autism support

  • Blog, schedules

    3 Ways Jacob’s Monthly Calendar and Daily Schedule Work on Autism Island!

    Jacob’s Monthly Calendar: Autism Island Daily Schedule

    Jacob’s monthly calendar is like a crystal ball, but instead of predicting the future, it prepares him for it. On Autism Island the daily schedule is essential! This calendar isn’t your ordinary one; it’s a lifeline for Jacob, especially when it comes to navigating the twists and turns of daily life on Autism Island.

    The Holiday Countdown:

    Most people use their calendars to mark birthdays and holidays, but for Jacob, it’s a countdown. He eagerly anticipates those special days, and his calendar helps him keep track. When he sees a circled date approaching, he knows it’s time for something exciting.

    Beyond the Week:

    Unlike his weekly schedule, which is all about the here and now, the monthly calendar zooms out. It gives Jacob a glimpse of upcoming events that aren’t part of his daily schedule or weekly routine. Take, for example, doctor’s appointments. With a quick glance, he can see when they’re scheduled, allowing him to prepare for any changes to his regular routine.

    Personal Maintenance:

    doctor's office Jacob's ingrown toenail
    Jacob’s big toe became infected due to picking at skin around toenail that was bothering him.

    We all have those tasks that pop up irregularly but can’t be ignored. For Jacob, it’s the dreaded manicure and pedicure sessions. While it may seem trivial, these appointments are essential. For him, overgrown nails trigger sensory sensitivities, leading to nail and skin picking, which can ultimately result in ingrown toenails. Yikes! So, his calendar reminds us to keep those nails in check.

    I don’t need to put my manicure and pedicure on a calendar because I just take care of it when I feel like taking care of it. But for Jacob, if he starts picking at a nail because it is all of a sudden annoying him we have a big problem. That’s where having a schedule that puts item of regular maintenance down.

    Check out this, our dream residential/day program geared to autism: https://islandautism.org/about-us/island-autism-center /

    Pills and Prevention:

    Managing epilepsy is no small feat. Jacob has a medication regimen that’s crucial for seizure control. His trusty pillbox helps, but it’s his calendar that ensures we never run out of meds. It serves as a reminder to order and refill prescriptions promptly, sparing us any seizure-related adventures. It also reminds me to fill his weekly pill box so it’s ready and accessible to Jacob.

    Jacob’s Weekly Schedule: The Comfort of Routine

    Now, let’s dive into Jacob’s weekly schedule. To many, it might seem monotonous, but for Jacob, it’s a source of comfort and happiness.

    Groundhog Days:
    For Jacob, the consistency of his daily routine brings him a sense of calm.
    For Jacob, the consistency of his daily routine brings him a sense of calm.

    Imagine waking up to a world that’s slightly different every day. Sounds exhausting, right? For Jacob, the consistency of his daily routine brings him a sense of calm. His days follow a structured pattern, from breakfast to meds, schoolwork to chores, and everything in between. Autism mom support, what happens when being a hands on doesn’t stop at 18?

    Mom’s Decision Fatigue:

    As a mom, teacher, and wife, I wear many hats. My daily life can be a juggling act. Jacob’s schedule isn’t just his lifeline; it’s mine too. The more organized I am, the smoother things run for the whole family.

    Autism Island daily schedule, we have so much to keep track of that a schedule is needed to calm the chaos!
    All the different hats we wear!

    So, while Jacob’s calendar and weekly schedule might seem unusual to some, they are the glue that holds our lives together here on Autism Island. They provide predictability, reduce anxiety, and ensure we’re prepared for whatever adventures come our way. Educating Jacob: The Power of Communication in Autism Spectrum Disorder

    Jacob’s monthly and daily schedules work for him:

    1.  Long-Range Planning: Jacob’s monthly calendar helps him anticipate and prepare for longer-term changes and events, such as holidays, birthdays, and doctor’s appointments. It provides him with a visual overview of upcoming activities and transitions, reducing anxiety associated with unexpected changes.

    2. Routine and Predictability: Jacob’s weekly schedule maintains a consistent daily routine, including tasks like breakfast, schoolwork, chores, and free time. This routine brings him comfort and stability, reducing stress and anxiety. It also helps his family manage their busy lives effectively.

    3. Support for Medication and Health Needs: The calendars serve as reminders for essential tasks like medication management. They ensure that Jacob’s epilepsy medication is refilled on time, preventing the risk of seizures. Additionally, the schedule helps Jacob with sensory sensitivities, ensuring his nail care, which can be challenging due to his condition, is not overlooked.

    Whether you’re navigating Autism Island or just looking for ways to bring more structure into your family’s life, take a page from Jacob’s book. Embrace the power of planning, and you might find that a well-structured calendar and routine can be your best allies. Tag us on Facebook or Instagram using #AutismParenting, #SpecialNeedsSuccess, or #MonthlyCalendarMagic

    Want more? Download my ebook and follow us on Social Media! https://educatingjacob.myflodesk.com/tfgvkumbkg

    Read More

  • 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

    Read More

  • Uncategorized

    3 Ways to Help Your Child with Autism Enjoy Christmas Without Meltdowns and Anxiety!

    Holiday tips for a child with autism
    #parentingautism #childwithautism

    Ho, Ho, Hold on to Your Sanity: Autism-Proofing Your Christmas

    Picture this: twinkling lights, jingling bells, and the joyful sound of kids playing… until a meltdown strikes. Yep, the holidays can be an emotional rollercoaster for both parents when you have a child with autism. But fear not, we’ve got three sleigh-loads of tips to help your child with autism enjoy Christmas without the meltdowns and anxiety!

    Merry Christmas, a child with autism
    Enjoy Christmas and all holidays by planning ahead!

    Have a Schedule: Santa’s Secret to Smooth Sailing

    You know how adults suffer from decision fatigue? Well, imagine that, but for kids with autism. Their processing delays, combined with other learning disabilities, make transitions and language complex terrain. So, let’s simplify the journey.

    Jacob’s schedule and calendar are his North Star, guiding him through the holiday hustle and bustle. Just like we rely on our phones and apps to navigate life, he uses his schedule to keep the chaos at bay.

    When he knows what’s on the agenda, it’s like a backstage pass to his day. No need for lengthy explanations or negotiations; it’s all right there, mapped out. So, when you ask him to do something, he’s ready to roll because he’s got the schedule to back him up.

    Remember, the schedule doesn’t have to be rocket science. Keep it straightforward, make changes as needed, and as long as he can see it, he’ll have less anxiety about the ever-changing holiday plans. It’s a win-win for everyone in the family!

    Christmas photo showing Jacob with headphones on in restaurant to ease noise.
    The headphones helped Jacob in a noisy restaurant.

    Adjust Your Expectations and Their Environment: ‘Tis the Season for Sensory-Friendly Fun”

    Flashback to when our firstborn, Nicholas, was little. We could conquer family gatherings, holiday shows, and shopping marathons with ease. Then, Jacob entered the scene, and suddenly, our holiday game plan needed some serious adjustments.

    Big family events, loud shows, and crowded malls? Not exactly Jacob’s cup of cocoa. Sensory overload and anxiety were always lurking. So, we adapted our environment to fit his needs and ease his holiday stress.

    Seek out sensory-friendly movie screenings and showtimes; they’re a game-changer for families like ours. Prepping ahead of time by watching videos or tutorials related to upcoming activities helps a child with autism feel more at ease. Check out our blog post on [preparing for doctor visits]https://educatingjacob.com/child-on-the-autism-spectrum-navigate-doctor-visits/ for a crash course in anticipatory planning.

    Make short videos or show clips of what to expect. And remember to bring the holiday cheer in your bag of tricks: headphones, earplugs, snacks, and sensory fidgets can be a sanity-saver. We always pack a travel kit with books, a tablet, snacks, and whatever else brings comfort.

    In a nutshell, be prepared for anything. And that means anything!

    We wish you a Merry Christmas
    #ChristmasWithAutism #childwithautism

    Have Fun and Keep It Simple: Savoring the Season

    Guess what? You can still have a holly, jolly Christmas even if you have a  child with autism. You just need to tweak the festivities to suit their comfort zone.

    Go see those dazzling Christmas lights, but be armed with a travel bag of sensory items, snacks, tablets, and headphones. This way, you’re ready for whatever Santa throws your way.

    It’s okay to leave your child out of some holiday activities if it’s not their cup of eggnog. Let them enjoy their comfy environment with their favorite things while you dash through the snow of holiday fun.

    Remember, the most important thing is to savor the season, make memories, and cherish the moments, even if they come with a sprinkle of chaos. Because in the end, it’s all part of your unique, heartwarming, and occasionally hilarious Christmas story. 🎄❄️🌟

    Read More

  • Uncategorized

    Feeling isolated, broke, and chaos within the family? You’re not alone!

    Autism Island: 

    Autism Island
    Autism Island, families feel like they are on an isolated island.

    Welcome to Autism Island! Feeling like you’re stranded here? Don’t worry, you’re in good company. It’s a place of isolation, occasional chaos, and surprise financial storms. But hey, we’ve got humor and camaraderie to navigate these turbulent seas of parenting a child with autism.

    Navigating the Island of Isolation:

    Sunday after church visits from friends!
    Sundays after church, time with friends and silly string!

    Ever had that moment when your child plays solo with no friends in sight? Yeah, we’ve all been there. Back in the day, I had these superhero friends who’d drop by after church. Kids played, and Jacob did his solo thing. Fond memories, but boy, do I get the isolation part.

    Now that all the kids are grown, there’s no one coming over after church to eat lunch and hang out. Going out with our friends are tag team matches between my husband and I.

    A Night on the Town? Easier Said Than Done:

    Smiles_family_fun
    Pic’s of the family over the years during summer!

    Thinking of a night out with friends or a family trip? Sounds easy, right? Well, toss autism into the mix, and it’s like embarking on a complex mission. New places, new routines – it’s practically a city of anxiety. And family gatherings? More like family stress-fests, with constant mental scanning for potential meltdowns or hidden dangers.

    Financial Rollercoaster:

    Financial Worries!
    Financial Worries!

    Now, here’s the sneaky monster – the cost. Therapies, treatments, some not even approved. Insurance? Nope, they just shrugged and left us drowning in bills. I still remember that bloodwork bill that could’ve bought a small car. We couldn’t afford it. Thank heavens for family pitching in!

    P.S. Insurance only covered speech therapy initially, and even that had co-pays. The struggle was real.

    Sharing the Load:

    Ever felt guilty about turning down invites? Let’s stop that nonsense! You’re not alone in the tag-team hustle with your partner. I mean, who wouldn’t love to hit the movies or kick back? But if it’s just not feasible, it’s not. We’ve all been there. Set some boundaries, drop that guilt, and grab a good book, run a soothing bath, or rent a hilarious comedy. You deserve it!

    Beach Trips and “Me” Monsters:
    Family Vacation!
    Family Vacation!

    Family vacations? Sure, we’ve done those. But it’s no leisurely stroll on the beach; it’s more like a 2.5-hour “Are we there yet?” chorus. And when you finally hit the sand, brace yourself for the inflatable alligator incident. Yep, the life of an autism parent is a unique adventure. Ask Granny Jane; she’ll regale you with tales of the inflatable alligator incident. Jake didn’t have one the first year, but guess who got him one the second year?

    The Support Dilemma:

    Respite care – sounds fantastic, right? Well, finding someone you trust, who truly understands your child’s unique needs, is like hunting for treasure. Autistic kids can’t always spill the beans on what happens when you’re not around. The fear of mistreatment is a real concern. Good workers are like hidden gems, and trust is hard-won. We even added cameras at home to ease our minds and check in on Jacob.

    The Uncharted Territory of Autism Parenting:

    So, here I am, in a season where most parents are battling empty nest syndrome. Not me, and guess what? I’m absolutely fine with it. My child needs me. Leaving him alone all day isn’t safe, even though he probably won’t set the house on fire. But you see, he can’t tell friends from foes.

    To all my fellow autism navigators, let’s embrace the chaos, share a laugh about those “me” monsters, and remember, you’re not alone. We’re all on this wild, unpredictable autism island together. We’ll weather the storms and cheer for the small victories. If you need help with schedules check out this post: https://educatingjacob.com/how-using-schedules-can-change-your-childs-life/ Keep sailing, my friends! 🌊⚓🏝️

    Read More