#AutismAwareness

  • Blog, schedules

    How I take a Target $3 find and use for my autistic childs schedule!

    You-do-not-need-a-degree-to-teach-your-child
    You do not need a degree to teach your child with autism!

    Budget-Friendly Educational Tools

    Finding affordable and effective educational tools for autistic children can be a challenge, but as a special education teacher, I know where to look! The first few rows of products inside the door have super cute and cheap educational and fun items—puzzles, coloring books, sensory items, etc. As a broke teacher, I utilize many different shopping strategies to fill my classroom with fun and engaging items. 🛒📚

    The Hunt for Affordable Materials

    I’m always on the lookout for something that can be turned into an educational tool for Jacob’s daily/weekly schedule. This week, I found some amazing items that can be used for younger children. Since the prices for these items were only $3, I purchased more than one to make them into something more hands-on and engaging. 🎯🧩

    Budget-Friendly Finds

    Transforming these budget-friendly finds into effective educational tools for Jacob’s schedule is not only cost-efficient but also incredibly rewarding. It allows me to create personalized learning aids that cater specifically to Jacob’s needs and interests. 🛠️🌟

    Turning Budget Finds into Educational Activities

    I bought two sets of  Level 1 Readers that were a 2-book set and used one set to cut up and use pictures and sight words to be laminated. The laminated pieces can now be matched to the book the child is reading. This creates an interactive experience while reading the book! 📚✨

    See the video below: link to watch 👇 on YouTube https://youtu.be/YxBFpxHMumo?si=3Vab0VP4q2Xmse5i

    Interactive ABC Puzzles

    I also purchased some ABC puzzles that are plastic interlocking building blocks. You can purchase an upper case and lower case of the ABCs and match the lower to upper case in the schedule. 🧩🔤

    Watch the video: link to watch 👇 on YouTube https://youtu.be/HJm3xbfpIP0?si=HNAtSDGMRFiVPYcx

    Start Where Your Child Is

    These activities are used for younger children, and I used similar activities when Jacob was younger. Always start where your child is, no matter the age. Once your child has done the activity and understands what you are looking for, it can be added to the child’s daily independent work. 🌟🧒

    Visual Schedules and Consistency

    Creating schedules and activities that are easy to understand without a lot of language is crucial for the success of children with autism. Visual schedules provide a clear, predictable routine that helps reduce anxiety and build independence. When Jacob was younger, we relied heavily on visual aids and consistent routines to help him understand his day-to-day activities. Create an autism friendly summer schedule for your child!

    Benefits of Visual Schedules:

    – Reduces Anxiety: Knowing what to expect helps children with autism feel more secure and less anxious. Visual schedules provide a roadmap of their day, which can be incredibly calming. 🗓️✨

    – Builds Independence: Visual schedules enable children to follow routines on their own, fostering a sense of independence. Jacob learned to manage his tasks without constant verbal reminders, which boosted his confidence. Why teach chores for children with autism, how a schedule helps! 🌟🧩

    – Enhances Understanding: Many children with autism are visual learners. By using pictures and symbols, visual schedules cater to their strengths and improve their ability to grasp and follow routines. 📸🧠

    – Improves Communication: Visual schedules can bridge the communication gap for non-verbal or minimally verbal children. They offer a way for children to understand and express their daily activities without relying solely on spoken language. 🗣️🔇

    The Power of Consistency
    Jacob has a zippered work bag labeled for each day of the week.
    Jacob has a zippered work bag labeled for each day of the week.

    Consistency is key when implementing visual schedules and activities for children with autism. It helps create a stable environment where children know what to expect, reducing the likelihood of meltdowns and behavioral issues.

    – Routine: Stick to a regular routine as much as possible. Using educational tools for autistic children creates engaging activities. Jacob thrived when his days followed a predictable pattern, allowing him to anticipate what was coming next. Something for teachers: https://www.kodable.com/learn/free-technology-tools-for-elementary-teachers🔄🕒

    – Repetition: Repeated exposure to the same activities and tasks helps reinforce learning. Over time, Jacob became proficient in his chores and daily activities because they were consistently part of his routine. 🔁📚

    – Clear Expectations: Consistency in rules and expectations helps children understand what is required of them. When Jacob knew exactly what was expected, he could complete his tasks with confidence. ✅🏅

    Today’s Tip and Strategy

    Utilizing budget-friendly educational tools for autistic children creates activities that do not need a lot of language. Incorporating them into visual schedules can significantly impact a child with autism’s ability to learn and thrive. The easy-to-understand activities, combined with consistency, allow parents to help their children develop essential life skills, reduce anxiety, and foster independence, which is our main goal.

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

    📅Schedule a discovery call👉🏼 go to my contact page on the website https://educatingjacob.com/contact/

    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! 💙 

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

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  • Blog, schedules

    How Jacob’s Autism Makes Birthday Celebrations Unique on Autism Island.

    Happy Birthday! Autism and Birthdays
    Birthdays may look a little different on Autism Island!

    Autism And Birthday Celebrations

    Life on Autism Island is a journey filled with its own set of adventures and challenges, even if it’s birthday celebrations! If you’ve been following my blog on Educating Jacob, you already know that living on Autism Island means embracing a world where every experience is as unique as the individuals who live here. Birthdays, in particular, stand out as special occasions that are celebrated differently from the mainstream yet are filled with love, laughter, and a touch of unpredictability. Here’s another post you can check out: https://hiblogimdad.com/2018/03/19/does-he-know-its-his-birthday/

    Autism Birthday and Superman!
    Jacob loves Superman!

    A Unique Autism Birthday Celebration 🎉

    Jacob’s birthdays are a testament to how our family has adapted to the beautiful complexities of autism. Like any other child, Jacob eagerly anticipates his birthday. He loves the idea of having a party, but, as many autism parents can relate, traditional celebrations often don’t fit the mold.

    For instance, singing “Happy Birthday” is a ritual that comes with its own set of challenges. 🎶 While the song brings joy to many, for Jacob, it triggers a sensory overload that has him plugging his ears and pacing until it’s over. Despite this, he often wears a smile that warms my heart. 😊 It’s a reminder that he understands the specialness of the moment, even if he experiences it differently. 3 Ways Jacob’s Monthly Calendar and Daily Schedule Work on Autism Island!

    Navigating Sensory Issues 🌟

    Birthday parties often come with sensory challenges for children on the autism spectrum. Here’s how we address some of these issues to ensure Jacob has a joyful experience:

    1. Noise Sensitivity 🎵:
      • Problem: Loud noises like singing, clapping, or party horns can be overwhelming.
      • Solution: We use noise-canceling headphones to help Jacob manage the noise levels. Additionally, we keep the volume low and opt for soft music or nature sounds in the background.
    2. Visual Overstimulation 🎈:
      • Problem: Bright lights and busy decorations can be too much for Jacob.
      • Solution: We choose calming color schemes and avoid flashing lights. Gentle, natural lighting or soft fairy lights work wonders in creating a peaceful ambiance.
    3. Tactile Sensitivities 🎂:
      • Problem: Certain textures in food or decorations might be uncomfortable.
      • Solution: We involve Jacob in choosing party items. From the texture of the cake icing to the fabric of his clothes, we ensure everything feels just right for him.
    4. Unpredictable Situations ⏰:
      • Problem: Surprises or unexpected changes can be unsettling.
      • Solution: We prepare a visual schedule or a simple checklist so Jacob knows what to expect throughout the day. Having a “quiet corner” where he can retreat if things get overwhelming is also a great strategy.

    The Magic of a “Surprise Birthday” 🎁

    Jacob once told me he wanted a “surprise birthday.” It’s these little requests that showcase his unique perspective and make every celebration an adventure. Jacob often draws inspiration from movies or cartoons, which means every year brings a new theme that reflects his current interests.

    One year, it might be a superhero-themed celebration inspired by his favorite animated movie. 🦸‍♂️ The next, it might be something as whimsical as a cartoon character who’s captured his heart. 🦄 These themes make each birthday feel like a new chapter in our Autism Island adventure.

    Evolving Traditions 🥳

    When Jacob was younger, planning birthday parties was a bit easier. We invited close friends and family, and it felt more like a traditional celebration. However, as he’s grown older, the dynamics have changed. Those childhood friends who once joined our celebrations have moved on to lead their adult lives, and Jacob’s social circle has shifted.

    But this doesn’t stop us from creating memorable birthday and other celebrations. We’ve learned to adapt and make the most of what we have. Family dinners, decorations, and special movie nights have become our go-to traditions. 🍿 It’s about creating an environment that Jacob loves and feels comfortable in, which is often a quieter, more intimate gathering. 

    Life on Autism Island 🌍

    Living on Autism Island can sometimes feel isolating. It’s not just about being different from the rest of the world; it’s about embracing those differences and making them work for us. But please don’t mistake this for a sob story. We’re not on the brink of despair; rather, we’re thriving. Autism Awareness happened in April? Jacob’s Autism Education and schedule. 

    Transforming-Chaos-into-Calm-with-Autism-Awareness
    Chaos to CALM!

    Want more? Download our free guide: https://educatingjacob.myflodesk.com/tfgvkumbkg

     

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  • Blog, schedules

    4 Things I Wish I Would Have Known After Getting the Autism Diagnosis

    4-Things-I-Wish-I-Would-Have-Known-After-Getting-the-Autism-Diagnosis
    We all need help and support on this autism journey.

    Autism Diagnosis Tips for Parents

    When I first heard the words “autism diagnosis” for Jacob, my world spun into chaos. I felt like I was fumbling through a fog, unsure of what to do or where to turn. I’m here to share autism diagnosis tips for parents. If you’re reading this, you’re likely on a similar journey, and I want to share four crucial lessons I’ve learned along the way. These strategies have been a beacon of hope and structure for our family, and I hope they can guide you too.

    Autism Tips for Parents Visual Schedules

    What I Wish I Knew:
    Visual schedules are a game-changer for children with autism. This is my big tip for parents getting an autism diagnosis.They provide structure and predictability, helping your child understand what to expect and when.📅 

    Why It’s Important:

    – Reduces Anxiety: Knowing what comes next helps your child feel more secure. For Jacob, having a clear visual schedule transformed his daily experience from chaos to calm. 🧘‍♂️

    – Improves Transition: Visual schedules make it easier for your child to move from one activity to another without meltdowns. Transitions became smoother for Jacob once we implemented this strategy. 🚦

    – Encourages Independence: Your child can learn to follow routines independently. Jacob learned to manage his own day, which boosted his confidence and autonomy. 🏆

    How to Implement:

    – Use images, symbols, or photos to create a daily schedule.
    – Keep it simple and consistent, especially at the beginning.
    – Gradually introduce more complex tasks as your child becomes comfortable.

    Tip: Start with a morning routine and build from there. Consistency is key!

     

    Build a Strong Support Network 👪

    What I Wish I Knew:
    You’re not in this alone! My next autism diagnosis tip for parents! Building a support network can make a huge difference for you and your child.

    Why It’s Important:

    – Emotional Support: Connect with other parents who understand your journey. This sense of community can be incredibly comforting. 🤝

    – Resource Sharing: Learn from others’ experiences and get advice on therapies and services. Other parents often have insights and tips that can be invaluable. 💡

    – Community Connection: Create a sense of belonging for your child and family. Having a support network helps everyone feel less isolated. 🌍

    How to Implement:

    – Join local and online autism support groups.
    – Connect with professionals who specialize in autism.
    – Reach out to family and friends for support.

    Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Support is a powerful tool!

     

    Prioritize Sensory-Friendly Environments 🧩

    What I Wish I Knew:
    Next, on my list of autism diagnosis tips for parents that battle sensory issues. Children with autism often have unique sensory needs. Creating a sensory-friendly environment can enhance your child’s comfort and ability to learn.

    Why It’s Important:

    – Enhances Focus: Reduces sensory overload, allowing your child to concentrate better. This was crucial for Jacob, who could become overwhelmed by certain stimuli. 🎯

    – Promotes Calmness: A calming environment helps regulate emotions and behavior. A peaceful setting can prevent or de-escalate potential meltdowns. 🌿

    – Supports Development: Sensory-friendly spaces can aid in learning and growth. Jacob thrived in an environment tailored to his sensory needs. 🌱

    How to Implement:

    – Identify your child’s sensory triggers and preferences.
    – Adjust lighting, noise, and textures in your home to suit your child’s needs.
    – Create a designated calm-down area with sensory tools and toys.

    Tip: A simple sensory bin or fidget toy can work wonders for self-regulation!

     

    Learn and Adapt with Your Child 📚
    Finding-your-rhythm-after-an-autism-diagnosis-is-possible
    Consistency and confidence will come with action! Always learning.

    What I Wish I Knew:
    Every child with autism is unique, and so is their journey. Be prepared to learn and adapt as you discover what works best for your child. Read  👉🏼Autism Diagnosis: My Home Was in Chaos and I Felt Like a Terrible Mom!

    Why It’s Important:

    – Individualized Learning: No one-size-fits-all approach exists. Each child’s needs and strengths are different. Jacob taught us that flexibility and adaptation were key. 🔍

    – Continuous Growth: Your child will change and grow, and your strategies should evolve too. Stay open to new methods and insights. 🌈

    – Parental Empowerment: As you learn alongside your child, you’ll become more empowered and confident in your parenting skills. 💪

    How to Implement:

    – Stay informed about autism research and therapies.
    – Be open to trying new strategies and tools.
    – Embrace the journey and celebrate the unique qualities of your child.

    Tip: Keep a journal to track your child’s progress and reflect on your own growth as a parent. Celebrate your wins too!

     

    Applying the CALM Framework to Our Journey

    When Jacob was diagnosed, we developed our CALM framework to guide us through the challenges:

    1. Consistent Action Forward (C)
    – Build routines and stick to them. Consistency helps create a stable environment that reduces anxiety.

    2. Always Celebrate Wins (A)
    – Acknowledge every success, no matter how small. Celebrating milestones fosters a positive atmosphere.

    3. Learning to Create Schedules (L)
    – Use visual schedules to bring peace and order. They help your child understand their day and reduce stress.

    4. Mindset Matters (M)
    – Embrace the journey with a positive outlook. Remember, you are your child’s greatest advocate. How does mindset change things when raising a child with autism? 🧩

    CALM-frameworks-for-educatingjacob.com
    CALM over Chaos and frustration!
    Final Thoughts 🌟

    Last, on my list of autism diagnosis tips for parents Raising a child with autism is a journey filled with challenges and triumphs. By applying the CALM framework—Consistent Action, Always Celebrate Wins, Learning to Create Schedules, and Mindset—you can create a nurturing environment where your child can thrive. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Together, we can build a brighter future for our children. 💙 Here’s a blog post about an adult diagnosis: https://www.duchessofneverland.com/home/autism-diagnosis

    Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s support each other on this journey! 📢💬 Want more info, download the ebook! https://educatingjacob.myflodesk.com/tfgvkumbkg

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  • Blog, schedules

    Autism Awareness happened in April? Jacob’s Autism Education and schedule.

    Autism Awareness Happened in April?

    Autism Journey
    Follow our journey so you can learn from our mistakes and success’s!

    In a world where understanding and acceptance are vital, autism awareness isn’t just for April. Autism, a complex neurological condition, affects millions of individuals globally. Education empowers individuals with autism to develop their full potential by providing them with the necessary tools and skills to navigate the world. Parents do not have to have a specialized degree to help their child succeed! 🌟

    By embracing autism awareness and autism education, we create an inclusive society that celebrates diversity and fosters empathy. It enables educators, parents, and communities to provide appropriate support and intervention, enhancing the quality of life for individuals with autism.🧩

     

    Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) 📚

    Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurological condition affecting communication, interaction, and information processing. The spectrum means symptoms can vary widely among individuals. Some may have significant communication challenges, while others excel in specific areas like math or music.

     

    Jacob, my son, has faced significant challenges with communication and social interactions due to his autism. However, through tailored educational strategies, he’s made incredible progress in expressing himself and engaging with others.

    Sensory Processing Differences 🌈

    One of the key features of autism is the way individuals process sensory information. Many individuals with autism are either hyper-sensitive or hypo-sensitive to certain stimuli, such as sounds, textures, or lights. This can lead to sensory overload, which can be overwhelming and distressing. Understanding the sensory processing differences experienced by individuals with autism is crucial in providing them with the support and accommodations they need to thrive.Help! 3 Ways a schedule can help sensory issues and communication barriers? #Autism Challenges🧩

    Social Interaction and Relationships 🤝
    Create Social Interaction and Relationships for your child with autism🤝
    Create Social Interaction and Relationships for your child with autism🤝

    Another important aspect of autism is the way individuals on the spectrum approach social interactions and relationships. Jacob, for example, struggles with understanding social cues, reading facial expressions, and engaging in back-and-forth conversations. This leads to challenges in forming and maintaining friendships and relationships. However, it’s important to recognize that individuals with autism have a unique perspective on the world and can often offer valuable insights and contributions to their communities.

    Common Misconceptions About Autism ❌

    One of the most common misconceptions about autism is that it is a mental illness or a sign of intellectual disability. In reality, autism is a neurological condition that affects how an individual processes information and interacts with the world. Many individuals with autism have average or above-average intelligence, and their unique way of thinking can be a valuable asset.

     

    The Impact of Education on Autism Awareness 🎓

     

    Education plays a crucial role in unlocking the potential of individuals with autism. Accurate information and resources can dispel myths, combat stigma, and empower those with autism to reach their full potential. Educators, parents, and community members can better support individuals with autism by understanding their unique sensory needs, communication styles, and social challenges. The best schoolwork jobs and schedules for students at home in 2023!

    As a teacher who has a son on the autism spectrum, this would rally support to others in school who had difficulties. My students would come and tell me how they helped a student or informed another teacher of a student who was struggling because of their autism. They would then offer help or explain what they thought was wrong and how the teacher could help. It was amazing!

    For Jacob, education has been transformative. His visual schedules and structured routines have helped him understand his daily activities, reducing anxiety and improving his ability to transition between tasks.

    Promoting Autism Awareness in Schools 🏫

    Schools play a critical role in promoting autism awareness and creating inclusive environments for students with autism. By integrating autism education into the curriculum, schools can empower students to understand and appreciate the diversity of human experiences, including those of individuals with autism.

    Autism-Specific Training for Educators 🎓
    Autism-Specific Training for Educators 🎓
    We need trainings that will give hands on activities for students! (think visual schedules and work activites)

    One effective way to promote autism awareness in schools is through the implementation of autism-specific training and professional development programs for educators. These programs can equip teachers with the knowledge and strategies they need to create inclusive classrooms that cater to the unique needs of students with autism. This includes learning about effective teaching methods, such as visual supports, structured schedules, and sensory-friendly environments, as well as strategies for fostering social-emotional learning and positive behavior support. Check out this post: 👉 https://www.healthline.com/health/visual-schedule-autism

    Student-Led Initiatives and Awareness Campaigns 🎉

    In addition to educator training, schools can also promote autism awareness through student-led initiatives and awareness campaigns. This can include hosting autism awareness events, creating inclusive clubs or extracurricular activities, and encouraging students to engage in peer-to-peer mentoring and support programs. By involving students in these initiatives, schools can cultivate a culture of empathy, understanding, and acceptance, where all students feel valued and supported.

    Strategies for Creating an Inclusive Classroom Environment 🌟
    1. Visual Support: Implementing visual aids such as schedules and task lists can help students with autism understand and navigate their day. Jacob thrives with visual schedules that outline his daily tasks, making him feel more secure and in control.

     

    1. Sensory-Friendly Accommodations: Providing tools like noise-cancelling headphones or quiet spaces can help manage sensory input. Jacob uses noise-cancelling headphones to cope with overwhelming environments.

     

    1. Social-Emotional Learning: Teaching social skills and fostering peer support encourages empathy and understanding among students. Jacob has benefited from social stories that help him understand and practice social interactions.
    The Role of Parents in Supporting Autism Education 👪

    Parents play a vital role in supporting the education and development of their children with autism. Parents can work closely with educators and administrators to ensure their child’s educational experience is tailored to their unique strengths and challenges.

    One key responsibility of parents is to provide educators with comprehensive information about their child’s autism, including their communication style, sensory needs, and learning preferences. This information can help educators develop effective strategies and accommodations to support the student’s academic and social-emotional growth. Parents can also work with educators to create individualized education plans (IEPs) or 504 plans that outline the specific supports and services their child requires.

    Parents play a vital role in supporting their children’s education and development. Providing educators information about their child’s autism, such as communication style and sensory needs. This can help tailor effective strategies and accommodations. Collaboration between parents and educators creates a supportive environment that fosters growth and independence for children with autism.

     

    Jacob thrives daily using simple schedules that help him understand his day and our expectations. The schedules are a way to communicate and live independently for Jacob. He is able to have a day where he accomplishes work, chores, and interactions with his family and the community.  What if you have a plan for your child with autism? A Great Life.

    Resources for Autism Education and Awareness 📚

    There are resources available to support autism education and awareness, both for educators and the general public. These resources can provide valuable information, strategies, and tools to help create inclusive and supportive environments for individuals with autism. https://www.autismspeaks.org/

    Autism Society of America, a resource that offers educational materials, and support services for individuals with autism and their families. The organization’s website, https://www.autism-society.org, provides resources on topics such as early intervention, education, employment, and community engagement.

    Additionally, another resource is the National Autism Center,  focuses on evidence-based practices for supporting individuals with autism. The center’s website,

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