Visual Schedules

  • Blog, schedules

    Our New Years Challenge, the schedule we will use for our new habits!

    Hey there fellow parents and teachers! 🚀

    So, it’s that time of year again when we dust off our resolutions and set out to conquer schedules for super habits. 🎉 But let’s be real, folks, making New Year’s resolutions can sometimes feel like trying to organize a super-villain convention: chaotic, overwhelming, and filled with unexpected plot twists.

    Well, this year, I’m approaching it a bit differently, with a dash of humor and a sprinkle of superhero inspiration, because, let’s face it, life is way more fun with a little laughter and some superhero vibes. 

    Atomic Habits

    But fear not! I’ve been doing some reading, and I’m all fired up thanks to James Clear’s “Atomic Habits.” 💪 If you haven’t checked it out yet, it’s like the superhero manual for mastering habits.

    Jacob’s a superhero aficionado. You name it, he’s into it. Marvel, DC, you get the drift. And me, I’m a bona fide “boy mom” who prefers action and comedy over drama any day (except during the holiday season when sappiness is allowed).

    But I digress. What I’m getting at is this: I’m taking a leaf out of Jacob’s book, quite literally. I’m going to use one of his visual schedules to cultivate some new habits for myself. Simple, right?

    Jacob’s new items to the schedule is straightforward: add green vegetables daily, budget money, exercise. It’s about focusing on what works and making it a habit. Remember what we talked about last week? Don’t complicate things; use more of what works and keep it simple. Can’t remember here’s a link to last weeks post: 3 New Year’s resolutions for the family? Lol, they have to do with autism and schedules!

    New items to add to the daily schedule
    These 3 items will be added to the daily schedule!

    It’s advice we’ve all heard countless times – keep it simple. And you know what? It’s absolutely true. If a schedule or habit is too complicated, we won’t experience enough success to make a lasting change.

    🎬 So, why not apply the magic of schedules to our New Year’s challenge?

    Unlocking Super Habits – Jacob’s Way

    Make exercise fun!
    Make exercise fun!

    Jacob’s schedule will be a breeze: eat more green veggies, manage his budget (he’s quite the financial wizard), and keep up with his daily exercise (which often involves impressive superhero moves). 🥦💰💪

    And for me? Well, I’ve learned that sometimes, simpler is better. No need to create complicated, Avengers-level schedules for ourselves. 🦸‍♀️🦸‍♂️

    Unlocking Super Habits – My Way

    3 New Habits for 2024
    3 New Habits for 2024, that I want as a daily task that I do automatically.

    Now, let’s talk about my new habits and schedule. I’m keeping it simple, just like Jacob’s. My schedule will include read my bible, exercise, and work on my business. It’s a back-to-basics approach, reminiscent of the schedules I used when Jake was just a little guy of 4 or 5.

    Remember that post by Mel Robbins where she shared a simple schedule? It caught my eye, and I couldn’t help but comment, “Yes!” Why complicate things if something works and is simple? Sometimes, less really is more.

    So, here’s the deal – I’m inviting you to join us in this challenge. Let’s use the same simple schedule, just like the good ol’ days, to add some new habits that will supercharge our 2024. Tag us in your posts on Instagram or Facebook; let’s share this journey together.🏋️‍♀️🥗💼

    Remember, it’s all about building on what works. Just like in a good superhero sequel, we should reflect on our successes and do more of that. No need to complicate things. 🎥

    We’ve all heard the advice to “keep it simple,” and trust me, it’s superhero wisdom! If it’s simple and it works, that’s all you need. 🙌

    Quest for better habits in 2024

    So, there you have it, fellow superheroes in the making. It’s time to simplify, to unlock those super habits for 2024. No capes required, just a simple schedule and the determination to make positive changes.

    Let’s embark on this adventure together, just like the heroes we are. Here’s to laughter, simplicity, and a fantastic year ahead. Stay tuned for updates, and don’t forget to tag us in your posts. Let’s rock this year like the superheroes we were born to be.

    Our challenge to you: Join us in the quest for better habits in 2024! Create your own simple schedule and tag us on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/educatingjacob/ or Facebook. Let’s support each other on this journey to super habits and a super year ahead. 🌟💥 #SuperHabits2024

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    Empowering Special Needs Children with Self-Care Skills: Our Inspiring Journey

    Self-Care for Special Needs
    For Jacob pictures in schedules were a game changer!

    Our Story: A Tale of Triumph over Autism’s Language Labyrinth

    Meet Jacob, our fiercely independent son who, thanks to his autism, had a unique way of getting his point across. Instead of words, he’d take us by the hand and lead us to what he wanted. At first, we were told, “Boys develop speech later,” but as time passed, we learned it wasn’t that simple.

    These additional signs, such as being solitary, hand flapping when excited, and specific preferences for clothing and food, were further indications of Jacob’s unique needs and characteristics.

    Early Signs and Diagnosis

    Keep calm!

    Jacob’s first language was independence. He’d approach us when he needed something, but conversation? Not his forte. Ear infections added to the puzzle – after all, it’s hard to talk when you can’t hear. Then, the revelation: autism. Suddenly, language became an intricate maze for our little Jacob.

    Jacob’s speech therapy was eventually approved, but the wait lasted for six long months before a spot opened up. When it finally did, the therapist was exceptional. She recognized things that I had overlooked and strongly suggested that I take Jacob to TEACCH for evaluation and additional insights into why speech was still eluding him.

    Seeking Help and Support

    Our journey to empower Jacob began with an autism diagnosis from a TEACCH psychiatrist (yes, they’re real-life superheroes). They offered priceless advice: join every waiting list, apply for every service, and sift through the options later. It was a waiting game, but oh, the wisdom!

    After much consideration, we decided to accept the services that would involve workers coming to our house and even taking Jacob out into the community. This approach was aimed at helping him generalize skills and become an integrated part of both our family and the community. It was a challenging path, as it took five long years on a waiting list, and there were numerous adjustments for Jake and the entire family. However, the results were incredibly rewarding.

    Working together as a team, we utilized various supports and schedules to aid Jacob in learning and managing his self-care routines. This collective effort empowered him to become more independent over time.

    The Power of Visual Schedules

    Jacob with laundry, dishes and movies when chores are done.
    Chores and movie when complete!

    Now, picture this: I, a non-teacher, tasked with creating boxes of coins and schedules. Initially baffled, I wondered if we were training a tiny bank teller. Yet, I stuck with it. Our home soon resembled a museum of pictures, schedules, and how-to guides. Words were too much for Jacob; he needed visuals to navigate life’s map.

    Following Jacob’s diagnosis, I made a significant life change. I returned to school, left my job, and set out on a new career path: becoming a Special Education teacher. My driving force was the strong desire to not only assist my son but also other mothers who found themselves in a similar situation, feeling clueless about how to support their children.

    During my time in school, while still juggling work commitments, I made the life-altering decision to homeschool Jacob. The details of that adventure are a story for another day, but I can proudly say that it was a success!

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

    And here came the transformation. Our house became a non-verbal wonderland, complete with sign language. Sign language, you say? Wasn’t that a no-no for speech development? Not for us. Sign language became our bridge to speech, a magical catalyst. Jacob began speaking when he saw and used signs, proving that sometimes more communication tools are better.

    Collaboration and Progress

    Navigating the web, we found TEACCH and Do2Learn, our autism knowledge goldmines. Therapists and professionals became our partners, sharing victories and tips to help Jacob progress. Teamwork made the dream work. Need more help with schedules see this previous post:“How To Create A Personalized Schedule For Children With Autism”

    https://educatingjacob.com/blog/page/4/

    In parting, I’ll share a simple yet powerful strategy: visual sequences. For instance, laminating a card with toothbrushing steps, placed by the sink, is a game-changer. Less talk, more action! These strategies not only transform your child’s life but also bring smiles and happiness to the whole family. Here is link for the web site mentioned that will help with the pictures. https://do2learn.com/picturecards/printcards/activities_everyday.htm

    The information on TEACCH is: https://teacch.com/

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