autism

  • schedules, Uncategorized

    Create an autism friendly summer schedule for your child!

     

    summer-fun-is-on-the-schedule
    Jacob having fun at Barnes and Noble!

    Summer break should be a time of joy, not chaos. Here’s how one special education teacher transformed her family’s summers—and how you can too.

    The Summer Struggle Is Real

    Picture this: It’s the first week of summer break. Your child with autism, who thrived on school routines, is now melting down at every transition. Your carefully planned “relaxing summer” has turned into a battlefield of confusion, resistance, and exhaustion. Summer Structure = School Success: Why Kids with Autism Need Predictable Routines Now!

    I’ve been there—both as a special education teacher watching my students struggle with summer transitions, and as Jacob’s mom, witnessing firsthand how the loss of structure can derail our entire family’s peace.

    The truth? Children with autism and learning differences don’t just want structure—they need it to feel safe, confident, and capable.

    I figured out how to create autism friendly routines:

    Autism-friendly-summer-routine
    This is a typical daily summer schedule during the week.

    Why Summer Schedules Are Game-Changers for Autism Families

    Calm Through Predictability

    When Jacob was younger, asking him to do anything without warning guaranteed a meltdown. His brain needed time to process transitions, and verbal demands felt overwhelming. A visual schedule became our Calm strategy—creating peaceful transitions by showing rather than telling. Craving CALM? 3 ways our CALM system turns autism’s behavior challenges into progress.

    Authentic Communication Without Words

    Schedules became Jacob’s voice when words failed him. Instead of struggling with verbal instructions, he could see his day laid out clearly. This Authentic approach honored his communication style and reduced daily friction.

    Learning That Builds Independence

    Every successful schedule completion built Jacob’s confidence. These Learning opportunities weren’t just about following rules—they were about developing the life skills he’d need as an adult.

    Meaningful Structure That Grows With Your Child

    Our schedules evolved from simple “First-Then” boards to complex monthly planners. This Meaningful progression showed Jacob (and us) how capable he truly was.

    To start, my first summer schedule was a : First – Then schedule.

    Organized-schedule-for-autistic-children
    Simple First Then Schedule

    To start, my first schedule was a First – Then. Meaning, first you do this…. Then you get this. After this is accomplished and your child is successful, then you can add another task. You can make a list and use pictures. There are so many different ways you can create a schedule and make it fit your life and your child’s needs.

    Jacob’s daily work schedule always has a small chapter book of some kind to keep him reading. During the summer Barnes and Noble usually offers free books to kids who read and turn in their list. Why Most Visual Schedules Fail (And How to Fix Yours)

     

    Organized-schedule-for-autistic-children-during-summer
    List daily schedule and add in specials so your child knows whats coming in days ahead!

    The CALM Summer Schedule System: From Chaos to Confidence

    Phase 1: Start Simple with First-Then Schedules

    Your first summer schedule should be beautifully simple:

    • First: Complete one preferred activity
    • Then: Earn one highly motivating reward

    Example: First breakfast, then iPad time.

    This builds success patterns and trust in the system before adding complexity. https://www.popsugarcafe.com/blogs/news/summer-schedule-ideas-autistic-children-calm-visual-and-family-friendly

    Phase 2: Expand to Daily Routines

    Once your child masters First-Then, expand to a full daily schedule:

    Jacob’s Typical Summer Weekday (Elementary Years):

    • 8:00 AM – Breakfast
    • 9:00 AM – Reading time (chapter book)
    • 10:00 AM – Educational activity
    • 11:00 AM – Free choice time
    • 12:00 PM – Lunch
    • 1:00 PM – Quiet time/rest
    • 2:00 PM – Outdoor activity
    • 3:00 PM – Structured play
    • 4:00 PM – Help with dinner prep
    • Evening routine…

    Phase 3: Master Monthly Planning

    Jacob at 27 still uses monthly schedules that include:

    • Daily routines and self-care reminders
    • Special events and appointments
    • Family schedule integration
    • Independent living skills practice

    Pro Tips for Schedule Success

    Make It Visual

    • Use photos of your actual child doing activities
    • Include pictures of preferred items and places
    • Consider apps like First-Then Visual Schedule or Choiceworks

    Build in Flexibility

    • Include “choice time” slots
    • Have backup activities ready
    • Allow for spontaneous family moments

    Celebrate Progress

    • Acknowledge schedule completion
    • Take photos of successful days
    • Let your child help update their schedule

    Real-Life Summer Schedule Ideas

    Learning Activities That Don’t Feel Like School:

    • Library visits and reading challenges
    • Cooking projects that teach math and following directions
    • Nature scavenger hunts
    • Art projects with step-by-step visual guides

    Sensory-Friendly Summer Fun:

    • Morning walks before it gets hot
    • Water play with scheduled breaks
    • Quiet indoor activities during peak sun hours
    • Evening family bike rides

    Community Connection:

    • Regular grocery store trips to practice social skills
    • Playground visits at less crowded times
    • Special needs swimming programs
    • Structured playdates with understanding families
    Summer Chaos Free:
    Summer-family-fun-on-the-schedulecreate-autism-friendly-schedules
    Pic’s of the family over the years during summer!

    When Schedules Go Wrong (And How to Fix Them)

    Problem: Your child resists the schedule completely. Solution: Start smaller. Maybe begin with just morning routine, then gradually add activities.

    Problem: Meltdowns still happen at transition times. Solution: Add visual countdown timers and “almost finished” warnings to your schedule.

    Problem: Siblings feel left out or resentful of the structure. Solution: Create family schedules that include special one-on-one time with each child.

    The Long-Term Payoff

    Jacob is now 27, and our early investment in summer schedules has paid dividends. He independently manages his daily routines, anticipates appointments, and even helps his younger cousins understand their schedules when they visit.

    The real magic? Those chaotic summer days transformed into our family’s favorite memories—beach trips Jacob could anticipate and prepare for, structured camping adventures he could pack for independently, and quiet reading mornings that became our special tradition.

    Your Next Steps: Creating Your CALM Summer

    1. Choose one transition that’s currently causing stress
    2. Create a simple First-Then schedule for just that moment
    3. Use pictures of your child and their actual environment
    4. Practice for three days, then celebrate success
    5. Gradually add one more scheduled activity per week

    Remember: Progress Over Perfection

    Every child with autism is beautifully unique. Your schedule might look different from Jacob’s, and that’s exactly how it should be. The goal isn’t perfect compliance—it’s creating a framework where your child can thrive, learn, and enjoy their summer alongside the whole family.

    Summer doesn’t have to be about surviving until school starts again. With the right CALM approach, it can become the season where your child’s confidence blooms and your family finds its rhythm.

    About the Author

    As both a special education teacher and autism mom, I’ve spent over two decades discovering what actually works for families like ours. My CALM strategies have helped thousands of families move from surviving to thriving. Connect with me at EducatingJacob.com for more practical autism parenting resources

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  • Blog, Uncategorized

    Why buying Christmas presents can be hard when the child has autism.

    christmas presents can be hard when the child has autism
    #presentsandautism

    Christmas Presents for a Child with Autism Can Be Hard(And How to Make It Easier!)🎁

    Ah, the holiday season – filled with joy, festivities, and the sometimes daunting task of buying the perfect Christmas presents. 🎄 But what if your gift recipient is a child with autism? The adventure takes on a whole new level of complexity. Imagine “Jingle All the Way,” but instead of Turbo Man, you’re hunting for sensory-friendly clothes, very specific DVDs, or the perfect gift card. Trust me, as Jacob’s mom, I’ve been on this ride, and it’s one I’ll never forget! Help! 3 Ways a schedule can help sensory issues and communication barriers? #Autism Challenges🧩

    This year, let’s navigate the maze of holiday gift-giving with empathy, patience, and practical tips. By applying strategies from Educating Jacob’s CALM framework, you’ll discover how to turn gift-giving into a source of joy instead of stress.

    A child with autism often has limited interests.
    #limitedinterests

    Limited Interests, Maximal Specificity 🎬

    Jacob, like many children with autism, has some pretty specific interests. For him, it’s all about movies, but not just any movies. Oh no, we’re talking about films from the early 2000s with a certain cover from a specific year. Sounds challenging, right? It is. So, when we go shopping for Jacob, we’re on a mission – Amazon first, and if that doesn’t cut it, a detour to eBay might just save the day. The upside? We usually score a good deal. The downside? Jacob is as particular as a Michelin-starred chef. If it doesn’t meet his criteria, it’s a no-go, no matter how close it is to what he wants. You see, for kids like Jacob, the world isn’t just black and white; it’s an entire spectrum of details that matter. So, if the copyright date on the DVD doesn’t match his expectations, well, let’s just say, it’s going back to the seller faster than you can say “Santa Claus”!

    C: Consistency in Gift-Giving 🎁

    For children like Jacob, consistency is key. He thrives on routine, and the holidays can feel overwhelming with so many changes and surprises. Jacob, like many children with autism, has specific and limited interests. For him, it’s all about movies—but not just any movies. We’re talking about films from the early 2000s with a particular cover or copyright date. If those details don’t match, it’s a no-go, no matter how similar the item might be.

    • Example: One Christmas, we scoured Amazon and eBay to find a DVD he wanted but only from a specific year. While it seemed trivial at first, we realized how much these details mattered to him. That DVD wasn’t just a movie—it was his way of finding comfort in predictability.
    • Tip: Stick to what you know works. If your child loves puzzles, find one similar to their favorite. If they have specific interests, dig into the details to make it a hit.
    Children with autism often have sensory issues.
    #sensoryissues

    A: Always Celebrate Their Preferences 🎬

    Jacob’s favorite things aren’t just hobbies; they’re anchors of familiarity and joy. Whether it’s a Chick-fil-A gift card or a beloved Marvel hoodie, honoring his preferences shows him that his needs matter.

    • Example: Gift cards have become a hit in our home! Jacob loves the independence of choosing his own items. He lights up when he gets to flash a gift card and pick something he truly wants.
    • Old Insight: One year, his grandmother gave him a beautifully illustrated book with a sentimental note written inside. It should have been perfect, but Jacob rejected it because it didn’t match his expectation of a “new” book. It wasn’t about being ungrateful; it was about needing sameness.
    • Tip: Observe closely and tailor gifts to their preferences. If they love trains, make sure it’s their type of train, not just any train.
    Children on the autism spectrum often need sameness and repetition.
    #sameness

    L: Learn to Adapt for Sensory Needs 🧦

    Buying clothes for Jacob is like navigating a minefield of textures, tags, and seams. If it’s not soft and tagless, it’s a no-go.

    • Example: One year, we found a hoodie with Jacob’s favorite character, but the material wasn’t quite right. Lesson learned! Now, we always check fabrics carefully to avoid any sensory discomfort.
    • Old Insight: Even when we think we’ve nailed it, there’s still a chance it might not meet Jacob’s sensory standards. The texture might be off, or the stitching might feel scratchy to him. It’s not ungratefulness—it’s just autism at play.
    • Tip: For clothing or tactile gifts, let your child feel the fabric or test it before purchasing. This small step can make a world of difference.

    M: Mindset Makes the Holiday Bright 🌟

    One of the most important things I’ve learned is to approach the holidays with a calm and positive mindset. The perfect gift might not exist, but the perfect moment does—when your child feels loved and understood.

    • Example: One Christmas, Jacob refused to accept a beautifully illustrated book because someone had written inside it. It wasn’t rejection; it was his need for sameness. Instead of being upset, we adapted by ensuring all future books stayed “pristine.”
    • Old Insight: Another time, Jacob was thrilled with a Thomas the Train set—until he realized it didn’t include the exact engine he envisioned. We learned to communicate with him about expectations before surprises to avoid disappointment.
    • Tip: Expect the unexpected and focus on your child’s joy, not perfection. Be patient, and know that it’s okay to adjust on the fly.

     

    We wish you a Merry Christmas
    #ChristmasWithAutism https://educatingjacob.com/3-ways-to-help-your-child-with-autism-enjoy-christmas-without-meltdowns-and-anxiety/

    Tips and Strategies for Autism-Friendly Holiday Shopping

    1. Stick to Familiar Favorites
      • Lean into the things your child already loves. Specific toys, books, or shows are a great starting point.
    2. Prioritize Sensory-Friendly Options
      • Look for tagless, soft, and seamless clothing or tactile gifts that suit your child’s sensory preferences.
    3. Consider Gift Cards for Independence
      • Let your child pick their own gift! Whether it’s Amazon, Target, or a local favorite, gift cards empower them with choice.
    4. Plan Ahead with Visual Schedules
      • Add holiday activities like shopping or gift-opening to your child’s visual schedule to prepare them for changes in routine.
    5. Embrace Simplicity and Joy
      • It’s not about the cost or size of the gift. It’s about the love, effort, and understanding you bring to the experience.
    The Gift of Love and Understanding 🎄

    Buying Christmas presents for a child with autism is no easy task, but it’s one filled with opportunities for growth, connection, and love. By applying the CALM framework—consistency, celebrating preferences, adapting for sensory needs, and embracing a positive mindset—you can create a holiday season filled with joy and understanding.

    Now that the challenge of Christmas shopping for a child with autism is over, especially if you’re looking for ways to make Christmas more enjoyable. Check out last year’s post, ‘3 Ways To Help Your Child With Autism Enjoy Christmas Without Meltdowns And Anxiety,’ we explored strategies for a smoother holiday season. https://educatingjacob.com/3-ways-to-help-your-child-with-autism-enjoy-christmas-without-meltdowns-and-anxiety/

    🧐Struggling with daily routines and meltdowns? 🌟 As an autism parent coach, I help you transform chaos into calm.🌟

     

    📅Schedule a discovery call

    👉🏼 Schedule here  🔗 

    Let’s work together to create a structured, peaceful home where your child can thrive.📚

    Book a coaching session today and start seeing real, positive changes in your family’s life! 💙

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  • Blog, schedules

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

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

    A Surprising Start to Our Autism Journey

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

    Teaching My Son to Read

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

    Diving into the Deep End of Homeschooling

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

    Officially Homeschooling

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

    Creative Homeschooling Tactics

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

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

    The Calm in the Storm

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

    Not a Teacher Yet

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

    The Proud Moment

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

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

    Teaching Triumph

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

    Challenges and Rewards

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

    Celebrating Small Wins

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

    Don’t Give Up

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

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

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  • Blog, schedules

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

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

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

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

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

    Planning ahead use a Visual Schedule

    Step 1:

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

    Create a Simple Schedule 🗓️

    Step 2:

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

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

    Step 3:

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

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

    Keep it Simple:

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

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

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

    Make it Fun:

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

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

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

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

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