VisualSupports

  • 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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  • Blog, schedules

    3 ways American Sign Language helped my son with autism speak in short sentences?

    Jacob struggled with speaking and communication, but learning sign language helped and made communication and talking fun! Jacob’s language delays often meant frustration and meltdowns because he couldn’t tell us what he wanted. The added sensory and movement of sign language was just what Jake needed to learn and increase his vocabulary.

     

    As a parent, watching your child struggle to communicate can be heart-wrenching. We’ve been there. Our journey with Jacob has had its ups and downs, but introducing American Sign Language (ASL) into his routine was a game-changer. Not only did it provide him with a new way to express himself, but it also bridged the gap between his thoughts and words, reducing his frustration and boosting his confidence.

     

    In this blog post, I want to share how ASL helped Jacob speak in short sentences and how it can benefit your child too. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for new strategies to support your child’s communication, I hope our story can offer some helpful insights and encouragement.

    Below is a snippet of a Facebook Live I did talking about using ASL with Jacob. If you want to watch the whole thing (not long) go to: https://fb.me/e/4uUE8RRw5

    The Challenge of Expressive and Receptive Language

     

    Jacob had a hard time with expressive and receptive language, so telling us what he wanted was difficult. This communication barrier often led to frustration and meltdowns because he couldn’t express his needs clearly.

     

    The Fun of Learning with Signing Time

     

    Learning sign language with the Signing Time videos for kids was fun. We were able to learn together, and Jacob enjoyed being able to show off his new skills. It was also a way to get new videos and books from Signing Time! 📚

     

    Reducing Frustration and Meltdowns

     

    Jacob wasn’t very successful at getting us to understand what he wanted beyond putting our hand on something. This often led to a lot of meltdowns on his end because he was frustrated. It was very upsetting for the rest of the family too. Once he started learning sign language, the frustration lessened because he was able to communicate. 🙌

     

    Building Vocabulary and Language Skills

    Should you use sign language with your child with autism?
    Using Sign Language helped to build Jacob’s vocabulary!

    Learning sign language helped build Jacob’s vocabulary and recall of words he wanted to use. The added sensory input and movement when using sign language was just what Jacob needed to start building short sentences and increase his language skills.

     

    Using Schedules for Predictability and Structure

    The zippered bags contain school work and a short book to read.
    Jacob’s daily school bags for the week!

    Using schedules also helps Jacob because he needs predictability and structure in his day. Before he started reading and learning sign language, we used visual schedules. Visual supports provide a clear and consistent way for Jacob to understand what is expected of him each day.

     

    For those interested in learning more about using visuals to create predictable systems, here is an interesting podcast episode that you can check out: SLP Coffee Talk: Visual Supports Can Create Predictable Systems with Tara Tuchel https://music.amazon.in/podcasts/7bfbbd30-594a-4cce-a4cf-1eb7145aaed4/episodes/3c6dde90-afb4-4154-999f-9ac408c468bc/slp-coffee-talk-visual-supports-can-create-predictable-systems-with-tara-tuchel)

     

    Enhancing Verbal Communication 🗣️

     

    Learning sign language did not decrease Jacob’s speaking to us with his voice; it increased it dramatically. Here is an article I found that supports what we experienced with Jacob. How Sign Language Can Help Your AutisticChild https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/autistic-child-sign-language/. 

    If your child is nonverbal and doesn’t increase their vocalization and speaking with their voice, so what! Speaking with sign language is still speaking and communicating your wants and needs. 🤟

     

    Your child will do whatever is easiest for them, and that should be good enough for anyone! Every form of communication is valid, and the goal is to reduce frustration and increase understanding. Celebrate their progress, no matter the form it takes.

     

    Engaging with Signing Time

     

    Jacob had fun learning language with the Signing Time videos. You can explore their resources here: Signing Time https://www.signingtime.com. It looks like they have digital downloads now, but you can also buy DVDs from Amazon. 📺

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  • Blog, schedules

    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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