#CALMFramework

  • RFK Jr. HHS Secretary, those offended, Levels 2-3 Autism Affects the Family

    Advocate-for-Acceptance-Inclusion-and-Research-🧩-
    Honest conversations that include all autism experiences.

    How Levels 2-3 Autism Affects the Family

    Why is it that when someone speaks an uncomfortable truth about how severe autism affects families, so many rush to shut it down? 🤫

    Let’s be honest — families living with Level 2 and Level 3 autism are often carrying invisible weights. These aren’t just social quirks or a lack of awareness training. We’re talking about profound daily challenges that impact every area of life.

    We should be able to talk about what’s hard, what hurts, and what might help  without being shamed for it. Wanting to prevent suffering, or make our children’s lives more manageable, is not the same as rejecting who they are. It’s love in action. ❤️‍🩹

    The Statement That Ignited a Firestorm 🔥

    RFK Jr. is in the headlines again—this time for directly addressing the autism community in a way that has sparked intense reactions.

    During a recent appearance, Kennedy promised new studies with preliminary results expected by September, aiming to better understand the alarming rise in autism rates. He noted that in the early 2000s, autism affected 1 in 50 children. Today? It’s 1 in 36, with some reports citing 1 in 31. https://www.statista.com/statistics/1237464/autism-research-funding-united-states-by-nih/

    But it wasn’t these statistics that created the backlash. It was this statement:

    “Autism destroys families, and more importantly, it destroys our greatest resource, which is our children. These children who should not be suffering like this… These are kids who will never pay taxes, they’ll never hold a job, they’ll never play baseball, they’ll never write a poem, they’ll never go on a date, many of them will never use a toilet unassisted.”

    His words were blunt. They were uncomfortable. And yes, they hurt many in the autism community.

    But as a mother of a 27-year-old son with moderate autism and epilepsy, I need to say something that might be equally uncomfortable:

    For many families like mine, he wasn’t wrong. ❤️‍🩹

    How Levels 2-3 Autism Affects the Family: A Reality Many Don’t See 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

    I’ve spent decades in the trenches of autism—both as a mother and as a special education teacher. I’ve witnessed the spectrum in all its complexity. And I’ve watched autism rates climb steadily throughout my career, far beyond what “better diagnosis” alone could explain.

    The reality is that autism isn’t a monolith. It exists on a vast spectrum that includes:

    • Those who are verbal, employed, creative, and living independently
    • Those who need moderate support but can achieve meaningful independence
    • Those who require lifelong, 24/7 supervision and will never experience the milestones most take for granted

    My son Jacob falls into that last category. Despite decades of therapies, interventions, and unwavering love, he:

    • Cannot be left home alone 🏠
    • Will likely never live independently
    • Requires constant support for basic daily functions

    This isn’t because we haven’t tried. This isn’t because we don’t have hope. This is simply the reality of How Levels 2-3 Autism Affects the Family—a reality that’s exhausting, financially devastating, and yes, sometimes feels like it’s destroying the family unit. Autism Awareness Month! Parenting on the spectrum, no judgment here?🏝️

    Why We Feel Silenced: The Vaccine Conversation 🔇

    Let’s address the elephant in the room. Many parents like me have been effectively silenced when we mention our children’s dramatic regressions following vaccinations.

    To be clear: I’m not claiming all autism is caused by vaccines. I’m not even claiming my son’s autism was caused by vaccines. What I am saying is that many of us witnessed our children change dramatically after certain medical interventions. Maybe not the cause but there was harm. As parents we saw:

    • Children who had words suddenly lose them 💔
    • Children who made eye contact suddenly stop
    • Children who developed severe gut issues where none existed before
    • Children whose developmental trajectory took a sudden, dramatic turn

    And when we mention these observations—even gently, even as part of a complex conversation about multiple potential factors—we’re immediately dismissed with “correlation doesn’t equal causation” signs and accusations of being “anti-science.”

    But here’s what those critics don’t understand: We were there. We lived it. We watched our children change before our eyes.

    No one can prove to us that vaccines weren’t a contributing factor—just as no one can prove with certainty that they were. But dismissing our lived experience doesn’t help anyone, least of all our children who continue to suffer with communication barriers, sensory processing disorders, and medical complications.

    Government Transparency 🔍

    Another uncomfortable truth: many agencies that should be protecting us haven’t always been transparent about potential toxins in our medical interventions, foods, and environment.

    The history of public health is littered with examples of substances once declared “safe” that later proved harmful:

    • Lead in gasoline and paint ⚠️
    • Mercury in thermometers and dental fillings
    • Asbestos in building materials
    • Various pharmaceutical products later pulled from market

    I did whatever our doctor suggested when my boys were young because that’s how I was raised. I trusted the system completely. But over the years, my perspective has evolved as I’ve witnessed concerning patterns and learned more about regulatory oversight.

    It’s not “anti-science” to ask whether our regulatory agencies have been fully transparent about preservatives in vaccines, the dramatically expanded childhood vaccination schedule, or the cumulative effect of multiple interventions. It’s not wrong to wonder if we could do better as a country.

    RFK Jr.’s promise to investigate further doesn’t threaten neurodiversity—it threatens complacency. It challenges the notion that we should simply accept the status quo without asking hard questions about how we might prevent more families from experiencing what ours have.

    Beyond “Inclusion,Acceptance”: Why Some of Us Want More 🧩

    “Autism doesn’t need a cure, just acceptance and inclusion.”

    I’ve heard this refrain countless times and for some I believe that’s true. Their neurodivergence brings gifts along with challenges, and they rightfully want a world that appreciates their unique perspective.

    But for families like mine, dealing with the moderate-severe end of the spectrum, this sentiment feels dismissive of our daily reality.

    My son hasn’t been “robbed” of just social acceptance. He’s been robbed of:

    • The ability to tell me when something hurts 🗣️
    • The joy of a conversation where he can share his thoughts and feelings in detail
    • The comfort of eating without sensory issues making most foods intolerable
    • Freedom from obsessive-compulsive behaviors that consume hours of his day
    • Independence that others take for granted

    These aren’t just “quirks” that society needs to accommodate. They’re profound challenges that cause my child suffering every single day.

    Wanting to ease that suffering—wanting to understand what caused it and how we might prevent it in other children—doesn’t make me ableist. It makes me a mother who can’t bear to see her child struggle when perhaps those struggles could have been prevented.

    How autism affects the family goes far beyond needing more inclusive classrooms or workplace accommodations. For us, it means a lifetime of specialized care, medical interventions, behavior management, and constant supervision. It means planning for 50+ years of dependency and worrying what happens when we’re gone.

    The Moderate-Severe Autism Family Impact: Realities We Face Daily 📣

    When advocates called Kennedy’s comments “eugenic” or “setting the community back,” I have to ask: which community are they speaking for?

    Because while I celebrate every  person with autism leading a fulfilling, independent life, there’s another community being left behind in this conversation:

    • Parents changing adult diapers 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
    • Siblings who’ve become default caregivers
    • Marriages crumbling under the financial and emotional strain
    • Families planning for 50+ years of dependent care
    • Schools struggling with limited resources for severe behaviors

    For us, acknowledging the devastating severe autism family impact isn’t offensive—it’s validating. It’s someone finally seeing our daily struggle.

    And when Kennedy promises research into environmental factors, rising rates, and potential causes, that’s not an attack on individuals with autism it’s offering hope to exhausted families desperate for answers. ✨

    Why “Just Genetics” Isn’t Enough 🧬

    The pushback against environmental research frustrates many parents like me. We’re told:

    “It’s just better diagnosis.” ❌ “It’s  genetic.” ❌ “We’re just more aware now.” ❌

    But those of us who’ve worked in education for decades have witnessed this explosion firsthand. I never saw these numbers of severely affected children when I began teaching. Now, special education classrooms are overflowing.

    While genetics may certainly play a role, the dramatic rise suggests something more complex at work, perhaps a gene-environment interaction that deserves serious investigation.

    The truth is, we know harmful substances exist in our environment, our food, and yes, sometimes in our medical interventions. These chemicals and compounds don’t affect everyone equally, some individuals are more susceptible based on their unique genetic makeup. Acknowledging this complex interplay isn’t anti-science; it’s the very essence of modern scientific inquiry.

    Wanting to understand why isn’t eugenic. It’s responsible.

    Moving Forward with Heart: Beyond the Division 💞

    I don’t write this to create more division in an already divided community. I write this because healing can only begin with honesty.

    For too long, parents of severely affected children have been silenced:

    • We’re told our observations about regression after medical interventions are invalid
    • We’re accused of not accepting our children when we seek to ease their suffering 😔
    • We’re labeled as “anti-science” for questioning whether environmental factors played a role
    • We’re told to focus solely on acceptance when our children need intensive interventions

    But we need to reclaim our voice, because our reality is valid too.

    Supporting research into environmental factors doesn’t mean we love our children any less. It means we want to prevent other families from facing the same struggles. It means we want better interventions for those already affected.

    And acknowledging the devastating aspects of how autism affects the family doesn’t diminish our children’s worth—it acknowledges their challenges and our sacrifices.

    Jacobs-heart-hands-say-it-all-we-are-here-to-advocate-for-Acceptance-Inclusion-and-Research-
    Let’s Love and show Kindness!

    A Path Forward: Beyond the Signs and Slogans 🛣️

    Here’s what I believe we need:

    1. Honest conversation that acknowledges the full spectrum of autism experiences—from mild to profound 🗣️
    2. Respect for parents’ observations about their own children’s developmental history
    3. Comprehensive research into both genetic AND environmental factors—without political biases
    4. Better transparency from regulatory agencies about what goes into our bodies and environment
    5. Support for those who are suffering without accusations of being anti-neurodiversity
    6. Recognition that wanting to prevent suffering is not the same as devaluing those with autism

    Because at the end of the day, this isn’t about RFK Jr. or political affiliations. It’s not about being pro-vaccine or anti-vaccine. It’s about families like mine who are moving through each day with a smile, trying our best to improve our children’s lives while carrying burdens few can understand.

    To the Parents Experiencing Severe Autism Family Impact 💪

    If you’re reading this while exhausted from another sleepless night with your severely autistic child…

    If you’ve ever watched your child struggle to communicate basic needs… 😢

    If you’ve been dismissed when sharing observations about your child’s developmental regression…

    If you’ve been made to feel like you’re “part of the problem” for asking questions about environmental factors…

    I see you. Your experience is real. Your questions are valid. Your observations matter. 👏

    You’re not alone in feeling that parts of Kennedy’s statements—however imperfectly expressed—spoke to your lived reality.

    And you’re not wrong for wanting answers, research, and solutions while simultaneously loving your child exactly as they are.

    Moving-Forward-Together-🤝
    Let’s Thrive Together in This Journey!

    Moving Forward Together 🤝

    We need an autism conversation that makes room for everyone:

    • Those thriving on the spectrum
    • Those moderately affected
    • Those severely impacted
    • The families supporting them all

    And most importantly, we need a conversation that respects parents’ right to share their observations and ask difficult questions without being labeled or dismissed.

    Because until we can honestly address the full reality of how all Levels of autism affects the family, including its most challenging presentations and potential cause we can’t truly support the entire community.

    It’s time to listen to ALL voices in this conversation, even when what they have to say makes us uncomfortable.

    If you’re raising a child who struggles every single day you’re not alone. If your child is like Jacob, and the world seems to forget about them I’m here for you. Join us inside Autism Thrive Tribe ✨, where we support each other through the challenges of how autism affects the family while celebrating every victory, no matter how small.

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  • This too shall pass, how we changed our mindset on autism island!

    When-life-on-Autism-Island-feels-heavy-remember-this-too-shall-pass.-Each-challenge-shapes-us-for-something-greater.-💛
    Mindset and faith are foundational! 2Corinthians 4:17-18

    How We Changed Our Mindset on Autism

    Life as a parent of a child with autism often feels overwhelming, exhausting, and filled with challenges that seem insurmountable. But over the years, I’ve learned that the mindset for autism parents is not just important—it’s foundational. It’s the key to shifting from chaos to calm and creating a path forward for both your child and your family. How does mindset change things when raising a child with autism? 🧩

    To develop the right mindset, you need to face your biggest challenges head-on and understand why having a plan is critical. The how comes from taking action and learning from others who’ve walked this journey and can offer guidance and support. As parents, we can’t control every situation, but we can control how we respond, and that begins with our mindset.

    A verse from 2 Corinthians 4:17-18: “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen.” These words have reminded me to focus on faith, growth, and the hope that keeps us moving forward. You won’t stay in the happy moments forever or the tough moments forever, keep moving forward, This too shall pass!

    In this week’s blog post, I’ll share how we shifted our mindset from frustration and fear to calm and confidence. In EducatingJacob’s CALM strategies, the “M” stands for Mindset, and it’s the foundation of everything we do. A positive mindset is integral to your confidence as a parent and your ability to guide your family through the complexities of autism. Let’s explore how this simple shift can transform your journey and bring peace to your home. 🌈

    Mindset for Autism Parents 

    When Jacob was diagnosed with autism, I was paralyzed by fear. I couldn’t see past the overwhelming reality and uncertainty of what life would look like for our family. I had always been a mom who tackled everything with enthusiasm, but this was different—I was blindsided. The future felt like an insurmountable mountain, and I had no idea how to climb it.

    But here’s what I’ve learned: mindset is the foundation for everything. It’s the starting point for creating calm in your home, confidence in yourself, and joy in the everyday wins. Through EducatingJacob’s CALM framework, I’ve discovered that when parents focus on mindset, they unlock the ability to grow and thrive—not just for their child, but for the entire family. How to achieve CALM on Autism Island, daily life on the spectrum.

    Have-Faith-in-Your-Journey-Remind-yourself-that-challenges-are-temporary-and-growth-is-always-possible
    Have faith, journal so you can see your journey.

    From Fear to Acceptance: A Mindset Shift

    When our autism journey began, I moved fairly quickly from denial to acceptance, but fear still lingered. I worried about Jacob’s future and questioned whether I had the ability to help him thrive like I had with our first son.

    At the recommendation of professionals, I enrolled Jacob in preschool and later in kindergarten. Preschool was rough—meltdowns were constant, and the teachers didn’t know how to manage his behaviors. Kindergarten was a little better; the self-contained classroom and a caring teacher made a difference. But progress was slow.

    It was clear to me that Jacob needed more individualized attention, and I felt called to step in. I quit my job and began homeschooling Jacob and his older brother. Though it was a hard decision, it was the first step in reclaiming my confidence as a parent and helping Jacob in a way that felt right for him.

    Building Confidence Through Action

    Over time, I realized that confidence doesn’t come all at once—it builds with every decision, every step forward, and every win, no matter how small. For me, this journey included going back to school for a master’s degree in special education while working third shift at the hospital. I wanted to not only help Jacob but also make a difference for other children like him.

    The exhaustion was real, but with each decision, my confidence grew. As I learned more about Jacob’s specific needs—his sensory challenges, communication barriers, and resistance to change—I began to see that we couldn’t raise him the same way we raised his brother. Jacob needed an environment tailored to his unique way of thinking and learning.

    Why Mindset Matters for Growth

    A positive mindset became the cornerstone of everything we did. Once I let go of my fear and self-doubt, I could focus on creating plans and strategies that truly worked for Jacob. This wasn’t about perfection; it was about progress.

    • Mindset shifts help you face challenges calmly. Instead of reacting emotionally to meltdowns, I began to see them as opportunities to understand Jacob better.
    • A strong mindset builds resilience. Autism parenting isn’t easy, but when you approach each day with determination and faith, you gain the strength to tackle even the hardest moments.
    • Mindset transforms your family life. When I shifted my focus from fear to hope, our home became a calmer, happier place, where Jacob could grow and thrive.
    C-Consistent-Action-Forward-–-Progress-happens-one-small-step-at-a-time.-Mindset-helps-you-take-those-steps-without-becoming-overwhelmed.-A-Always-Celebrate-Wins-–-A-positive
    Use the CALM frameworks and celebrate all wins!

    The Role of CALM in Mindset

    In the CALM framework, mindset is the “M” for a reason. It’s the foundation that supports everything else: structure, routines, communication, and growth. Here’s how mindset fits into the bigger picture:

    • C: Consistent Action Forward – Progress happens one small step at a time. Mindset helps you take those steps without becoming overwhelmed.
    • A: Always Celebrate Wins – A positive mindset allows you to see and celebrate the small victories, which build momentum and confidence.
    • L: Learning to Create Schedules – A strong mindset helps you implement tools like visual schedules with patience and determination.
    • M: Mindset is the Glue – It keeps you grounded, focused, and ready to adapt as your child grows and changes.

    Taking Care of Yourself

    One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that taking care of myself is just as important as taking care of Jacob. Autism parenting is challenging, and burnout is real. Whether it’s finding support from other parents, taking a quiet moment for yourself, or leaning on faith, self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.

    Support can come in many forms:

    • Family and friends who understand your journey
    • Support groups where you can connect with others
    • Coaching or mentorship from someone who’s been where you are

    Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. By taking care of yourself, you’re better equipped to take care of your child and your family.

    Moving Forward: Mindset for Autism Parents

    Changing your mindset doesn’t happen overnight, but it’s the most important step in moving forward. For Jacob, a tailored plan, consistent routines, and my renewed confidence helped him thrive. And for me, seeing his progress has been the most rewarding part of this journey.

    If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, start small. Shift your mindset from fear to hope by focusing on what you can do today. Celebrate every win, no matter how small, and remind yourself that you are the best advocate and teacher your child will ever have.

    With the right mindset, you can create a home filled with calm, joy, and growth for your entire family. You’ve got this, and you’re not alone—I’m here to walk this journey with you.

    Embrace-Progress-Over-Perfection-@educatingjacob
    Get a plan and start messy! Celebrate all wins.

    Tips for Building a Stronger Mindset

    1. Embrace Progress Over Perfection: Focus on small wins and let go of the need for everything to be perfect.
    2. Find Your Support Network: Connect with others who understand your journey, whether through local groups or online communities.
    3. Celebrate the Wins: No matter how small, every step forward deserves recognition.
    4. Take Care of Yourself: Prioritize your own mental and emotional health so you can show up fully for your child.
    5. Have Faith in Your Journey: Remind yourself that challenges are temporary, and growth is always possible.

    Let’s move forward together—one step, one mindset shift, and one win at a time. 🌈

    🧐 Struggling with daily routines and meltdowns?
    🌟 As an autism parent coach, I help you transform chaos into calm by creating strategies that work for your family. 🌟

    📅 Schedule a discovery call
    👉🏼 Visit my contact page to get started: https://educatingjacob.com/contact/

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

    #askmelissa

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  • How to achieve CALM on Autism Island, daily life on the spectrum.

    Managing autism chaos and stress as a parent
    #VisualSchedules #AutismLife #MomLifeWins

    Managing Autism Chaos and Stress as a Parent

    Achieving CALM on Autism Island  is truly a journey, and I can tell you from experience—it’s not always smooth sailing! Managing autism chaos and stress as a parent in the early years, we were overwhelmed with frustration and fear because we didn’t know how autism would affect Jacob or our family. Fear kept us stuck in a place of chaos for a long time. We had no roadmap, and I constantly questioned myself as a parent, wondering if I was doing enough or if I was the “worst mom ever.” There were no mentors, no clear answers, and it felt like we were alone on this chaotic island.

    Fast forward to today, year 27 of our journey, and while there are still challenges, we now live with calm, structure, and without the chaos and stress of those early years. This transformation didn’t happen overnight. It came from creating routines, using visual schedules, and following the CALM framework I’ve built over the years. And that’s why I started this blog—to share my experiences and help other moms who are feeling just like I did back then.

    In this post, I’m going to walk you through the steps that helped us turn our chaotic island into a place of calm and peace, so you can create that same calm in your daily life on the spectrum.

     

    Managing daily life autism chaos and stress as a parent
    Managing daily life autism chaos and stress as a parent

    Daily Life Tips for Parents of Autistic Children 

     

    I lost my confidence and joy as a mom the day I was hit with Jacob’s autism diagnosis. What I initially thought was just a speech delay turned into something much bigger—autism. It felt like a tidal wave crashing over our family, leaving me unsure of how to move forward. After months of research (remember dial-up internet?!), I found papers documenting behaviors and problems, but nothing really helped me create a plan for Jacob or our family.

     

    That’s when I took things into my own hands and decided to get my master’s degree in special education. Now, I want to be clear—you do not need a teaching degree to help your child. I went to that extreme because I was blindsided by the diagnosis and wanted answers. I was emotional and being a little extra! My confidence was gone so I went a little overboard to get it back. But you already have the most important thing: you know your child better than anyone. With the right tools, you can create calm in your home and build a life of joy and confidence for your family.  https://aheartforallstudents.com/autism-calming-strategies/

     

    How to Achieve Calm in Autism Parenting

     

    In order to achieve calm in my parenting, I needed both knowledge and a plan. The key breakthrough for us came when I learned to create visual schedules for Jacob. These simple tools became a game-changer, giving Jacob a way to understand his day without feeling overwhelmed by language or anxiety. 

     

    At first, we started small—just a few daily activities were placed on his schedule. But over time, these schedules gave Jacob the confidence to take on more. As he began doing small chores and following his schedule, the meltdowns decreased dramatically. He was no longer trying to control everything around him because the structure was already in place. That alone was GOLD for us as a family.

     

    By reducing Jacob’s anxiety and meltdowns, our home shifted from a place of chaos to one of calm. We could finally relax and enjoy being together, even as we faced new challenges. I began to feel more confident as a mom and started savoring more moments with Jacob. As his anxiety lessened, so did mine.

     

    Creating Structure for Children with Autism

     

    Children with autism, like Jacob, crave structure and routine. It brings them comfort, allowing them to navigate their day without feeling like they’re constantly in “fight or flight” mode. Managing autism chaos and stress as a parent, it’s our job is to provide that structure through simple routines that eliminate stress and overwhelm.

     

    At @EducatingJacob, we teach the CALM framework, and it all starts with Consistent Action Forward. This doesn’t mean we micromanage every moment of the day, but we do create visual schedules and routines for daily tasks. These schedules set our children up for success, and they don’t need to be complicated to be effective.  Stop engaging in power struggles! Use redirection for your autistic child.

     

    Start small and simple. Begin with something your child already does well. For Jacob, this meant starting with tasks he was already somewhat familiar with—like brushing his teeth or putting on his shoes. We celebrated every win, no matter how small. With each success, we added new tasks, slowly building his routine.

     

    Celebrate every win. Whether it’s following the schedule for one task or completing an entire routine, each small victory builds momentum. When your child feels successful, they are more likely to embrace the schedule, and that’s when you can add new elements without resistance.

     

    Once the routine is in place and your child is following it consistently, you can rinse and repeat—adding new tasks as your child becomes more comfortable. Over time, this builds a daily routine that fits your family’s needs and sets your child up for a lifetime of calm and independence.

     

    From Chaos to Calm: The Power of Visual Schedules

     

    Our journey on Autism Island started with fear, frustration, and a lot of chaos. But once we began using visual schedules and followed the CALM framework, everything changed. The schedules became a tool that reduced Jacob’s anxiety, improved his communication, and gave him the confidence to navigate his day.🌴

     

    These tools not only helped Jacob thrive but also helped our entire family relax and find peace. My confidence as a mom returned, and I started to see the brighter days ahead. How are using schedules improving our autistic child’s daily life?

     

    Get-a-plan-and-a-Visual-Schedule
    #VisualSchedule #GetAPlan
    Tips and Strategies for Achieving CALM on Autism Island

     

    1. Start Small with Visual Schedules  

       Begin by incorporating simple tasks into your child’s visual schedule. Focus on activities they are already familiar with to build confidence and reduce resistance. Over time, you can add more complexity, but keep it manageable at first.

     

    1. Be Consistent with Daily Routines  

       Consistency is key to reducing anxiety. Stick to the schedule every day to help your child feel secure and in control. The more consistent you are, the more they will rely on the routine to guide them.

     

    1. Celebrate Every Win  

       Whether it’s completing one small task or following the entire schedule, celebrate these moments! Positive reinforcement encourages your child to keep going and builds their self-esteem.

     

    1. Use the Schedule to Reduce Meltdowns 

       Visual schedules eliminate the need for a lot of verbal instructions, which can sometimes provoke meltdowns in children with autism. By pointing to the schedule, you provide clear direction without overwhelming your child with language.

     

    1. Gradually Introduce Change  

       Once your child is comfortable with their routine, start introducing small changes. Whether it’s adding a new task or modifying the schedule, go slowly and allow your child to adjust before moving on. Don’t overwhelm yourself or your child by changing everything at once.

     

    1. Stay Calm and Flexible  

       It’s important to remain calm, even when things don’t go as planned. Flexibility will help you adjust to your child’s needs while still keeping the routine intact. If your child struggles with a new task, model and assist until your child can do independently. It shouldn’t be part of an independent schedule until it’s able to be done without you helping.

     

    1. Incorporate Fun and Joy  

       Use the visual schedule to include fun activities that your child enjoys. This makes the schedule feel rewarding and helps them look forward to following it. Remember to balance structure with moments of joy! You can offer rewards at the end of a successful task, end of day or when they are older the end of week. Just remember to always acknowledge and celebrate the wins.

     

    🧐 Struggling with daily routines and meltdowns?
    🌟 As an autism parent coach, I help you transform chaos into calm by creating strategies that work for your family. 🌟

    📅 Schedule a discovery call
    👉🏼 Visit my contact page to get started: https://educatingjacob.com/contact/

    #autismcoach #autismparentcoaching #autismandepilepsy #autismfamily💙#autismmom😎 #autismboymom😎 #autismchallenges🧩 #AutismParenting #DoctorVisitSuccess #EducatingJacob #AutismSupport #CalmParenting #AutismParenting #VisualSchedules#CALMFramework #AutismLife #DailyRoutinesForAutism #AutismTipsForParents #AutismAnxietyReliefCreatingStructureForAutism #AutismMomLife #FromChaosToCalm

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  • The fire does not consume us, life on Autism Island! Autism daily.

    “When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” 🔥 Isaiah 43:2
    Faith keeps us grounded and strong.

    Autism parenting challenge, Life on Autism Island!🔥🌊

    Autism parenting challenges and rewards are a part of our everyday life. After 27 years on this journey with our son Jacob, who just celebrated his birthday in August, we’ve faced many ups and downs. As a family of four—Jacob, his older brother, and us, his parents—we’ve grown and learned so much. But that doesn’t mean we have it all figured out. Life on Autism Island is full of surprises, adjustments, and yes, setbacks.

    Despite these challenges, we hold onto the promise from Isaiah 43:2: “When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” 🔥 This journey—this fire—does not consume us. With love, grace, and a strong commitment to each other, we continue to push forward through whatever comes our way.

    As we move into fall, we are once again facing new transitions and adjustments, much like we discussed in last week’s blog on seasonal changes. In this post, I’ll share more about the daily realities of life on Autism Island, the struggles, the rewards, and how we navigate it all with resilience and hope.

    Autism parenting challenges and rewards 🔥💙

    Autism parenting challenges and rewards have been at the heart of our 27-year journey with Jacob. As we walk through each season of life on Autism Island, we’ve learned that faith, family, and preparation are key. With Jacob’s sensory sensitivities and rigid routines, every day brings its own challenges, but we’ve also seen the rewards of patience, love, and growth over time.

    This journey isn’t perfect, and it’s not without its setbacks. But with God’s grace and our commitment to each other, we’ve learned to use tools like visual schedules and strategies from the CALM framework to help Jacob navigate his world. Our journey is proof that, with perseverance, things can get better. 🙏💪

    Autism Daily life joke
    As an Autism Parent you will need CALM and humor!

    The Power of Visual Schedules 🗓️

    One of the main tools that has transformed our daily life is visual schedules. Jacob’s love for routine means that any change—especially moving from one season to another—can be hard for him to accept. For example, this morning was the first chilly day of the season, and it was time to wear a hoodie. Since Jacob is used to wearing short sleeves, this transition didn’t go smoothly at first.

    What helps is incorporating the clothing change into his visual schedule. I lay out his clothes in advance and point them out on the schedule, giving him time to process that he’ll need a jacket or hoodie before we head out the door. This practice helps him see what’s coming and allows us to avoid some of the meltdowns that could occur without preparation. Check out this dad 👉 https://pin.it/3l8R65S46

     

    Redirection: Moving from Resistance to Cooperation 🎯

    Even with a visual schedule in place, Jacob sometimes resists new transitions. But instead of getting frustrated, I use redirection to help shift his focus. For example, if he’s upset about the hoodie, I’ll point out something exciting coming up later in the day, like picking out a pumpkin or getting his favorite snack. 🎃🍪

    Another effective tactic we use is referencing a favorite movie. Jacob loves quoting movies, so we might start exchanging movie quotes to lighten the mood and redirect his attention from the challenge at hand to something he enjoys. This method works wonders in getting him out the door without turning a small issue into a bigger battle. Stop engaging in power struggles! Use redirection for your autistic child.

     

    Faith, Family, and the CALM Framework ✨💪

    As we move through life on Autism Island, our faith has been a crucial part of how we manage autism parenting challenges and rewards. Isaiah 43:2 reminds us that the fire does not consume us, and we hold onto that promise every day. Ways to have peace? Creating time for yourself, not just your child with autism.

    Our family has learned to lean on God, and each other, showing love and grace as we guide Jacob through the tough moments. This means practicing the CALM strategies consistently:

    C. onsistent Action Forward: Maintaining routines and schedules helps Jacob feel more secure.
    A. lways Celebrate Wins: When Jacob follows the schedule, we celebrate, even if it’s something small. 🎉
    L. earning to Create Schedules: Visual schedules are essential to our daily life.
    M. indset: Keeping a calm and patient mindset helps Jacob feel more at ease.

    By using these strategies, we’ve been able to grow as a family and give Jacob the structure and support he needs to thrive.

     

    Journaling-helps-to-look-back-on-past-struggles-and-victories-
    Autism Daily Life can be difficult, journal to see your progress!
     Reflecting on the Journey 📔

    I also keep a journal to document our experiences. Writing down our daily challenges, feelings, and wins gives me a way to reflect on how far we’ve come. Looking back at times when we struggled, it’s clear that the consistent use of visual schedules, redirection, and our faith in God has made a real difference in our lives.

    When I feel overwhelmed, I go back to those journal entries to remind myself of God’s faithfulness and the progress we’ve made. It’s not always easy, but reflecting on our journey gives me the strength to keep going, knowing that each day we’re learning and growing as a family. I’m also sharing our experience to hopefully help others who are feeling frustrated or lost.

     

    Give Yourself and Your Child Grace 🌟💙

    We’ve come a long way from the early days of Jacob’s diagnosis, but that doesn’t mean every day is smooth. There are still tough moments, and emotions can change quickly in our home. Jacob can go from happy to grumpy in a matter of minutes, and some days it feels like we’re walking through fire. But I remind myself that faith, preparation, and kindness are what carry us through.

    If I can leave you with one piece of advice, it’s this: give yourself and your child grace. Don’t expect everything to be perfect. Practice using the strategies that work—like visual schedules and redirection—and trust that things will get better with time. The more you prepare, the more you’ll find moments of joy, even in the midst of challenges. You also don’t have to walk alone!

     

    Tips and Strategies for Navigating Autism Season Challenges 🌟

    1. Use Visual Schedules Consistently 🗓️

    Visual schedules are a lifeline for children with autism, especially when navigating seasonal transitions like moving from summer to fall. Consistency is key. By showing your child what to expect ahead of time, you reduce anxiety and help them adjust to new routines with ease. Whether it’s putting on a hoodie or switching up daily activities, make sure it’s reflected in their schedule.

    2. Practice Redirection 🎯

    When resistance or frustration arises, redirection can be your best tool. Shift the focus to something your child enjoys—whether it’s a favorite activity, snack, or even a beloved movie quote. This method helps steer them away from negative emotions and keeps the day moving forward.

    3. Celebrate Small Wins 🎉

    Even small victories deserve to be celebrated. If your child follows the visual schedule, give praise or a reward, no matter how minor the accomplishment may seem. Positive reinforcement builds confidence and encourages them to keep progressing. Celebrate wins as they come, and remember, progress is progress!

    4. Keep the CALM Framework in Mind ✨

    C. onsistent Action Forward: Maintaining routines and schedules helps Jacob feel more secure.
    A. lways Celebrate Wins: When Jacob follows the schedule, we celebrate, even if it’s something small. 🎉
    L. earning to Create Schedules: Visual schedules are essential to our daily life.
    M. indset: Keeping a calm and patient mindset helps Jacob feel more at ease.

    When you use the CALM framework, you’re giving your child the tools they need to navigate their day, while also giving yourself the space to be patient and kind.

    5. Incorporate Faith and Tradition 🙏

    If your family leans on faith, incorporating Bible verses, prayers, or spiritual practices into your child’s daily routine can create a sense of grounding. For Jacob, we use Bible verses as writing practice, and during holidays like Christmas and Easter, we use visual countdowns to help him understand important events. Building these traditions into your routine offers spiritual growth while maintaining structure.

    6. Journal Your Journey 📔

    Keeping a journal can help you track your child’s progress and reflect on how far you’ve come. When the tough days hit, looking back on past victories will remind you that you’re not alone in this journey. Journaling gives you the perspective needed to celebrate your wins and learn from the challenges. Remember the M in CALM is mindset-your mental health is important!

    7. Give Yourself and Your Child Grace 💙

    You won’t get everything right every day—and that’s okay. Give yourself the grace to make mistakes and learn from them. Give your child grace as they learn to navigate life with autism. By offering love, patience, and kindness, you’re making the journey more manageable for everyone.

    🧐 Struggling with daily routines and meltdowns?
    🌟 As an autism parent coach, I help you transform chaos into calm by creating strategies that work for your family. 🌟

    📅 Schedule a discovery call
    👉🏼 Visit my contact page to get started: https://educatingjacob.com/contact/

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