Before Jacob’s autism diagnosis, doctors reassured us with comments like, “He’s meeting his other developmental milestones” and “Boys talk later than girls sometimes.” Jacob was 2 years old and still had no language. After a mom fit in the doctor’s office, they finally put in a referral for speech therapy. It took almost 6 months to get into the speech therapist covered by our insurance. After the first visit, she told me to get him tested and into preschool.
1 Corinthians 3:11 “For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ”
Autism Diagnosis: The Fear 😔
Researching and going to approved therapies for autism!
My confidence as a mom plummeted, and the fear was real. My first son was perfect, with all the typical milestones. It took another 4-6 months to get Jacob tested for autism through the schools and Teacch, who were wonderful and conducted thorough evaluations over several days. The meltdowns at the testing sites stripped the rest of my confidence. I felt like I was being judged by everyone when they happened. I felt clueless.
Navigating the Early Stages 🍼
Meanwhile, I learned from watching the speech therapist. Jacob was not comfortable with anyone outside the family. No therapies or testing went well. Jacob was obviously upset to be somewhere other than home. He was a fussy eater, didn’t sleep well at night, frequently had ear infections, then tubes in his ears, and frequent bowel issues. Initially, we blamed the ear infections and eventually had his hearing checked.
Our home was full of worry by this time. We knew something wasn’t right but didn’t know what or how long it would take to get a handle on it. Jacob now had full-on meltdowns as we tried to get speech therapy and more engagement with him.
The Diagnosis and Initial Steps 🏫
Jacob was very independent, probably because he didn’t have language to ask us for things. When Jacob started preschool, he did not engage with the other kids and only with the adults when he needed something. The official diagnosis came in, and Jacob was placed into a self-contained autism room. It was necessary because he had no success in the other room, and the teacher had no clue what to do with him. In the autism self-contained room, the teacher started him on a visual schedule from day one. But, there was only a limited time each child could have, and Jacob was really behind, so we started considering homeschooling.
The Power of Visual Schedules 📅
Jacob’s earlier schedules could not contain more than 1 item per line.
From that point on, we used visual schedules at home. I started going to the Teacch office, and they helped me build activities that Jacob could understand without needing language. Now, I can build schedules with work (activities) he needs to do to be a member of the family. He discovered he could learn, do work like the rest of the family, and have activities before movies, trains, toys, etc. Can a schedule help hyperactivity in toddlers? #Autism Challenges🧩
Finding Our Rhythm 🎬
It took years to figure things out, and Jacob is still not talking, but we started using movie quotes from movies he liked to see him light up. We were speaking his language. We also started using sign language, which really helped Jacob. Using his hands and the visual of watching someone complete a sign allowed Jacob’s brain to locate the word he wanted to say. He learned basic signs that we used while watching a show called Signing Time. 3 ways American Sign Language helped my son with autism speak in short sentences?
Gaining Control and Peace 🧘♂️
We have more confidence as parents and peace in the home now. Jacob has a schedule, he can communicate some of his wants and needs, he’s doing schoolwork and chores, and we also started homeschooling him and his brother.
His brother, Nicholas, is now in graduate school and Jacob is grown and living at home with us today. He still does schoolwork, chores and shopping with us and he is able to do so with less anxiety using schedules. His day is chaotic and anxious without schedules. We are all much happier now.
A Message to Other Autism Parents 💪
To all the parents out there feeling the weight of an autism diagnosis and the chaos that follows, know that you are not alone. It’s a journey filled with ups and downs, but with patience, love, and the right strategies, you can create a structured and peaceful environment for your child. Remember, it’s okay to have off days. Just keep moving forward, one step at a time. You’ve got this! 💖
Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Want more information? Sign up for my ebook: https://educatingjacob.myflodesk.com/tfgvkumbkg Let’s support each other on this journey! 📢💬
In the world of autism, hyperactivity in toddlers poses unique challenges that require a deeper understanding. Hyperactivity is a common behavior observed in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and can significantly impact their daily lives. From incessant fidgeting to perpetual restlessness, these children are constantly on the move, making it difficult for them to focus and engage in tasks.
Can a schedule really rein in the whirlwind of hyper-activity in autism? You betcha! Meet Jacob and my students, craving the comforting embrace of predictability. With schedules, they steer their ships through anxiety’s stormy seas, mastering tasks like true captains. 🚢
Managing hyperactivity in autistic toddlers
Effectively managing hyperactivity in autistic toddlers requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the underlying factors contributing to this behavior. The following strategies can be implemented to support these children and their families:
Structured routines and schedules: Establishing a predictable and consistent daily routine. This may include incorporating visual schedules, transition cues, and clear expectations for activities and transitions.
Sensory integration techniques: deep pressure can help autistic toddlers with hyperactivity self-regulate and manage their sensory needs.
Environmental modifications: Adapting the physical environment can significantly impact the behavior of autistic toddlers with hyperactivity. This may include minimizing distractions, providing a designated quiet space for calming activities, and ensuring the availability of appropriate fidget toys or sensory tools.
Positive reinforcement and behavior management: Implement a positive reinforcement system. Consistent behavior management strategies, such as clear rules and consequences, can also be beneficial.
Physical activity and exercise: Incorporating regular physical activity and exercise into the daily routine can help channel the toddler’s energy in a constructive manner. This may include activities like swimming, trampoline jumping, or structured play in a sensory-friendly environment.
Caregiver support and education: Providing caregivers with education and training on managing hyperactivity in autism can empower them to implement effective strategies at home.
Sometimes, a little physical activity can work wonders in calming down hyper-active toddlers with autism. Not only does it help expend their excess energy, but it also aids in nervous system regulation.🤸♂️
– Jumping Jacks: A classic exercise that gets the heart pumping and the body moving. Encourage your child to join in the fun and jump along with them. It’s a great way to release pent-up energy and promote a sense of calm.
– Figure 8 Movement: Have your child trace the shape of a figure 8 in the air with their hands or feet. This simple yet effective exercise helps integrate both sides of the brain, promoting better coordination and focus.🔄
Incorporating these exercises into your child’s daily routine can provide much-needed sensory input and help them regulate their nervous system. Plus, they’re a fun way to bond and engage with your little one!
The ADHD Conundrum
Toddlers, pre-adolescents, and adults with autism often grapple with neurological regulation, leading to restlessness and hyperactivity. But fear not, fellow parents! Environmental factors like sound and lighting can also stir the hyperactivity pot. 🌪️
Whether the lights need to be dimmed or noise cancelling headphones put on we can work through this and learn together. Jacob learned sight words by jumping on the rebounder while I flashed cards. He can tolerate the vacuum with head phones, just don’t give up.💡
Signs and symptoms of hyperactivity in autism
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of hyperactivity in autistic toddlers is essential for early intervention and effective management of this behavior. Some of the common signs and symptoms of hyperactivity in autism include:
Excessive physical movement: Autistic toddlers with hyperactivity may exhibit constant fidgeting, restlessness, and an inability to sit still for extended periods. They may frequently jump, run, or climb, often without a clear purpose or goal.
Difficulty in focusing and sustaining attention: These toddlers may have a short attention span, quickly shifting their focus from one activity to another, making it challenging for them to engage in tasks or follow instructions.
Impulsive behaviors: Autistic toddlers with hyperactivity may act impulsively, without considering the consequences of their actions. They may interrupt conversations, grab toys from others, or engage in dangerous behaviors without hesitation.
Emotional dysregulation: Hyperactivity in autism can be accompanied by emotional outbursts, tantrums, and difficulty in managing their feelings. Toddlers may experience sudden mood changes, become easily frustrated, or have difficulty calming themselves down.
Sensory-seeking behaviors: Autistic toddlers with hyperactivity may engage in sensory-seeking behaviors, such as spinning, rocking, or constantly touching objects, as a way to self-regulate and cope with their heightened sensory experiences.
Disrupted sleep patterns: Hyperactivity in autism can lead to difficulties in falling asleep, frequent nightwakings, and overall poor sleep quality, which can further exacerbate the child’s behavioral challenges.
Recognizing these signs and symptoms early on is crucial for seeking appropriate support and interventions to help autistic toddlers with hyperactivity manage their behaviors and thrive in their developmental journey.
Common challenges faced by toddlers with hyperactivity in autism
Toddlers with autism who exhibit hyperactive behaviors often face a multitude of challenges that can significantly impact their daily lives and overall development. One of the primary challenges is the difficulty in focusing and maintaining attention, which can hinder their ability to engage in learning, play, and social interactions.
Additionally, the constant state of physical and mental restlessness can make it challenging for these toddlers to participate in structured activities, follow instructions, and complete tasks. This can lead to frustration, tantrums, and behavioral outbursts, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the child and their caregivers.
Hyperactivity in autistic toddlers can also disrupt their sleep patterns, leading to fatigue, irritability, and difficulty in regulating their emotions. This, in turn, can impact their overall well-being, cognitive development, and social-emotional growth. Parents and caregivers often struggle to find effective strategies to manage these behaviors, which can be both physically and emotionally draining.
Solutions Ahoy! Taming Hyperactivity
So here I am, armed with a steaming cup of coffee and a treasure trove of tips. ☕ Let’s dive into some gems:
– Noise Dampening: Enter the headphones! A lifesaver in muting the cacophony of the outside world. Whether it’s the vacuum’s wails or a neighbor’s late-night karaoke session, these babies are Jacob’s shield against auditory chaos. 🎧
– Bouncing Fun: Ah, the rebounder—a trampoline of sensory satisfaction! It’s not just for bouncing; it’s a classroom on springs! From sight words to songs, learning takes flight on this bouncy adventure. 🤸♂️
– Creative Distraction: Play-Doh, fidget toys, or anything to keep those hands busy and minds engaged. Sensory breaks don’t have to be dull; they’re a chance for creativity to shine! Slot these gems into the schedule between tasks, redirecting anxious energy into productive play. 🎨
Creating a Sensory Haven: Home Transformation
Here’s a challenge: Transform your home into a sensory-friendly wonderland! We turned chores into adventures, using pictures and Legos to build Jacob’s skills. Each mastered creation earned a spot in his independent work schedule—a win-win of sensory engagement and skill-building! 🏰
The Superhero Schedule: Jacob’s Secret Weapon
For Jacob, his schedule is his superhero cape, ready to tackle the day’s challenges. Changes aren’t shocks but opportunities to prepare and practice, saving us all from the chaos of unexpected transitions. 🦸♂️💥
And there you have it, folks! A roadmap to taming hyperactivity’s wild ride.Here’s another article to check: https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/childhood-adhd/adhd-or-autism With a sprinkle of creativity and a dash of routine, your toddler can navigate the high seas of sensory overload like a seasoned captain. Smooth sailing ahead! 🌊
With these strategies in your arsenal, you’ll be the captain of your child’s ship, guiding them through the choppy waters of hyperactivity with ease and humor. 🌟
As parents, we want to raise responsible and independent children who can take care of themselves and contribute to their households. When you have a child with autism, sometimes you just don’t know where to start, and fear takes over. “My child isn’t even verbal; don’t tell me to teach chores, I mean really!” 😅
Once I realized Jacob needed this as much or more than other children, I got to work. We can teach our kids how to do household chores. It’s really not that hard—no special education degree required! Just a simple schedule and consistency. 📅✅
Parents need a break too!
Even if it’s going to the grocery store alone!
Not only does this help to lighten the load for busy parents, but it also teaches children valuable life skills that will serve them well into adulthood. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top five chores that every child should learn how to do, and why.
From doing laundry to washing dishes, these tasks may seem mundane, but they are crucial for building responsibility, self-sufficiency, and a strong work ethic in children. So, let’s dive in and discover the benefits of teaching kids how to help out around the house. 🧺🍽️✨
Age-Appropriate Chores for Children with Autism
It’s important to assign age-appropriate chores to children. Younger children can start with simple tasks such as putting away toys, making their bed, or helping to set the table. These tasks can all be included on a visual schedule. 📅 It’s essential for the child to know what’s expected and when they are finished! ✅
As children get older, they can take on more responsibility, such as doing laundry, washing dishes, and cleaning their room. 🧺🍽️ Jacob has all of these on his daily schedule now that he is older and not reporting to a job.
Chores Based on Age
Assigning chores for children with autism based on age not only ensures that the task is appropriate for their physical and mental capabilities, but it also helps to build their confidence and sense of independence. As they complete these tasks, they will feel a sense of accomplishment and pride in their ability to contribute to the household. 🌟
Don’t be afraid to assign tasks that may be difficult at first but can be mastered with practice and patience. When Jacob is learning something new, I model the task and remain patient. It should not be an independent task until they are able to complete it without looking to you for help. 🧹
Remember, even superheroes need a bit of training before they can save the day! 🦸♂️🦸♀️ With consistency and encouragement, chores for children with autism can become a valuable part of their routine, promoting both independence and a strong work ethic.
Responsibility and Independence
One of the most important benefits of teaching children chores is that it teaches them responsibility and independence. When children are assigned chores, they learn that they are responsible for completing the task and that their actions have consequences. Jacob knows if he has a good week, he is allowed to order from Amazon or eBay on Friday. 📦
As they complete these tasks, they also learn valuable time management skills and how to prioritize their responsibilities. This helps to build a sense of independence and self-sufficiency, which is crucial for their development as they grow older. ⏰
Additionally, chores teach children the importance of taking care of their belongings and their environment. This not only helps to keep the house clean and organized, but also teaches children the value of respecting their surroundings. 🧹✨
Chores Teach Valuable Life Skills
Another benefit of teaching children chores is that it teaches them valuable life skills that will serve them well into adulthood. For example, doing laundry teaches children how to sort and wash clothes, as well as how to operate a washing machine and dryer. 🧺
Washing dishes teaches children how to clean and sanitize dishes properly, as well as how to handle fragile items. 🍽️ Cleaning their room teaches children how to organize and maintain their personal space, which is an important skill to have as they grow older and move out on their own. 🛏️
By teaching children these skills at a young age, parents are setting them up for success in the future. These skills will not only help them take care of themselves but also be valuable contributors to their communities and workplaces. As parents of children with autism, we have to face the fact we won’t live forever, so we have to help them be as independent as they can be! 🌟
Build Self-Esteem and Confidence
Completing chores can be a great confidence booster for children. As they complete tasks, they will feel a sense of accomplishment and pride in their ability to contribute to the household. Jacob is always happy when he’s allowed to order what he likes on Friday, but there have been a few Fridays he was sad because he didn’t have a great week. Be consistent! 😊
This can be especially powerful for children who may struggle in other areas. By giving them a task they can excel at, parents can help build their self-esteem and confidence, which will benefit them in other areas of their lives. 🌈
Additionally, completing chores can help children develop a sense of responsibility and reliability. When they consistently complete tasks, they will feel pride in their ability to follow through and meet their commitments. Yes! 🎉
Chores Teach the Value of Hard Work
Finally, teaching children chores helps instill the value of hard work. When children are assigned tasks, they learn that they need to work hard and put in the effort to complete them. 💪
This is an important lesson that will serve them well throughout their lives. Whether in their personal or professional lives, the value of hard work is crucial for success. 🏆
By teaching children the value of hard work through chores, parents are setting them up for success in the future. They will understand that success comes from effort and dedication and that anything worth having requires hard work and perseverance. 🚀
How to Introduce Chores to Your Children with Autism
Introducing chores to children can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips to make the process easier:
– Start Young: The earlier you start introducing chores, the easier it will be for children to understand their importance. Use a visual schedule—it’s simple and you don’t need to use a lot of language, which your child may not understand.
– Be Consistent: Make sure that chores are assigned consistently and that children understand the consequences of not completing them. This is KEY!
– Be Patient: Children may not do the task perfectly at first, but with practice and patience, they will improve. Pick your battles and remember it may not be done to your highest expectations, but it’s a work in progress.
– Provide Guidance: Be available to provide guidance and assistance when needed. Have a schedule and model without using a lot of language that will overwhelm your child.
– Make It Fun: Try to make chores as fun as possible by turning them into games or contests. Yes! I have a list of chores and so does Jake—I can always point to mine or his to make it a friendly competition.
Tips for Making Chores Fun for Children
Making chores for children with autism fun can help to motivate them to complete tasks. Here are some tips for making chores more enjoyable:
– Turn Tasks into Games: See who can fold laundry the fastest or who can clean their room the most thoroughly.
– Use Music: Play music while completing tasks to make them more enjoyable. Check out this post: How my husband changes Jacob’s bad mood with music! #musicandautism.
– Offer Rewards: Consider offering rewards for completing tasks, such as extra screen time or a special treat.
– Work Together: To make chores more enjoyable and to teach children the importance of teamwork do your tasks too.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Teaching Children with Autism Chores
When teaching children chores, there are some common mistakes to avoid. Here are a few:
– Assigning Too Many Tasks: It’s important to assign tasks that are age-appropriate and manageable. Assigning too many tasks can be overwhelming and counterproductive.
-Providing Guidance: Children with autism may not know how to complete a task properly. Provide modeling and assistance when needed.
– Not Being Consistent: If chores are not assigned consistently, children may not understand their importance and may not complete them.
– Not Providing Positive Reinforcement: It’s important to provide positive reinforcement when children complete tasks. This helps to build their confidence and motivation.
Benefits of Teaching Children with Autism Chores
Teaching children chores is an important part of raising responsible and independent children. Chores teach responsibility, independence, valuable life skills, and the value of hard work. Additionally, completing chores can help to build self-esteem and confidence in children.
By introducing chores at a young age, parents can set their children up for success in the future. By being consistent, patient, and providing guidance and positive reinforcement, parents can help to make the process enjoyable.
For my autistic son to become fully independent and a kind person, we need these 3 crucial boundaries. First, we need time management. Second, we need emotional boundaries. Third, we need personal responsibility. Let’s dive into why these are essential and how they can make a difference.
Teenage And Beyond Challenges
We’ve been dealing with grumpiness since Jacob became a teenager. His body is going through changes, and he also takes seizure medication. Now, throw in autism and ADHD, and you’ve got a lot going on for sure! I’m not alone: https://autism-parents.com/2023/05/my-autistic-son-is-driving-me-insane/
Jacob used to be ready for a picture or video, always with a smile on his face, but then puberty struck, and we haven’t been able to get that happy-go-lucky kid back. 😔📸
Overcoming Extra Help and Spoiling
Now, the problem we are facing is that because the people surrounding Jacob know his struggles, we are helping out too much, and he’s come to expect all the extra help. He’s a bit spoiled and needs to learn to appreciate those around him and show love. He expects all the help without showing the gratitude he should. 🙏💔
Establishing Boundaries for Growth
Setting Boundaries for Your Child with Autism
To help Jacob grow into a responsible and independent adult, we need to set clear boundaries. These boundaries will help him manage his time better, regulate his emotions, and take personal responsibility for his actions. By setting these limits, we’re not only preparing Jacob for independence but also teaching him to be respectful and considerate of others. 🌟
In this post, I’ll share how we’re implementing these boundaries and why they are desperately needed for my autistic son’s development. Check out this post too: Autism mom, what happens when being a hands on mom doesn’t stop at 18? If you’re facing similar challenges, I hope our story can offer some insights and encouragement.
Boundaries for My Autistic Son
In our journey to help Jacob become independent and respectful, we’ve identified three key boundaries: Time Management, Emotional Boundaries, and Personal Responsibility. Let’s break down each one and how we’re tackling them. 🚀
Time Management ⏰
For your autistic child, understanding the importance of being punctual and respecting time boundaries can be challenging. Here’s what we’re doing to manage this:
Set Clear Expectations: Clearly communicate when tasks or activities need to be completed. Use visual timers/visual schedules and clocks to help your child understand deadlines. 🕰️
Consistency and Consequences: Be consistent and enforce consequences if expectations aren’t met. For example, if your child consistently fails to finish homework on time, establish a consequence like losing privileges. For Jacob, this means no Amazon order on Friday. 📦❌
Creating a routine around time helps build predictability, reducing anxiety and encouraging punctuality. And remember, even if it’s tough at first, stick to your guns! 💪
C.A.L.M.-Our Frameworks!
Emotional Boundaries 😌
Helping your child understand and respect their own emotions, as well as those of others, is crucial. Here’s our approach:
– Teach Appropriate Expression: Guide your child in expressing their feelings without aggression or manipulation. Use tools like emotion charts or social stories to illustrate how to handle different emotions. 📚
– Encourage Open Communication: Use visual schedules or choice boards to facilitate communication about their day. Practice active listening within the family, ensuring everyone’s emotions are acknowledged and validated. 👂❤️
– Consequences for Negative Behavior: If Jacob uses mean faces with sarcastic movie quotes because he’s feeling a certain way, there will be consequences. Loss of privileges is our go-to, because we refuse to live with someone who’s difficult and doesn’t show love and gratitude. 🥲
We all have our off days, but it’s essential to live together without making each other miserable. Jacob is very emotional and wants everyone to feel his pain/anger/angst when he’s feeling it too! Heavy sigh… 😩
Personal Responsibility 👊
Your autistic child needs to understand the importance of taking responsibility for their actions and choices. Here’s what we’re doing:
– Set Clear Boundaries: Establish and communicate expectations for behavior. We use Visual Schedules and routine to help! Hold your child accountable for their actions. 🗣️
– Encourage Problem-Solving: Motivate them to find solutions independently. Use social story books, videos, and even movies like *Inside Out*, which explores emotions. This helps build independence and self-reliance. 📖🎬
– Consistency Is Key: Be firm and consistent with consequences. No giving in and changing the rules, even if you’re tempted! 😅
By teaching personal responsibility, you’re helping your child develop critical life skills. They’ll learn that their actions have consequences and that they are capable of handling challenges. 🌟
Learning and Adjustments Needed 🎉
Setting these boundaries for Jacob is an ongoing process, filled with learning and adjustments. With patience and consistency, we’re seeing positive changes. We’re implementing our CALM framework to stay focused:
– Consistent Action Forward: By taking consistent steps towards our goals, we’re building routines and habits that help Jacob succeed. 🚀
– Always Celebrate Wins: Recognize and celebrate each victory, no matter how small. Celebrating small steps forward keeps us motivated and positive. 🏆
– Learning to Create Schedules: Scheduling and routines are essential tools in helping Jacob manage his time and emotions. Creating and sticking to schedules empowers him to become more independent. 📅
– Mindset: Our mindset as parents is crucial. By staying positive and focusing on progress, we remain motivated and keep moving forward. 🌈
Not Just Discipline
These boundaries aren’t just about discipline; they’re about empowering Jacob to thrive as an independent and respectful individual. 🎊
I hope our experiences provide helpful insights and encouragement for your journey with your autistic child. Remember, you’re not alone, and every small step forward is a victory worth celebrating! 🎈
