Autism awareness

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    Educating Jacob: The Power of Communication in Autism Spectrum Disorder

    Communication in Autism Spectrum Disorder

    Jake's clothes for going out!
    These clothes are for going out and sensory friendly.

    Communication in autism spectrum disorder plays a vital role in our Jacob’s ability to express himself. In our daily lives with Jacob, schedules allow us to communicate with him, connect him with others, and navigate the world around him.

    Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication and social interaction skills, making it difficult for those with ASD to effectively express their thoughts, feelings, and needs.🌟

    The Challenge of Communication in Autism

    For my son Jacob, communication has always been a significant hurdle. From a young age, he struggled to convey his needs and emotions, leading to frustration and meltdowns. As parents of children with autism, we understand the heartache of seeing our children struggle to be understood. 💔 But there is hope and immense power in finding the right tools and strategies to help them communicate.

    Methods of Communication in Autism Spectrum Disorder

    There are various methods and strategies that can help individuals with ASD enhance their communication skills, fostering greater independence, understanding, and inclusion. Here are some of the tools that have made a difference in Jacob’s life:

    AAC Devices

    Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices have been game-changers for many children with autism. These devices range from simple picture boards to sophisticated speech-generating devices. 🗣️🔊

    Jacob used Proloquo2Go on his iPad, but we couldn’t get him to use it consistently, so simple visual schedules and ASL were the winners for us!

    Sign Language

    Should you use sign language with your child with autism?
    Using Sign Language helped to build Jacob’s vocabulary! https://www.facebook.com/1584731983/videos/1116777432916450/

    Sign language is another powerful tool. Teaching Jacob sign language not only helped him communicate his needs but also reduced his frustration. The physical act of signing gave him an alternative way to express himself when verbal communication was challenging. 🤟

    The act of signing allowed Jacob to speak the words we were signing without overwhelming him with language. We were speaking with our hands, and since he understood the signs, he was happy and avoided emotional meltdowns—a win-win! 3 ways American Sign Language helped my son with autism speak in short sentences?

    Social Stories

    Social stories have been instrumental in helping Jacob understand social cues and navigate different situations. These personalized short stories describe social situations and appropriate responses, giving Jacob a script to follow and easing his anxiety. 📖🧩

    We use social stories and videos for everything—going to the dentist, doctor, or vacation. Social stories, pictures, visual schedules, and movies are immediately understood by Jacob and are enjoyable for him!

    Independence and Communication in ASD

    For Jacob, every new way he learns to communicate opens up his world a little more, fostering greater independence and inclusion. 🌍💬

    Breaking Barriers with Communication

    Join us as we delve into the transformative power of communication for those on the autism spectrum. From AAC devices to sign language to social stories, there are a multitude of tools and techniques that can empower individuals with ASD to communicate effectively and have their voices heard. By exploring and implementing these strategies, we can help our children break barriers and thrive in their own unique ways. 🌈💪

    Challenges Faced by Individuals with ASD in Communication

    Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder often face a range of challenges when it comes to communication. These challenges can vary in severity and can significantly impact an individual’s ability to effectively express themselves and engage with others. 🌐🗣️

    Non-Verbal Communication

    One of the primary communication challenges for individuals with ASD is the difficulty in understanding and interpreting social cues and non-verbal communication. Individuals with ASD may struggle to recognize facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language, which are crucial components of effective communication. This can lead to misunderstandings and difficulties in initiating and maintaining conversations. 😕🤷‍♀️

    Example: For Jacob, this meant missing out on the subtleties of social interactions, often leading to frustration for both him and those trying to communicate with him.

    Engaging in Reciprocal Communication

    Another common challenge is the ability to engage in reciprocal communication. Individuals with ASD may have difficulty taking turns in a conversation, maintaining eye contact, and responding appropriately to social interactions. This can make it challenging for them to build and maintain meaningful relationships with others. 🔄👀

    Example: Jacob often found it hard to keep a conversation going, which sometimes made social interactions feel one-sided or awkward.

    Understanding Social Cues in Autism Spectrum Disorder

    Additionally, individuals with ASD may have difficulties in understanding and using language effectively. They may struggle with vocabulary, grammar, and the pragmatic aspects of language, such as using language in a socially appropriate manner. This can result in difficulties in expressing their thoughts, feelings, and needs, leading to frustration and isolation. 📚🗣️

    Example: Jacob’s language delays meant that even simple exchanges could be challenging, making it hard for him to convey his needs or participate fully in conversations.

    Sensory Processing Challenges

    Furthermore, individuals with ASD may experience sensory processing challenges that can impact their communication abilities. Certain sounds, textures, or environments may be overwhelming, making it difficult for them to focus on and engage in conversations. 🔊🚫

    Example: Jacob found noisy environments particularly challenging, which often caused him to withdraw from social settings.

    Communication Strategies for Individuals with ASD

    Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) face a range of communication challenges, but with the right strategies and support, they can develop and enhance their communication skills. Here are some effective communication strategies that have benefited Jacob and can help other individuals with ASD:

    Visual Supports

    A-little-planning-goes-a-long-way
    Jacob has sensory friendly clothes, school work in zippered bags and headphones!

    Incorporating visual aids, such as pictures, symbols, or schedules, can help individuals with ASD better understand and express themselves. Visual supports provide a clear and concrete way for them to communicate their needs, preferences, and ideas. 🖼️📊

    We use a visual schedule for Jacob to help him understand his daily activities and reduce anxiety. This method has significantly improved his ability to transition between tasks and communicate his needs. Here is good podcast on visual schedules and speech: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-slp-coffee-talk-57469512/episode/visual-supports-can-create-predictable-systems-101691070/

    Structured Routines and Predictability

    Establishing predictable routines and schedules can help individuals with ASD feel more secure and comfortable, which can, in turn, facilitate better communication. By providing a structured environment, individuals with ASD can better anticipate and navigate social interactions. 📅🔄

    Jacob thrives on routine. Having a consistent schedule helps him know what to expect each day, making it easier for him to engage in conversations and social activities. Beyond the Chaos: Scheduling 101 Class for Special Needs Children

    Simplifying Language

    Using clear, concise, and age-appropriate language can help individuals with ASD understand and respond more effectively. Avoiding complex sentences, idioms, and abstract concepts can make communication more accessible and meaningful. 🗣️✂️

    Example: We keep our language simple when communicating with Jacob. Short, direct sentences help him understand and respond better, reducing misunderstandings.

    Allowing Time for Processing

    Individuals with ASD may need more time to process information and formulate their responses. Providing them with ample time to respond, without interrupting or rushing them, can create a more comfortable and supportive communication environment. ⏳🕒

    When asking Jacob a question, we give him extra time to think and respond. This patience allows him to communicate more effectively and confidently.

    Reinforcing Positive Communication

    Positively reinforcing and acknowledging successful communication attempts, no matter how small, can help build confidence and encourage individuals with ASD to continue developing their communication skills. 🌟👍

    Positive reinforcement has been key in building Jacob’s confidence.

    Incorporating Interests and Passions

    Engaging individuals with ASD in conversations about their interests can help them feel more motivated to communicate. Look for ways to provide opportunities for them to share their unique perspectives and experiences. 🎨🚀

    Jacob loves talking about movies and music. Incorporating these topics into our conversations keeps him engaged and eager to communicate.

    Modeling Appropriate Communication

    Demonstrating and modeling appropriate social and communication skills can help individuals with ASD learn and practice these skills in a supportive environment. 📚👨‍🏫

    We use social stories for Jacob, and model taking turns in conversation and using polite language. He prefers movie quotes!

    Empowering Communication for All

    By implementing these communication strategies, individuals with ASD can develop the skills and confidence needed to express themselves 🌟🗣️

    Want more? We are dedicated to sharing our journey and strategies to help other parents navigate the complexities of autism. Download the ebook:👇  https://educatingjacob.myflodesk.com/tfgvkumbkg

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  • Blog, schedules

    Memorial Day Weekend Fun but your child with autism doesn’t do transitions!

    Ah, Memorial Day weekend—the promise of family, relaxation, and endless fun! While some are beach-bound, I’m embracing the staycation vibes (thanks, budget!). But here’s the twist: my son Jacob adores the beach, yet transitions? Not his forte. When you have a child with autism who doesn’t do transitions, you need help.

    So, how do we tackle this? Back in the day, it was all about car bags—packed with books, coloring books, and a trusty portable DVD player for those marathon car rides. Let’s dive into how to navigate transitions with humor, practicality, and maybe a sprinkle of beach magic for good measure. 🏖️

    Child With Autism 

    Transition activities can be a real game-changer when it comes to planning outings with your child with autism. Take, for instance, our beach trips. We’d start prepping the day before, chatting excitedly about the sandy shores and gathering up clothes and toys. Jacob used to love the whole packing ordeal—until it morphed into a 5-minute cycle of asking “beach?” on repeat until we actually arrived at the beach house. 🏖️

    Ah, the joys of parenting a child with autism—it’s like being on a rollercoaster ride where you’re never quite sure if you’re going up or down! But hey, every hiccup is a learning experience, right? The first time is always the toughest, so brace yourself for a bit of turbulence. But fear not, fellow parents, because we’ve got a few tricks up our sleeves.

    Visual Schedule For Child With Autism

    Visual aids are your new best friend. Seriously, they’re like magic potions that can turn chaos into calm faster than you can say “beach day.” Create simple visuals that signal the transition—whether it’s a picture of the beach, a packed bag, or even just hopping in the car after putting on beach shorts. Anything to give your child a visual roadmap of what’s to come.

    Parents who homeschool might want to checkout my previous posts on schedules:3 Ways Jacob’s Monthly Calendar and Daily Schedule Work on Autism Island!

    Sensory Toys For Autism

    And hey, why not make it fun while you’re at it? Turn packing into a game, complete with silly songs and maybe even a dance-off or two. The more enjoyable you can make the transition, the smoother it’ll be for everyone involved. Plus, who doesn’t love a little impromptu dance party, am I right? 💃

    Children with autism often have sensory needs that fidgets and the right clothes can help calm. Figure out what works best for your child, having a plan and creating a great environment will calm the chaos.

    Social Stories For Autism

    Ah, the power of social stories and videos—the secret weapons in our arsenal of autism parenting hacks! 📚🎥 When it comes to prepping Jake for a big adventure like the beach, these tools are absolute lifesavers. 

    Social stories are great for all children with autism but if you’re homeschooling it is amazing here is an article you might like on homeschooling. https://www.yellowbusaba.com/post/homeschooling-a-child-with-autism

    Storybooks For Teaching

    Jake eagerly flipping through a storybook filled with colorful illustrations of sandy beaches and crashing waves, his excitement building with each turn of the page. 🌊 Or better yet, him glued to the screen, watching a video montage of all the fun activities we have in store for our beach day. Talk about anticipation at its finest!

    But here’s the best part: these social stories and videos aren’t just one-time wonders. Oh no, they’re like the gift that keeps on giving. We can incorporate them into Jake’s schoolwork for the week leading up to our beach trip, turning anticipation into a full-blown educational experience. 📝 And hey, who says learning can’t be fun?

    And let’s not forget about getting creative! Whether it’s crafting our own personalized social stories or shooting a DIY video showcasing all the beach essentials, the possibilities are endless. So grab your phone, gather up some props, and let your imagination run wild! 🎬

    Autism Trip Checklist:

    1: Transition activities- when planning outings with your child who struggles with transitions. Take our beach trips, for example. Starting preparations the day before, we chat excitedly about the sandy shores and gather clothes and toys.  🏖️

    2: Visual Schedules- these guide your child with autism through transitions. Visual aids are essential for smoother transitions. Create simple visuals—a picture of the beach, a packed bag, or hopping in the car—to give your child a visual roadmap of what’s to come.

    3; Sensory Toys- making transitions fun for children with autism.Turn packing into a fun game with silly songs and maybe even a dance-off. The more enjoyable the transition, the smoother it’ll be for everyone involved. 💃

    4: Social Stories for Autism- prepare your child for adventures. Social stories and videos are lifesavers for prepping your child, like Jake, for big adventures like the beach. Incorporate them into your child’s schoolwork for an educational and anticipatory experience. Everyone today video on their phone, use it!

    5: Engage Your Child with Autism- from storybooks for teaching, with colorful illustrations of sandy beaches to videos and fidgets include them all! Social stories and videos are gifts that keep on giving. Incorporate them into your child’s schoolwork for an educational and anticipatory experience. Create Hype!!

    Autism travel checklist
    Grab some transition items and make them fun!
    Tips for Parents Of Children With Autism

    Mastering transitions with creativity! Craft personalized social stories or shoot DIY videos showcasing beach essentials. With creativity and the right tools, daunting transitions can become exciting adventures.

    Finding Joy In Parenting A Child With Autism

    Here’s to embracing the chaos, finding joy in the journey, and making memories that last a lifetime. After all, isn’t that what parenting is all about? Take a moment to assess the chaos, jot down where things are falling apart, and then get scrappy and creative. With a solid plan and structure, you’ll find your way through! 🚀

    So there you have it, folks—our tried and true formula for mastering transitions like a boss. With a little help from social stories, videos, and a healthy dose of creativity, we can turn even the most daunting transitions into exciting adventures. #autismchallenges🧩

    Want more? Download my free guide: https://app.flodesk.com/emails

    Educating Jacob, free guide
    Click the link and download the free guide!

     

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  • Blog, schedules

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

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

    Hands on Mom

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

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

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

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

     

    Autism Mom Coach

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

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

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

     

    Educating Jacob

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

     

    Autism meltdowns in public

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

     

    Autism Mom Stress

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

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

     

    Parent Tag Team

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

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

     

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

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

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

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

    Creating an Environment for Success

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

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

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

     

    Educator Insights

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

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

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

    Download my free guide!: https://educatingjacob.myflodesk.com/o01di34gwl

     

     

     

     

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  • Blog, schedules

    How Jacob has success daily without anxiety. #autismchallenges

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

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

    Success Daily without Anxiety

     

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

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

    Success without anxiety daily

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

    Chaos and Confusion

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

     

    Jacobs-activities-lined-the-couch-with-an-all-done-bin-on-the-floor
    Jacob’s activities lined the couch with an all done bin on the floor!

    The Power of Schedules

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

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

    Celebrating Every Victory

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

     

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

    Simplifying the Classroom Environment

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

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

    Simple Visuals

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

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

    Celebrate Successes no matter how small

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

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

    Go download my free guide for more:https://educatingjacob.myflodesk.com/o01di34gwl

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