schedules

  • Blog, schedules

    You Have to Stop Freaking Out! Mindset for Autism Parenting.

    Mindset-for-Autism-Parenting
    Routine things can be difficult for children with autism, Let’s help them!

    Mindset for Autism Parenting

     

    When you first receive an autism diagnosis, it’s completely natural to feel a rush of emotions—shock, fear, maybe even grief. You have to move beyond the fear and get a mindset for autism parenting. We all envision what family life will look like, filled with vacations, holidays, and weekend adventures. Suddenly, with the diagnosis, those dreams might feel out of reach, and it’s easy to feel like everything you’d imagined has shifted.

     

    But here’s the truth: while it’s okay to feel those emotions initially, staying in a place of fear and worry only holds us back. As parents, we need a plan, not just for our children but also for ourselves. When we’re overwhelmed by worry, we can’t move forward and be the parents our kids need us to be. 

    In this post, I’ll share the mindset shift that helped me step away from overwhelm and back into a place of confidence and control. With the right mindset, we can embrace life on Autism Island with calm, purpose, and strength, making space for family joy—on our terms. https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/not-wired-for-this-world

    You Have to Stop Freaking Out!

    When we first hear the word “autism” in connection with our child, it can feel like everything we hoped for as a family is suddenly uncertain. That moment is overwhelming. I remember the fear and grief vividly. What would happen to the vacations, holiday traditions, sports games, and concerts I’d always imagined we’d share as a family? The future I’d dreamed of for Jacob suddenly seemed out of reach.

    It’s okay to feel these things. You’re not alone in this experience. The key is not to stay stuck in fear. We don’t want to lose the confidence and joy that first came with parenting. We’re here to love, guide, and teach our children, just as Proverbs 20:11 reminds us: “Even a child makes himself known by his acts, by whether his conduct is pure and upright.” With the right mindset, you can move forward confidently, finding purpose in each day, and building a home filled with peace, calm, and joy.

    Mindset: Start with CALM Action

    For me, shifting my mindset began with taking CALM action forward. I realized that I was the best person to help Jacob, even though I had no experience with autism. You don’t need a degree to make a positive difference in your child’s life, but you do need the right mindset and practical tools. You are qualified and capable; you know your child better than anyone else.

    When Jacob was young, I had no idea what to look for or where to start. His speech was delayed, and we kept hearing, “He’ll talk when he’s ready.” Looking back, I can see the signs—the hand-flapping, sensory excitement—but at the time, I had no guidance. It wasn’t until he was four that we got the diagnosis, and by then, I felt like so much time had been lost.

    Proverbs-20:11_Educating-Jacob
    Let’s use our Visual Schedules to guide Actions!

    Finding Support and Setting Goals

    After Jacob’s diagnosis, I was consumed with research and self-doubt. I didn’t have anyone to mentor me, and I felt like a horrible mom, overwhelmed and unsure. Over time, with the support of friends, family, and my own growing strength, I started to find my footing. My best friend gave me the confidence to keep going when she told me, “You’re doing everything you can, and you’re going to figure this out.” We were both homeschooling at this point in the journey.

    Finding someone who’s been where you are can be incredibly helpful. Having a mentor or a supportive community can keep you moving forward. And remember: confidence starts with a single step. Even small victories build momentum and hope.

    Journaling-helps-to-look-back-on-past-struggles-and-victories
    Celebrate all Wins! Journal so you can look back and see progress.

    The Power of Visual Schedules for Calm and Communication

    Looking back, I can see how learning to make activities and visual schedules for Jacob transformed our lives. At the time, I didn’t understand how this would help—he wasn’t even speaking! But structured routines were exactly what he needed to reduce anxiety and meltdowns, and they helped me communicate without words. 4 Things I Wish I Would Have Known After Getting the Autism Diagnosis

    Visual schedules became our lifeline. They allowed Jacob to see his day at a glance, knowing what was coming next without needing long explanations. This structure helped him feel safe and reduced his need for meltdowns as a way to control his world. The calm it brought was a gift, and it even helped ease my own anxiety.

    Building Routines and Confidence for Your Child (and You!)

    Children with autism thrive on structure and routine. A well-laid-out day allows them to understand their world without constant fear of the unknown. Visual schedules and activities give them something predictable to rely on, reducing anxiety and providing calm.

    When I began creating visual schedules, I kept it simple, starting with things Jacob was already familiar with, like brushing his teeth or choosing his clothes. Every small success became a building block for confidence, and I celebrated each win. It’s a powerful feeling to watch your child become more independent, even with small steps. Over time, this helped both of us approach each day with more ease.

    Tips for building routines with confidence:

    • Start small and keep it simple – Begin with familiar tasks and gradually build on them.
    • Celebrate wins – Acknowledge every success, no matter how small, to build confidence.
    • Adjust as needed – Be flexible; what works one day might need a tweak the next.
    Creating a Home Filled with Calm, Joy, and Structure

    Our journey taught me that achieving calm doesn’t require big, dramatic changes. Instead, small actions—visual schedules, routines, and learning to communicate in non-verbal ways—had the biggest impact. I even taught Jacob a bit of sign language, paired with his favorite songs, which helped him express himself without feeling overwhelmed by words. Over time, our home became a place of calm and joy, where everyone could feel understood and safe. Stop engaging in power struggles! Use redirection for your autistic child.

    Remember: You don’t have to go through this journey alone. There are others who’ve walked this path and can offer support and encouragement. Visual schedules and routines may seem small, but they are game-changers. They help reduce stress, create calm, and provide clarity for you and your child.

    Tips to Keep Moving Forward with Confidence
    1. Trust Your Instincts – You know your child best. Use this knowledge to create routines and strategies that work specifically for them.
    2. Celebrate Every Small Step – Even a small win is a huge step in the right direction. Acknowledge each success to build momentum.
    3. Find a Support System – Seek out others who understand the autism journey. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or online community, support makes all the difference.
    4. Document Your Journey – Journaling, even if only on difficult days, can help you see how far you’ve come. When things feel challenging, look back at past entries and recognize the growth.
    5. Stay Flexible and Open – Every child is unique. If something doesn’t work, pivot and try again. Trust that you’ll find a rhythm that suits both you and your child.
    🧐 Struggling with daily routines and meltdowns?
    🌟 As an autism parent coach, I help you transform chaos into calm by creating strategies that work for your family. 🌟

    📅 Schedule a discovery call
    👉🏼 Visit my contact page to get started: https://educatingjacob.com/contact/

    #autismcoach #autismparentcoaching #autismandepilepsy #autismfamily💙#autismmom😎 #autismboymom😎 #autismchallenges🧩 #AutismParenting #DoctorVisitSuccess #EducatingJacob #AutismSupport #CalmParenting#askmelissa

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  • Blog, schedules

    How to achieve CALM on Autism Island, daily life on the spectrum.

    Managing autism chaos and stress as a parent
    #VisualSchedules #AutismLife #MomLifeWins

    Managing Autism Chaos and Stress as a Parent

    Achieving CALM on Autism Island  is truly a journey, and I can tell you from experience—it’s not always smooth sailing! Managing autism chaos and stress as a parent in the early years, we were overwhelmed with frustration and fear because we didn’t know how autism would affect Jacob or our family. Fear kept us stuck in a place of chaos for a long time. We had no roadmap, and I constantly questioned myself as a parent, wondering if I was doing enough or if I was the “worst mom ever.” There were no mentors, no clear answers, and it felt like we were alone on this chaotic island.

    Fast forward to today, year 27 of our journey, and while there are still challenges, we now live with calm, structure, and without the chaos and stress of those early years. This transformation didn’t happen overnight. It came from creating routines, using visual schedules, and following the CALM framework I’ve built over the years. And that’s why I started this blog—to share my experiences and help other moms who are feeling just like I did back then.

    In this post, I’m going to walk you through the steps that helped us turn our chaotic island into a place of calm and peace, so you can create that same calm in your daily life on the spectrum.

     

    Managing daily life autism chaos and stress as a parent
    Managing daily life autism chaos and stress as a parent

    Daily Life Tips for Parents of Autistic Children 

     

    I lost my confidence and joy as a mom the day I was hit with Jacob’s autism diagnosis. What I initially thought was just a speech delay turned into something much bigger—autism. It felt like a tidal wave crashing over our family, leaving me unsure of how to move forward. After months of research (remember dial-up internet?!), I found papers documenting behaviors and problems, but nothing really helped me create a plan for Jacob or our family.

     

    That’s when I took things into my own hands and decided to get my master’s degree in special education. Now, I want to be clear—you do not need a teaching degree to help your child. I went to that extreme because I was blindsided by the diagnosis and wanted answers. I was emotional and being a little extra! My confidence was gone so I went a little overboard to get it back. But you already have the most important thing: you know your child better than anyone. With the right tools, you can create calm in your home and build a life of joy and confidence for your family.  https://aheartforallstudents.com/autism-calming-strategies/

     

    How to Achieve Calm in Autism Parenting

     

    In order to achieve calm in my parenting, I needed both knowledge and a plan. The key breakthrough for us came when I learned to create visual schedules for Jacob. These simple tools became a game-changer, giving Jacob a way to understand his day without feeling overwhelmed by language or anxiety. 

     

    At first, we started small—just a few daily activities were placed on his schedule. But over time, these schedules gave Jacob the confidence to take on more. As he began doing small chores and following his schedule, the meltdowns decreased dramatically. He was no longer trying to control everything around him because the structure was already in place. That alone was GOLD for us as a family.

     

    By reducing Jacob’s anxiety and meltdowns, our home shifted from a place of chaos to one of calm. We could finally relax and enjoy being together, even as we faced new challenges. I began to feel more confident as a mom and started savoring more moments with Jacob. As his anxiety lessened, so did mine.

     

    Creating Structure for Children with Autism

     

    Children with autism, like Jacob, crave structure and routine. It brings them comfort, allowing them to navigate their day without feeling like they’re constantly in “fight or flight” mode. Managing autism chaos and stress as a parent, it’s our job is to provide that structure through simple routines that eliminate stress and overwhelm.

     

    At @EducatingJacob, we teach the CALM framework, and it all starts with Consistent Action Forward. This doesn’t mean we micromanage every moment of the day, but we do create visual schedules and routines for daily tasks. These schedules set our children up for success, and they don’t need to be complicated to be effective.  Stop engaging in power struggles! Use redirection for your autistic child.

     

    Start small and simple. Begin with something your child already does well. For Jacob, this meant starting with tasks he was already somewhat familiar with—like brushing his teeth or putting on his shoes. We celebrated every win, no matter how small. With each success, we added new tasks, slowly building his routine.

     

    Celebrate every win. Whether it’s following the schedule for one task or completing an entire routine, each small victory builds momentum. When your child feels successful, they are more likely to embrace the schedule, and that’s when you can add new elements without resistance.

     

    Once the routine is in place and your child is following it consistently, you can rinse and repeat—adding new tasks as your child becomes more comfortable. Over time, this builds a daily routine that fits your family’s needs and sets your child up for a lifetime of calm and independence.

     

    From Chaos to Calm: The Power of Visual Schedules

     

    Our journey on Autism Island started with fear, frustration, and a lot of chaos. But once we began using visual schedules and followed the CALM framework, everything changed. The schedules became a tool that reduced Jacob’s anxiety, improved his communication, and gave him the confidence to navigate his day.🌴

     

    These tools not only helped Jacob thrive but also helped our entire family relax and find peace. My confidence as a mom returned, and I started to see the brighter days ahead. How are using schedules improving our autistic child’s daily life?

     

    Get-a-plan-and-a-Visual-Schedule
    #VisualSchedule #GetAPlan
    Tips and Strategies for Achieving CALM on Autism Island

     

    1. Start Small with Visual Schedules  

       Begin by incorporating simple tasks into your child’s visual schedule. Focus on activities they are already familiar with to build confidence and reduce resistance. Over time, you can add more complexity, but keep it manageable at first.

     

    1. Be Consistent with Daily Routines  

       Consistency is key to reducing anxiety. Stick to the schedule every day to help your child feel secure and in control. The more consistent you are, the more they will rely on the routine to guide them.

     

    1. Celebrate Every Win  

       Whether it’s completing one small task or following the entire schedule, celebrate these moments! Positive reinforcement encourages your child to keep going and builds their self-esteem.

     

    1. Use the Schedule to Reduce Meltdowns 

       Visual schedules eliminate the need for a lot of verbal instructions, which can sometimes provoke meltdowns in children with autism. By pointing to the schedule, you provide clear direction without overwhelming your child with language.

     

    1. Gradually Introduce Change  

       Once your child is comfortable with their routine, start introducing small changes. Whether it’s adding a new task or modifying the schedule, go slowly and allow your child to adjust before moving on. Don’t overwhelm yourself or your child by changing everything at once.

     

    1. Stay Calm and Flexible  

       It’s important to remain calm, even when things don’t go as planned. Flexibility will help you adjust to your child’s needs while still keeping the routine intact. If your child struggles with a new task, model and assist until your child can do independently. It shouldn’t be part of an independent schedule until it’s able to be done without you helping.

     

    1. Incorporate Fun and Joy  

       Use the visual schedule to include fun activities that your child enjoys. This makes the schedule feel rewarding and helps them look forward to following it. Remember to balance structure with moments of joy! You can offer rewards at the end of a successful task, end of day or when they are older the end of week. Just remember to always acknowledge and celebrate the wins.

     

    🧐 Struggling with daily routines and meltdowns?
    🌟 As an autism parent coach, I help you transform chaos into calm by creating strategies that work for your family. 🌟

    📅 Schedule a discovery call
    👉🏼 Visit my contact page to get started: https://educatingjacob.com/contact/

    #autismcoach #autismparentcoaching #autismandepilepsy #autismfamily💙#autismmom😎 #autismboymom😎 #autismchallenges🧩 #AutismParenting #DoctorVisitSuccess #EducatingJacob #AutismSupport #CalmParenting #AutismParenting #VisualSchedules#CALMFramework #AutismLife #DailyRoutinesForAutism #AutismTipsForParents #AutismAnxietyReliefCreatingStructureForAutism #AutismMomLife #FromChaosToCalm

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  • Blog, schedules

    How we plan for Halloween on Autism Island, hint Jacob ❤️ Superman! 🎃

    Autism_Halloween-@educatingjacob
    Jacob will wear his favorite Superman shirt and pass out Candy!

    Planning Halloween for Children with Autism! 🎃

    Halloween is just around the corner, grab your planner and let’s start Planning Halloween for children with autism. While it’s not one of my “big” holidays (I’m more of a Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter fan), I know how much kids love to dress up—especially Jacob! 🎃 On Autism Island, planning ahead is essential to make sure the day goes smoothly, and for Jacob, that means staying in his comfort zone while having a little fun. His go-to? Super soft superhero shirts—his favorites being Superman and Ninja Turtles. 🦸‍♂️

     

    So, this year, we’ll be making sure Jacob has his Superman shirts clean and ready to go, maybe even a red cape, so he can enjoy the festivities and help hand out candy to trick-or-treaters. 🎁 The key to a calm, enjoyable Halloween? Planning ahead! Be sure to add your child’s costume or activities to their visual schedule, so there are no last-minute surprises that throw the day off track. How are using schedules improving our autistic child’s daily life?

     

    In this post, I’ll share how we prepare for Halloween to ensure it’s a fun, stress-free experience for Jacob and the whole family. Let’s get ready for a superhero Halloween on Autism Island!

     

    How We Plan for Halloween on Autism Island 🎃

    Planning Halloween for children with autism doesn’t have to be stressful or chaotic. For Jacob, we’ve learned that a little planning goes a long way. This year, Jacob will be channeling his favorite superhero, Superman! 🦸‍♂️ We keep things simple and comfortable, which is key to making sure Halloween is a fun and enjoyable experience for him.

     

    Choose-Sensory-Friendly-Costumes-for-Autism
    #SensoryFriendlyCostumes

    Choosing an Autism-Friendly Halloween Costume 🦸‍♂️

    For Jacob, wearing costumes that he’s comfortable in is non-negotiable. So, instead of buying a new costume with itchy tags and uncomfortable materials, I’ll be pulling out one of his favorite Superman shirts—something we know works. I’ll grab a red cape to complete the look, but the key here is that Jacob is comfortable and happy.

    When planning Halloween for children with autism, it’s important to focus on sensory-friendly costumes. Jacob loves his soft shirts, and I don’t have to worry about any sensory issues because we’re using something he already enjoys wearing. This means no surprises or discomfort on the big day, which keeps the day stress-free for both of us.

    How Jacob has success daily without anxiety. #autismchallenges

    Incorporating Halloween into the Visual Schedule 🗓️

    One of the biggest autism-friendly Halloween tips is using a visual schedule to plan out the day. Jacob thrives on routine, so making sure Halloween activities are laid out ahead of time helps reduce any anxiety or last-minute surprises.

    Here’s how I break it down:
    – Two weeks before Halloween: We’ll put up fall-themed decorations like pumpkins. Jacob loves being involved, and having it on the schedule gives him something to look forward to.
    – One week before Halloween: We’ll go to the store to buy candy and a pumpkin for decorating. This way, Jacob can be part of the whole process, and he knows exactly what’s happening and when.
    – Halloween day: His Superman shirt and cape will be clean and ready to go. The candy will be out, and Jacob will be prepared to greet trick-or-treaters, which is one of his favorite parts of the day!

     

    Using Visual Schedules to Manage Transitions and Excitement 🎃✨

    Visual schedules are a game-changer when it comes to managing transitions and excitement for holidays like Halloween. They help children with autism anticipate what’s coming, which reduces stress and makes the day more enjoyable for everyone.

    If Jacob is having a tough day leading up to Halloween, I can point to the schedule and remind him, “Look, we get to decorate pumpkins tomorrow,” or “Look at the Halloween party on the schedule!” Redirecting his attention to something positive that he’s looking forward to works wonders in keeping things calm and keeping him focused on what’s to come. 🎨🎃

     

    Creating a Calm and Enjoyable Halloween 🎃🧘‍♀️

    Halloween on Autism Island is all about preparation and using tools like visual schedules to make the day smooth and fun. Here’s how we keep things calm:

    – Plan ahead: Make sure the costume is ready, decorations are up, and the candy is bought—all in advance.
    – Keep the schedule visible: Jacob can see the countdown to Halloween and the different activities planned. This helps him get excited while staying calm because he knows what to expect.
    – Set the environment: For us, that means fall decorations, some pumpkins, and, of course, his favorite Superman shirt.

    Having everything planned out not only helps Jacob but also helps me! If I have a busy day or even wake up not feeling my best, the schedule is already in place, and I can follow through without scrambling. The key to a successful Halloween, or any holiday, is preparation and making sure your child knows what’s coming next.

     

    Why Planning Ahead Reduces Anxiety 🎃💡

    Planning Halloween for children with autism isn’t just about making the day fun—it’s about setting your child up for success. By having everything on the visual schedule, Jacob can prepare himself mentally for what’s going to happen. He knows when we’re decorating, buying candy, and when he gets to wear his beloved Superman shirt.

    It also gives me peace of mind. I’m not rushing around last minute, and we can both enjoy the day without feeling overwhelmed or anxious.

     

    Enjoying the Holiday Together 🎃💙

    At the end of the day, the goal is to enjoy the holiday together without stress or frustration. With everything planned, Jacob knows exactly what to expect. The visual schedule helps us avoid last-minute chaos, and Jacob feels more comfortable and secure knowing his favorite Superman shirt is ready and his part in the festivities is clear.

    Halloween doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it can be an exciting and enjoyable time for both you and your child. Just remember to plan ahead, use a visual schedule, and keep things sensory-friendly for your child. Now, let’s get ready for a superhero Halloween on Autism Island! 🎃🦸‍♂️

     

    Halloween-Tips-for-Autism-Island
    Halloween Tips Used on Autism Island!
    Tips and Strategies for a Calm and Fun Halloween 🎃💡

    1. Use Visual Schedules 🗓️
    Visual schedules help children with autism prepare for what’s coming. Add Halloween activities like decorating, candy shopping, and costume prep to the schedule so your child knows what to expect and when. This reduces anxiety and ensures smoother transitions.

    2. Choose Sensory-Friendly Costumes 👕
    Pick a costume your child is already comfortable with. If they have favorite clothes, like a superhero shirt, incorporate that into their costume. Avoid itchy fabrics, tags, or anything that might cause discomfort.  https://surpassbehavioralhealth.com/guides/sensory-friendly-halloween/

    3. Plan Ahead to Avoid Last-Minute Stress 🎃
    Set dates on your calendar for activities like pumpkin carving or candy shopping. Planning ahead keeps things calm for both you and your child, and having everything ready prevents unnecessary stress on the big day.

    4. Use Redirection for Tough Moments 🌟
    If your child is feeling overwhelmed, redirect their focus to something positive on their schedule, like “Tomorrow we’re decorating pumpkins!” or “Look, we get to give out candy tonight!” Redirection helps them manage their emotions.

    5. Keep the Holiday Fun and Enjoyable 🧘‍♀️
    The goal is to make Halloween enjoyable for everyone, so don’t put too much pressure on yourself or your child. Stick to what works for your family and keep the day light and fun. Take time to enjoy the moments together!

    🧐 Struggling with daily routines and meltdowns?
    🌟 As an autism parent coach, I help you transform chaos into calm by creating strategies that work for your family. 🌟

    📅 Schedule a discovery call
    👉🏼 Visit my contact page to get started: https://educatingjacob.com/contact/

    #autismcoach #autismparentcoaching #autismandepilepsy #autismfamily💙#autismmom😎 #autismboymom😎 #autismchallenges🧩 #AutismParenting #DoctorVisitSuccess #EducatingJacob #AutismSupport #CalmParenting

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  • Blog, schedules

    The fire does not consume us, life on Autism Island! Autism daily.

    “When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” 🔥 Isaiah 43:2
    Faith keeps us grounded and strong.

    Autism parenting challenge, Life on Autism Island!🔥🌊

    Autism parenting challenges and rewards are a part of our everyday life. After 27 years on this journey with our son Jacob, who just celebrated his birthday in August, we’ve faced many ups and downs. As a family of four—Jacob, his older brother, and us, his parents—we’ve grown and learned so much. But that doesn’t mean we have it all figured out. Life on Autism Island is full of surprises, adjustments, and yes, setbacks.

    Despite these challenges, we hold onto the promise from Isaiah 43:2: “When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” 🔥 This journey—this fire—does not consume us. With love, grace, and a strong commitment to each other, we continue to push forward through whatever comes our way.

    As we move into fall, we are once again facing new transitions and adjustments, much like we discussed in last week’s blog on seasonal changes. In this post, I’ll share more about the daily realities of life on Autism Island, the struggles, the rewards, and how we navigate it all with resilience and hope.

    Autism parenting challenges and rewards 🔥💙

    Autism parenting challenges and rewards have been at the heart of our 27-year journey with Jacob. As we walk through each season of life on Autism Island, we’ve learned that faith, family, and preparation are key. With Jacob’s sensory sensitivities and rigid routines, every day brings its own challenges, but we’ve also seen the rewards of patience, love, and growth over time.

    This journey isn’t perfect, and it’s not without its setbacks. But with God’s grace and our commitment to each other, we’ve learned to use tools like visual schedules and strategies from the CALM framework to help Jacob navigate his world. Our journey is proof that, with perseverance, things can get better. 🙏💪

    Autism Daily life joke
    As an Autism Parent you will need CALM and humor!

    The Power of Visual Schedules 🗓️

    One of the main tools that has transformed our daily life is visual schedules. Jacob’s love for routine means that any change—especially moving from one season to another—can be hard for him to accept. For example, this morning was the first chilly day of the season, and it was time to wear a hoodie. Since Jacob is used to wearing short sleeves, this transition didn’t go smoothly at first.

    What helps is incorporating the clothing change into his visual schedule. I lay out his clothes in advance and point them out on the schedule, giving him time to process that he’ll need a jacket or hoodie before we head out the door. This practice helps him see what’s coming and allows us to avoid some of the meltdowns that could occur without preparation. Check out this dad 👉 https://pin.it/3l8R65S46

     

    Redirection: Moving from Resistance to Cooperation 🎯

    Even with a visual schedule in place, Jacob sometimes resists new transitions. But instead of getting frustrated, I use redirection to help shift his focus. For example, if he’s upset about the hoodie, I’ll point out something exciting coming up later in the day, like picking out a pumpkin or getting his favorite snack. 🎃🍪

    Another effective tactic we use is referencing a favorite movie. Jacob loves quoting movies, so we might start exchanging movie quotes to lighten the mood and redirect his attention from the challenge at hand to something he enjoys. This method works wonders in getting him out the door without turning a small issue into a bigger battle. Stop engaging in power struggles! Use redirection for your autistic child.

     

    Faith, Family, and the CALM Framework ✨💪

    As we move through life on Autism Island, our faith has been a crucial part of how we manage autism parenting challenges and rewards. Isaiah 43:2 reminds us that the fire does not consume us, and we hold onto that promise every day. Ways to have peace? Creating time for yourself, not just your child with autism.

    Our family has learned to lean on God, and each other, showing love and grace as we guide Jacob through the tough moments. This means practicing the CALM strategies consistently:

    – C. onsistent Action Forward: Maintaining routines and schedules helps Jacob feel more secure.
    – A. lways Celebrate Wins: When Jacob follows the schedule, we celebrate, even if it’s something small. 🎉
    – L. earning to Create Schedules: Visual schedules are essential to our daily life.
    – M. indset: Keeping a calm and patient mindset helps Jacob feel more at ease.

    By using these strategies, we’ve been able to grow as a family and give Jacob the structure and support he needs to thrive.

     

    Journaling-helps-to-look-back-on-past-struggles-and-victories-
    Autism Daily Life can be difficult, journal to see your progress!
     Reflecting on the Journey 📔

    I also keep a journal to document our experiences. Writing down our daily challenges, feelings, and wins gives me a way to reflect on how far we’ve come. Looking back at times when we struggled, it’s clear that the consistent use of visual schedules, redirection, and our faith in God has made a real difference in our lives.

    When I feel overwhelmed, I go back to those journal entries to remind myself of God’s faithfulness and the progress we’ve made. It’s not always easy, but reflecting on our journey gives me the strength to keep going, knowing that each day we’re learning and growing as a family. I’m also sharing our experience to hopefully help others who are feeling frustrated or lost.

     

    Give Yourself and Your Child Grace 🌟💙

    We’ve come a long way from the early days of Jacob’s diagnosis, but that doesn’t mean every day is smooth. There are still tough moments, and emotions can change quickly in our home. Jacob can go from happy to grumpy in a matter of minutes, and some days it feels like we’re walking through fire. But I remind myself that faith, preparation, and kindness are what carry us through.

    If I can leave you with one piece of advice, it’s this: give yourself and your child grace. Don’t expect everything to be perfect. Practice using the strategies that work—like visual schedules and redirection—and trust that things will get better with time. The more you prepare, the more you’ll find moments of joy, even in the midst of challenges. You also don’t have to walk alone!

     

    Tips and Strategies for Navigating Autism Season Challenges 🌟

    1. Use Visual Schedules Consistently 🗓️

    Visual schedules are a lifeline for children with autism, especially when navigating seasonal transitions like moving from summer to fall. Consistency is key. By showing your child what to expect ahead of time, you reduce anxiety and help them adjust to new routines with ease. Whether it’s putting on a hoodie or switching up daily activities, make sure it’s reflected in their schedule.

    2. Practice Redirection 🎯

    When resistance or frustration arises, redirection can be your best tool. Shift the focus to something your child enjoys—whether it’s a favorite activity, snack, or even a beloved movie quote. This method helps steer them away from negative emotions and keeps the day moving forward.

    3. Celebrate Small Wins 🎉

    Even small victories deserve to be celebrated. If your child follows the visual schedule, give praise or a reward, no matter how minor the accomplishment may seem. Positive reinforcement builds confidence and encourages them to keep progressing. Celebrate wins as they come, and remember, progress is progress!

    4. Keep the CALM Framework in Mind ✨

    – C. onsistent Action Forward: Maintaining routines and schedules helps Jacob feel more secure.
    – A. lways Celebrate Wins: When Jacob follows the schedule, we celebrate, even if it’s something small. 🎉
    – L. earning to Create Schedules: Visual schedules are essential to our daily life.
    – M. indset: Keeping a calm and patient mindset helps Jacob feel more at ease.

    When you use the CALM framework, you’re giving your child the tools they need to navigate their day, while also giving yourself the space to be patient and kind.

    5. Incorporate Faith and Tradition 🙏

    If your family leans on faith, incorporating Bible verses, prayers, or spiritual practices into your child’s daily routine can create a sense of grounding. For Jacob, we use Bible verses as writing practice, and during holidays like Christmas and Easter, we use visual countdowns to help him understand important events. Building these traditions into your routine offers spiritual growth while maintaining structure.

    6. Journal Your Journey 📔

    Keeping a journal can help you track your child’s progress and reflect on how far you’ve come. When the tough days hit, looking back on past victories will remind you that you’re not alone in this journey. Journaling gives you the perspective needed to celebrate your wins and learn from the challenges. Remember the M in CALM is mindset-your mental health is important!

    7. Give Yourself and Your Child Grace 💙

    You won’t get everything right every day—and that’s okay. Give yourself the grace to make mistakes and learn from them. Give your child grace as they learn to navigate life with autism. By offering love, patience, and kindness, you’re making the journey more manageable for everyone.

    🧐 Struggling with daily routines and meltdowns?
    🌟 As an autism parent coach, I help you transform chaos into calm by creating strategies that work for your family. 🌟

    📅 Schedule a discovery call
    👉🏼 Visit my contact page to get started: https://educatingjacob.com/contact/

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