#AutismAwareness

  • 3 Top Challenges of having an adult child with autism.#autismchallenges🧩

    3-Top-Challenges-of-Having-an-Adult-Child-with-Autism
    #autismchallenges

    In this blog post, I’m diving into the  3 top challenges I’ve faced with Jacob since him becoming an adult. To my fellow parents, I know you feel my pain! 🌟 Ever feel like you’re juggling flaming swords while riding a unicycle? 🤹‍♂️ Welcome to the wild world of parenting an adult child with autism! So grab your coffee, take a seat, and let’s navigate this adventure together! 💙 #autismchallenges🧩

     

    Challenge #1: Keeping Reliable Care for Jacob While We Work

     

    Top 3 Challenges blog
    Challenge #1: Keeping Reliable Care for Jacob While We Work!

     

    Ah, the eternal quest for trustworthy care for our beloved Jacob! 🌟 It’s like searching for a unicorn in a marvel movie, am I right? But fear not, fellow adventurers, for we are armed with perseverance and strength! 🦄

     

    Entrusting Jacob’s care to others feels like sending him off on a grand quest without a map or a guidebook. 🗺️ It’s nerve-wracking, to say the least! But hey, we’re not alone in this journey. We’ve enlisted the help of a company that hires background-checked individuals. Yet, even with this safety net, the anxiety lingers like an unwelcome guest at a party. Try well-known agencies like the Autism Society, https://www.autismsociety-nc.org/#

     

    And let’s talk about the perpetual juggling act of work and caregiving. 🤹‍♂️ It’s like trying to tame a lion while balancing on a tightrope! But fret not, my friends, for there’s a legal safeguard in the form of FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act). Just to make sure you are not fired because you have to care for your child. It’s like our superhero cape, offering protection against the evil clutches of employment uncertainty. 💼✨

     

    Check out the government website here: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fmla

     

    Alright Autism adventurers, take heart! While the road may be rocky, and the challenges daunting, we shall overcome with resilience, determination, and maybe a dash of caffeine! ☕️ Onward, to victory! 🚀 #AutismAwareness 🧩

    Challenge #2: Navigating the Absence Abyss

    What happens when your workers are out sick?

     

    Ah, the dreaded sick days saga!  It’s like a whirlwind of chaos that sweeps through our carefully crafted plans, isn’t it? But fear not, for in the face of adversity, we emerge as champions of resilience and adaptability!🤒

     

    When your child’s caregiver calls in sick, and suddenly, you’re thrust into a frantic scramble to find a replacement. It’s like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded! But alas, finding someone who can step into your child’s world at a moment’s notice is like searching for a needle in a haystack. 🧩

     

    In the blink of an eye, FMLA becomes our lifeline, our legal shield against the unpredictability of caregiving. It’s like summoning reinforcements to fortify our defenses in the battle against chaos! 💼

     

    Amidst the challenges, the Autism Society stands as a beacon of hope, striving to bridge the gap between need and accessibility. They have introduced Jacob to other workers so that in a moment of need, someone can step in and help. This works only if there’s enough notice. Let’s not forget the logistical nightmare of living outside city limits.  It’s like being stranded on a desert island with limited resources,#AutismIsland!🚗

     

    So, fellow warriors, take a deep breath and summon your inner zen. 🌟 Though the road may be rocky, and the challenges aplenty, we shall prevail with perseverance, humor, and maybe a splash of “Calgon 🛁 take me away” for good measure!  #AutismAwareness 🧩

    Challenge #3: Crafting the Perfect Environment for Success

     

    Challenge#3
    Small zippered bags have school work and clothes in garment bags!

     

    Ah, the noble quest for the holy grail of productivity and success!  It’s like embarking on a grand adventure through the labyrinth of chaos, armed with nothing but schedules and calendars as our trusty companions.🏆

     

    Amidst the whirlwind of life, we forged a sanctuary of learning and tranquility for Jacob.  With schedules as our guiding stars, chaos retreated like a defeated dragon, and productivity flourished like wildflowers in spring.🌟

     

    A Collaborative Journey to Success

     

    But here’s the twist: success wasn’t just for Jacob alone; it was a team effort!  We shared our secrets of structure and success with the brave souls entrusted with Jacob’s care, transforming them into allies in our noble quest.💪

     

    And oh, the sweet relief when chaos was banished from our absence!  With a rock-solid foundation of understanding and structure, Jacob’s days unfolded like a well-rehearsed symphony, each note harmonizing with the next in a blissful melody of productivity.🌪️

     

    But let’s not forget the cardinal rule of parenting: consistency is key! Check out this previous  blog post: Help! 3 Ways a schedule can help sensory issues and communication barriers? #Autism Challenges🧩 Like master craftsmen, we meticulously crafted a framework of structure and procedures, ensuring that every interaction and every moment was a stepping stone on the path to success. 🔑

     

    So, dear comrades in arms, do not fear the daunting task before you! 🛡️ With a dash of consistency, a sprinkle of structure, and a hearty dose of determination, you too can forge an environment where success blooms like a garden in the sun. 🌷 #ParentingSuccess 🌈

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  • How to turn a gloomy day into a great day!#autismchallenges🧩

     

    Embracing the Rainy Day Adventure

    Rise and Shine, Autism Warriors! 🌟 It’s been a whirlwind of a week, hasn’t it? Meetings, sickness, and the occasional nocturnal wake-up call courtesy of Dad’s heroic endeavors as a firefighter and first responder. But fret not, my fellow adventurers, for when life tosses gloom our way, we’re experts at flipping the script! So, grab your umbrella and join me as we transform this rainy Saturday into a day brimming with culinary delights, sweet treats, and movie magic. Let’s sprinkle some joy into the gloom! ☂️”

    Kickstarting the Day with Aromatic Coffee

    So here we are, Autism Warriors, ready to conquer this gloomy Saturday with a dash of flair and a sprinkle of joy!  Let’s dive into the magic of turning a seemingly dull day into a memorable family adventure.☔️

    Indulging in Heavenly Delights

    First things first, let’s kickstart the day with some aromatic coffee to awaken our senses and fuel our spirits!  With David off shift and ready to join the fun, our family dynamic is already gearing up for an exciting day ahead.☕️

    A Sweet Stop at Crumbl Cookies

    crumbl cookies, YUM!
    Cookies for Movie Night!

    Next stop, Crumbl cookies!  Because let’s face it, what’s a gloomy day without some delectable treats to indulge in? Thanks to my persuasive co-workers, I’m now hooked on these heavenly delights, and there’s no turning back!🍪

    Crumbl Cookies Weekly Menu

    For those of you who don’t know, Crumbl cookies has a menu that changes weekly, so don’t look at the calories if you’re on a diet. Check them out: https://crumblcookies.com/ If you have the app, you can order ahead and pick up in a snap.🍪

    Embarking on a Nostalgic Journey

    With coffee in hand and cookies in tow, it’s time to transform our humble abode into a cozy haven of relaxation and entertainment. Cue the movie marathon!  As avid fans of “Stranger Things,” we’ve embarked on a nostalgic journey through the series, reliving the thrills and chills of Hawkins, Indiana. It’s the perfect blend of excitement and nostalgia to brighten up our gloomy Saturday.🎬

    Movie night netflix
    Movie Night “Stranger Things”
    Don’t Miss Out on Stranger Things

    For those of you who have missed this series, go check it out on Netflix:🎬 [Stranger Things]

    A Day Filled with Laughter and Love

    As the rain pitter-patters against the windowpanes, we huddle together on the couch, popcorn at the ready, and immerse ourselves in the captivating world of Eleven and her gang.  With each episode, laughter echoes through the room, and the worries of the week melt away in the warmth of family bonding and shared experiences.🍿

    Jacob’s Infectious Joy

    Meanwhile, Jacob, our ever-enthusiastic partygoer, revels in the festivities, his eyes lighting up with delight at the prospect of movie night and chocolate chip cookies.  His infectious joy reminds us that even on the dreariest of days, there’s always room for laughter and happiness.🌟

    Cheers to Making the Most of Every Moment

    So here’s to turning a gloomy Saturday into a day filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable memories. With a little creativity and a whole lot of love, we’ve transformed this rainy day into a magical adventure that reminds us of the beauty of family and togetherness. Cheers to making the most of every moment, rain or shine! 🌈✨

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  • Unlocking the Easter Joy: A Guide to Teaching Children with Autism about Easter

    Get ready to hop into Easter joy with our guide for children with autism! 🐰🌷 We’ll explore strategies and activities, using schedules to navigate sensory challenges and learn about Resurrection Day. Let’s make this Easter unforgettable! 🥚

    Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

    Before we hop into Easter fun, let’s understand Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). 🧠 ASD affects social interaction, communication, and behavior, often accompanied by sensory sensitivities and routine challenges. But fear not! 🛡️ Understanding Jacob’s needs is key to crafting a stress-free, engaging Easter for everyone. Let’s dive in! 🌟

    Navigating Easter Challenges for Children with Autism

    Easter brings joy, but also unique challenges for kids with autism. 🐣 Crowded events, loud noises, and social interactions can trigger anxiety and meltdowns. Plus, abstract concepts like the resurrection may be hard to grasp.

     

    A Guide to Teaching Children with Autism about Easter

     

    The-Easter-Story-for-Children, book for children
    I like Max Lucado, this is the book I bought.

    I’ve got you! 🛡️ With creative tools like videos and interactive books, like Max Lucado’s “The Easter Story for Children,” we can make learning fun and accessible for Jacob and kids like him. 📚 And let’s not forget our trusty lent calendar wreath from The Keeping Company, making Jesus’ journey to resurrection day a memorable family tradition! 🌟

    This is the visual I use for Jacob for lent.
    I use the cradle to cross wreath from “The Keeping Company”.

    The Significance of Easter Education for Kids with Autism

    Unlocking the mysteries of Easter isn’t just about bunnies and eggs—it’s a vital step in our children’s development journey! 🌟 Teaching kids with autism about Easter isn’t just about the holiday; it’s about nurturing their social skills, communication, and sensory integration. Plus, it’s a golden opportunity for them to join in family and community traditions, fostering a sense of belonging and connection. 🐣 So let’s dive into Easter education with gusto, empowering our kids to embrace the joy and meaning of this special holiday! 📚🎉

    Preparing Your Little Easter Bunnies for Festivities

    As Easter hops closer, let’s equip our kiddos with autism for the egg-citing adventures ahead! 🥚✨ One golden strategy? Whip up a visual schedule! 📅 These colorful roadmaps lay out the day’s events, giving our little ones a clear path to navigate the Easter maze. 🐇🗺️ And hey, why not sprinkle in some social stories for an extra dose of Easter Joy enlightenment? 📚 These bite-sized tales break down the holiday’s complex concepts into nuggets of knowledge, ensuring our kiddos are egg-stra prepared for the fun ahead! 📖🎉

    Egg-cellent Tips for a Sensory-Friendly Easter Egg Hunt

    Plan ahead to make the holidays chaos free and sensory friendly!
    “If you don’t know where you’re going, you’ll end up someplace else.”
    ― Yogi Berra

    Ah, the classic Easter egg hunt – a staple of the holiday season! 🥚🐰 But for our kiddos with autism, the usual hustle and bustle can be overwhelming. Fear not, fellow bunny wranglers!  Here are some cracking tips to transform your egg hunt into a sensory-friendly extravaganza:🐇

    Location, location, location! Opt for a quiet, less crowded spot like your backyard or a serene park during off-peak hours. It’s like finding a hidden oasis in a sea of chaos!🌟

    Visual cues are the name of the game!🏳️‍🌈  Deck out those hiding spots with colorful flags or markers to guide our little egg explorers. 🎨🚩

    Who needs a map when you’ve got a treasure hunt?🗝️ Get creative and offer alternative ways to track down those elusive eggs – think treasure maps or clues tailored to your kiddo’s interests. 🗺️

    Cater to those sensory preferences! Whether it’s eggs with different textures, ones that make funky noises, or those filled with candy. 🎶 🌈

    Seeing is Believing: Using Visual Supports and Social Stories for Easter

    Easter isn’t all about bunnies, baskets, and a boatload of traditions! 🐇🧺 But for our kiddos with autism, navigating the holiday hoopla can be like trying to crack a secret code. Fear not, fellow Easter enthusiasts! 🌟 Let’s harness the power of visuals and stories to make Easter egg-ceptional for everyone!

    📅 Visual Supports: These are our holiday GPS, guiding us through the Easter maze with ease! From visual schedules outlining the day’s activities to handy cues reminding us to hop, skip, and jump during religious services – visuals are the unsung heroes of our Easter adventure! 🥚🗺️

    📖 Social Stories: Ah, the tales of Easter past, present, and future! 📚 These nifty narratives break down the holiday hustle and bustle into bite-sized nuggets of knowledge. From the meaning behind Easter to the ins and outs of egg hunts and bunny visits, social stories are our secret weapon for decoding Easter mysteries! 🔍💡

    With visuals in hand and stories in our hearts, we’re ready to embark on an Easter escapade like never before! So, gather ’round, my Easter bunnies, and let’s make this holiday one for the books! Not sure? Check out a previous post: Help! 3 Ways a schedule can help sensory issues and communication barriers? #Autism Challenges🧩📚🌷

    Egg-cellent Easter Crafts & Sensory Adventures

    Easter isn’t just about bunnies and baskets – it’s a chance to dive into egg-citing sensory experiences! 🥚✨ Let’s crack open the creativity and explore some egg-ceptional activities tailored for our kiddos with autism.

    1. Sensory-Friendly Egg Decorating: Skip the mess and opt for mess-free egg decorating! 🎨🚫 Swap out dyes for stickers, markers, or colored tape to jazz up those eggs. Plastic or foam eggs are great alternatives for texture-sensitive kiddos!

    2. Egg Shaker Music: Get ready to shake, rattle, and roll with DIY egg shakers! 🎶 Fill plastic eggs with rice, beans, or tiny treasures, and let the music-making begin! It’s a groovy way to boost fine motor skills and sensory processing.

    3. Easter Sensory Bins: Dive into an Easter-themed sensory adventure!✨ Fill a bin with colored rice, plastic eggs, bunny figurines, and feathers. Let your child’s imagination run wild as they explore different textures and colors. 🌈

    These egg-ceptional activities are just the beginning of the Easter fun! Get cracking and create sensory-rich experiences that will delight and engage your child with autism. 🌈✨

    Wishing you a happy and inclusive Easter, Resurrection Day celebration!

     

    Wishing you a Happy Easter!
    From our family to yours, Happy Easter, Resurrection Day!

    Unlocking the Easter joy for children with autism requires thoughtful planning and adaptations to ensure their comfort and engagement in the festivities. By embracing inclusive Easter traditions, engaging in sensory-friendly activities, and utilizing visual supports, you can create an Easter experience that is enjoyable and meaningful for your child with autism.

    Remember, every child with autism is unique, so feel free to customize these strategies to best suit your child’s needs. With love, patience, and understanding, you can make Easter a time of joy and growth for your entire family. 🐣💫

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  • 3 Tips for dealing with Covid and your child.#Autism Challenges🧩

    Navigating COVID Quarantine Chaos

    Mom is sick with Covid, now what?
    Mom is always there; she has COVID-19, now what?

    Okay, so here we go again. I’m down with Covid once more. Attempting to quarantine myself to prevent anyone else from falling ill, but Jacob doesn’t quite grasp the concept. He’s eager to burst into my room with his repertoire of movie quotes or to share his latest Amazon wishlist item. Thank goodness for the marvels of modern technology, allowing us to order groceries online and swing by for contactless pick-up. I’ve stocked up on all of Jake’s essentials, but I seriously need a guard dog or a lock on my door. Even my poodle, loyal as she is, is more into playtime than patrol duty.😷👦🏼🧩

    Tip 1: Embrace Online Grocery Shopping

    During sickness stick to a schedule with kids!
    During sickness stick to a schedule with kids!

    My first tip? Embrace the wonders of online grocery shopping. Find a convenient store that allows you to order online and pick up your groceries without leaving your car. Alternatively, services like Insta cart can deliver groceries straight to your doorstep. It’s a game-changer, trust me. 🛒💻

    Jacob has inventory of all his favorite staples and always tells me what to get on my way out the door! Peanut butter, cereal and milk and Harris Teeter’s chocolate chip cookies. 🍪

    Tip 2: Master the Art of Quarantine

    Quarantine Zone Off Limits
    Quarantine Zone- Off Limits! Lock the door if you have to!

    Secondly, quarantine like a pro. Learn from my mistakes and ensure that your quarantine zone is strictly off-limits. Unfortunately, my attempts at barricading the door were futile, and Jacob made himself right at home. Coming in and grabbing my iPad to show me what he wanted from Amazon. Make sure your space is off-limits and enlist the help of family members to enforce the rules.🔒🚫

    Tip 3: Stick to Routine

    Thirdly, stick to your routine. If you’re lucky enough to have your child on a schedule, routines are a lifesaver. Need help with that? Check out this post: 3 Ways Jacob’s Monthly Calendar and Daily Schedule Work on Autism Island! Not only do they give you the rest you need to heal, but they also provide a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos. And don’t forget to stock up on essentials like ibuprofen and Alka Seltzer Cold and Flu to help you weather the storm.⏰🔄

    Stay Prepared and Stay Strong

    In times like these, preparation is key. Having Jake’s weekly work organized in zippered bags and his clothes laid out for the week has been a game-changer. It takes the guesswork out of our daily routine and gives me the peace of mind I need to focus on getting better.💪🧼

    Here’s a helpful resource I stumbled upon that offers tips on managing schedules during remote learning:** [Remote Learning Round-Up: Schedules & Routines]. https://medium.com/swlh/remote-learning-round-up-schedules-routines-30c08ea0dde2

    Stay healthy, stay safe, and remember to take care of yourself, too.

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