schedules

  • Blog, schedules

    Can a schedule help hyperactivity in toddlers? #Autism Challenges🧩

    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:

    1. 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.
    1. Sensory integration techniques: deep pressure can help autistic toddlers with hyperactivity self-regulate and manage their sensory needs.
    1. 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.
    1. Positive reinforcement and behavior management: Implement a positive reinforcement system. Consistent behavior management strategies, such as clear rules and consequences, can also be beneficial.
    1. 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.
    1. Caregiver support and education: Providing caregivers with education and training on managing hyperactivity in autism can empower them to implement effective strategies at home.
    Visual Schedules for young children
    Example of Jakes Schedule when he was younger.

    Knowing how to create a simple visual schedule will help reduce overwhelm and increase independence! Need to know more? check out this post: How can using schedules can change your child’s life?

    Autism and Calming Exercises

    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:

    1. 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.
    1. 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.
    1. 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.
    1. 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.
    1. 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.
    1. 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. 🤸‍♂️

    Add exercise to help calm and soothe, check out this post: Our New Years Challenge, the schedule we will use for our new habits!

    – 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. 🦸‍♂️💥

    If you need more help or examples go to past posts:No Schedule for Jacob to Use This Week? No Peace! Autism Challenges 🧩

    Smooth Sailing Ahead: Wrapping Up

    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. 🌟

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    Why teach chores for children with autism, how a schedule helps!

    5 Chores to teach your child with autism
    5 Chores you can teach even a young child.

    Click here to get a link to the printable list with why you should and how!

     Chores For Children With Autism

    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.

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    Why these 3 boundaries are desperately needed for my autistic son?

    3 Boundaries for My Autistic Son

     

    Why-are-these-3-boundaries-desperately-needed-for-my-autistic-son-Autism-Mom-
    Boundaries are Necessary for Everyone!

    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

    Checklist
    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. 🌟

    Sometimes you need alternatives to living in the same house, here is one story I found: https://www.autismspeaks.org/blog/difficult-decision-place-my-autistic-son-group-home-247-support

    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 onsistant Action forward A lways Celebrate Wins L earning to Create Schedules M indset
    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’m currently reading, Boundaries With Kids, by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend. It’s a great resource for understanding how to set effective boundaries. You can read more in this article: https://www.cloudtownsend.com/what-do-you-mean-boundaries-by-dr-henry-cloud-and-dr-john-townsend/ 

    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! 🎈

     

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    How my husband changes Jacob’s bad mood with music! #musicandautism.

    Change the Tune 🎶

    Music and autism, my husband uses music to improve Jacob’s bad mood. When Jacob starts repeating negative or angst-filled movie quotes, music becomes our go-to tool to redirect his focus and uplift his spirits. 🎥➡️🎵

    We’ve discovered that music he gets excited about—whether it’s tunes we enjoy together or soundtracks from his favorite movies—can work wonders. Below are a couple of playlists that Jacob loves when David is DJing. 🎧🎸

    As parents of children with autism, especially those with limited language skills, finding effective ways to manage emotions and behaviors is crucial. The power of music is AMAZING! Last week, I shared how sign language has significantly helped Jacob. This week, I want to show you how music can also be a fantastic way to redirect a bad mood. 🎤

    It’s hard to stay mad when you’re singing or dancing! Whether your child has expressive language delays or simply needs a mood boost, integrating music into your daily routine can create moments of joy and connection. 🌟

    Join me as we explore the magic of music and how it can transform challenging moments into opportunities for fun and engagement. Check out previous posts:How does mindset change things when raising a child with autism? 🧩

    The Challenge of Sarcastic Quotes 🎬

    When Jacob seems to be stuck in a loop of sarcastic movie quotes, he’s intent on making sure everyone knows the mood he’s feeling. He’s not able to just explain himself or what’s going on inside, as he doesn’t have typical conversations. This can make it hard to understand his emotions and thoughts.

    Using Positive Movie Quotes 🎥

    We use movie quotes from happier parts of the story or ones he enjoys saying frequently. I’m pretty good at this, but his dad and brother are much better at movie quotes because they can really do the voices and impersonations well. 🎭

    Activities and Music Therapy For Autism🎸

    Jacob’s dad excels as the house DJ. Being a musician, he intuitively starts playing Jacob’s favorite upbeat songs to shift his mood. Here’s a blog post I found on music therapy: https://www.theautismpage.com/music-and-autism-music-activities-and-music-therapy/  

    Music therapy has real results with the population of children with autism spectrum disorder. Here is another source to see:http://chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.musictherapy.org/assets/1/7/MT_Autism_2012.pdf

    Here are some playlists we use:

    Upbeat Songs from Movies and Shows

    • Water Buffalo – Veggie Tales
    • Belly Button – Veggie Tales
    • Pizza Angel – Veggie Tales
    • Larry Boy (Rock On) – Veggie Tales
    • In the Belly of the Whale – Jonah

    Classic Rock Hits

    • Don’t Bring Me Down – ELO
    • Shining Star – Earth, Wind & Fire
    • I Can Help – Billy Swan
    • Somewhere Only We Know – Keane

    Worship and Praise Songs

    • I’m Not Ashamed – Newsboys
    • Take Me To Your Leader – Newsboys
    • Wherever We Go – Newsboys
    • Shine – Newsboys
    • In The Belly Of The Whale – Newsboys

    This doesn’t come naturally to me, but it does for my husband. He plays guitar, and music is his go-to for himself and for Jacob. The rhythm and familiarity of the music work wonders in redirecting Jacob’s mood from negative to positive. Let’s learn how autism and music can work together to increase positive feelings🎶

    #musicandautism
    Music and Autism, change the tune!

    Integrating Music into School 📚

    Seeing how well music works with Jacob, I’ve started using YouTube at school, keeping music in the background. It can be challenging to find playlists with safe lyrics, so I stick with what I know. I don’t have time to vet all modern songs for lyrics, so I choose ones I’m certain are appropriate. 🎧

    Music has a positive impact not just on Jacob but also on my students. It helps them, and me, get through the day with a better mood and more focus.  Music and autism  go together because it engages and can calm a child with autism, so give it a try!

    The Influence of Music on Emotions 🎵

    Music can influence your feelings toward movie characters, enhance drama, fear, and even happiness! At home, we use music to promote happiness or increase stamina for cleaning or working out. It’s a powerful tool for setting the tone and energy of any activity. 🏃‍♂️

    The Mental Health Benefits of Music 🎧💆‍♀️

    Music isn’t just beneficial for children with autism; it’s also a powerful tool for parents. Managing the complexities of raising a child with autism can be stressful and emotionally draining. Integrating music into your daily routine can be a great way to boost your mental health and overall well-being. 🌈

    Increasing Positive Emotions

    Listening to your favorite songs can elevate your mood and increase positive emotions. Whether it’s a song that brings back happy memories or an upbeat tune that gets you moving, music has the power to lift your spirits and bring a smile to your face. 😄

    Decreasing Anxiety and Stress in autistic children

    Music is also effective in decreasing anxiety and stress. Gentle, soothing music can create a calming environment, helping to lower stress levels and promote relaxation. For moments of high stress or when you need a break, playing calming music can be a quick way to reset and find peace. 🧘‍♀️

    Choosing the Right Music

    It’s important to choose music that will lift your mood and change your tune positively. Create playlists that include songs you love, whether they are relaxing instrumentals or energetic tracks. Here are some tips:

    • Mood Boosters: Include songs that make you feel happy and energized.
    • Relaxation Tracks: Add calming instrumentals or nature sounds for moments when you need to de-stress.
    • Sing-Alongs: Include tracks that you can sing along to, as singing itself can be a great mood enhancer.

    Music can be your ally in maintaining a positive mindset, even on challenging days. Embrace it as a tool for self-care and let it help you navigate the ups and downs of parenting. 🎶

    Using Music for Autism Spectrum🎼

    So, use your powers for good and use music to show love, happiness, or excitement. In our house, we also use music in a big way for worship. Jacob loves TobyMac, MercyMe, and many others to sing praise songs. It’s another way we connect and find joy together.🙌 #musicandautism #autismcoach

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