Neurodiversity

  • 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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  • I’m Questioning Life Choices? I Work With Learning Disabilities?

    Questioning-Choices-and-Decisions
    Being a Mom of special needs and Special Education Teacher is a lot!

    Questioning My Life Choices!

    Sipping coffee and questioning all my life choices! I am a special education teacher and mother of two boys. The youngest of which has autism. Why did I think it was a good idea to become a special education teacher and then come home to a special needs child?☕️

    To be honest, I just needed to feel I was doing something positive that would benefit my son. On those days when we were home and I was trying to teach him to read and all the things before I became a teacher, I thought, who is going to work this hard to make sure he gets it? I guess you know the answer, me! I’m going to work that hard and you can too! No special degree required. 🤦‍♀️

    Unlocking Potential

    In a world where education is key to success, it is disheartening to see individuals with learning disabilities face challenges in unlocking their full potential. However, with the right strategies and resources, it is possible to provide the support necessary for these individuals to thrive.

    This post delves into the realm of learning disabilities, exploring effective strategies and valuable resources that can make a significant difference in the lives of those with these challenges. From personalized learning plans and schedules to specialized teaching methods, we will uncover the tools and techniques that empower individuals with learning disabilities. 📚

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

    Let’s shed light on the best practices and approaches for supporting individuals with learning disabilities. Whether you are a teacher, parent, or caregiver, this blog post will equip you with the knowledge and resources needed to help unlock the potential of those with learning disabilities.

    Join us on this journey as we discover the power of understanding, empathy, and supportive strategies in enabling individuals with learning disabilities to reach their full potential.

    Understanding learning disabilities

    Learning disabilities are like solving a puzzle in the dark: challenging but not impossible! They’re not about intelligence, just a different way of processing information. Let’s decode the signs and strategies to support individuals with these unique abilities.🧠🧩

    Signs and symptoms of learning disabilities

    Detecting learning disabilities is like spotting clues in a detective movie . Look out for slow reading, spelling mysteries, and mathematical riddles. And don’t forget the attention to detail: struggles with organization, time management, and memory can be telltale signs! With Jacob it was obvious he had a learning disability because of the lack of language, sensory issues and his need for sameness.🕵️‍♂️

    1. Difficulty understanding and following instructions.
    2. Slow reading or difficulty reading aloud.
    3. Poor spelling and grammar.
    4. Inconsistent or inaccurate mathematical calculations.
    5. Difficulty organizing thoughts or expressing ideas in writing.
    6. Inattention, distractibility, or hyperactivity.
    7. Poor memory or difficulty retaining information.
    8. Struggles with time management and organization.

    Strategies for Success

    Cracking the code of learning disabilities requires a multi-tool approach. Personalized learning plans, multisensory instruction, and assistive technologies are like secret weapons in our toolkit. With a little creativity and a lot of patience, we can decode the challenges and unlock the potential within!🛠️

    Assistive technologies for learning disabilities

    Assistive technologies are like sidekicks in the superhero squad! Text-to-speech software, graphic organizers, and mind mapping tools level the playing field, making learning more accessible for everyone. With these gadgets in hand, individuals with learning disabilities can conquer any academic quest!🦸‍♀️

    Accommodations-Student-Support
    Students with Learning Disabilities will likely need Accommodations.
    Accommodations and modifications in the classroom

    Classrooms that provide appropriate accommodations and modifications can create an environment where students with learning disabilities can thrive. Here is a previous post that might help: The best schoolwork jobs and schedules for students at home in 2023! Here are some examples of accommodations and modifications in the classroom:

    1. Extended Time: Allowing extra time for completing assignments, tests, and exams can alleviate the pressure on students with learning disabilities.
    2. Preferential Seating: Placing students with learning disabilities in close proximity to the teacher can help minimize distractions and facilitate better focus.
    3. Visual Supports: Providing visual aids, such as charts, diagrams, and graphic organizers, can enhance understanding and retention of information.
    4. Chunking and Breaking Tasks: Breaking down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps can help students with learning disabilities approach assignments and projects more effectively.
    5. Alternative Assessments: Offering alternative assessments, such as oral presentations or projects, can provide students with learning disabilities an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in a format that suits their abilities.

    Resources for parents of individuals with learning disabilities:

    Jacob and I both benefit from the Autism Society of NC. Check them out if you are in NC. https://www.eventbrite.com/o/autism-society-of-north-carolina-6867453005

    Navigating the journey of learning disabilities is like embarking on a grand adventure. Parent support groups, educational advocacy organizations, and online workshops are like trusty maps, guiding us through uncharted territories. With these resources in hand, we can navigate the twists and turns with confidence!🚀

    Support services and organizations for individuals with learning disabilities

    Various support services and organizations are dedicated to assisting individuals with learning disabilities. These organizations provide valuable resources, support, and advocacy for individuals and their families. Here are some notable support services and organizations:

    1. The Arc: The Arc is a leading organization that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They offer a wide range of services, including education, employment, and community support.
    2. National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD): NCLD is a trusted resource for individuals with learning disabilities, their families, and educators. They provide information, advocacy, and support through their website, programs, and publications.
    3. Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA): LDA offers resources, support, and advocacy for individuals with learning disabilities. They provide educational materials, conferences, and training programs for parents, educators, and professionals.
    4. Council for Exceptional Children (CEC): CEC is an international professional organization dedicated to improving educational outcomes for individuals with disabilities. They offer resources, publications, and professional development opportunities for educators and professionals.
    Conclusion: Empowering individuals with learning disabilities
    C onsistant Action forward A lways Celebrate Wins L earning to Create Schedules M indset
    C.A.L.M.-Consistent Action Forward, Always Celebrate Wins, Learn to create schedules!, Mindset.

    Unlocking the potential of individuals with learning disabilities is like discovering hidden treasure: exhilarating and rewarding! By fostering understanding, providing support, and embracing diversity, we can create a world where everyone’s unique abilities are celebrated and valued. Let’s embark on this journey together, unlocking the endless possibilities that lie within!💎#Autism Challenges🧩

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