries of Easter isn’t just about bunnies and eggs—it’s a vital step in our children’s development journey! 🌟 Teaching kids with autism about Easter isn’t just about the holiday; it’s about nurturing their social skills, communication, and sensory integration. Plus, it’s a golden opportunity for them to join in family and community traditions, fostering a sense of belonging and connection. 🐣 So let’s dive into Easter education with gusto, empowering our kids to embrace the joy and meaning of this special holiday! 📚🎉

    Preparing Your Little Easter Bunnies for Festivities

    As Easter hops closer, let’s equip our kiddos with autism for the egg-citing adventures ahead! 🥚✨ One golden strategy? Whip up a visual schedule! 📅 These colorful roadmaps lay out the day’s events, giving our little ones a clear path to navigate the Easter maze. 🐇🗺️ And hey, why not sprinkle in some social stories for an extra dose of Easter Joy enlightenment? 📚 These bite-sized tales break down the holiday’s complex concepts into nuggets of knowledge, ensuring our kiddos are egg-stra prepared for the fun ahead! 📖🎉

    Egg-cellent Tips for a Sensory-Friendly Easter Egg Hunt

    Plan ahead to make the holidays chaos free and sensory friendly!
    “If you don’t know where you’re going, you’ll end up someplace else.”
    ― Yogi Berra

    Ah, the classic Easter egg hunt – a staple of the holiday season! 🥚🐰 But for our kiddos with autism, the usual hustle and bustle can be overwhelming. Fear not, fellow bunny wranglers!  Here are some cracking tips to transform your egg hunt into a sensory-friendly extravaganza:🐇

    Location, location, location! Opt for a quiet, less crowded spot like your backyard or a serene park during off-peak hours. It’s like finding a hidden oasis in a sea of chaos!🌟

    Visual cues are the name of the game!🏳️‍🌈  Deck out those hiding spots with colorful flags or markers to guide our little egg explorers. 🎨🚩

    Who needs a map when you’ve got a treasure hunt?🗝️ Get creative and offer alternative ways to track down those elusive eggs – think treasure maps or clues tailored to your kiddo’s interests. 🗺️

    Cater to those sensory preferences! Whether it’s eggs with different textures, ones that make funky noises, or those filled with candy. 🎶 🌈

    Seeing is Believing: Using Visual Supports and Social Stories for Easter

    Easter isn’t all about bunnies, baskets, and a boatload of traditions! 🐇🧺 But for our kiddos with autism, navigating the holiday hoopla can be like trying to crack a secret code. Fear not, fellow Easter enthusiasts! 🌟 Let’s harness the power of visuals and stories to make Easter egg-ceptional for everyone!

    📅 Visual Supports: These are our holiday GPS, guiding us through the Easter maze with ease! From visual schedules outlining the day’s activities to handy cues reminding us to hop, skip, and jump during religious services – visuals are the unsung heroes of our Easter adventure! 🥚🗺️

    📖 Social Stories: Ah, the tales of Easter past, present, and future! 📚 These nifty narratives break down the holiday hustle and bustle into bite-sized nuggets of knowledge. From the meaning behind Easter to the ins and outs of egg hunts and bunny visits, social stories are our secret weapon for decoding Easter mysteries! 🔍💡

    With visuals in hand and stories in our hearts, we’re ready to embark on an Easter escapade like never before! So, gather ’round, my Easter bunnies, and let’s make this holiday one for the books! Not sure? Check out a previous post: Help! 3 Ways a schedule can help sensory issues and communication barriers? #Autism Challenges🧩📚🌷

    Egg-cellent Easter Crafts & Sensory Adventures

    Easter isn’t just about bunnies and baskets – it’s a chance to dive into egg-citing sensory experiences! 🥚✨ Let’s crack open the creativity and explore some egg-ceptional activities tailored for our kiddos with autism.

    1. Sensory-Friendly Egg Decorating: Skip the mess and opt for mess-free egg decorating! 🎨🚫 Swap out dyes for stickers, markers, or colored tape to jazz up those eggs. Plastic or foam eggs are great alternatives for texture-sensitive kiddos!

    2. Egg Shaker Music: Get ready to shake, rattle, and roll with DIY egg shakers! 🎶 Fill plastic eggs with rice, beans, or tiny treasures, and let the music-making begin! It’s a groovy way to boost fine motor skills and sensory processing.

    3. Easter Sensory Bins: Dive into an Easter-themed sensory adventure!✨ Fill a bin with colored rice, plastic eggs, bunny figurines, and feathers. Let your child’s imagination run wild as they explore different textures and colors. 🌈

    These egg-ceptional activities are just the beginning of the Easter fun! Get cracking and create sensory-rich experiences that will delight and engage your child with autism. 🌈✨

    Wishing you a happy and inclusive Easter, Resurrection Day celebration!

     

    Wishing you a Happy Easter!
    From our family to yours, Happy Easter, Resurrection Day!

    Unlocking the Easter joy for children with autism requires thoughtful planning and adaptations to ensure their comfort and engagement in the festivities. By embracing inclusive Easter traditions, engaging in sensory-friendly activities, and utilizing visual supports, you can create an Easter experience that is enjoyable and meaningful for your child with autism.

    Remember, every child with autism is unique, so feel free to customize these strategies to best suit your child’s needs. With love, patience, and understanding, you can make Easter a time of joy and growth for your entire family. 🐣💫

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