Autism Parenting: Help for Stressed Relationships

Autism-parenting

Having a child with autism, Down syndrome or any other type of special needs brings all kinds of new realities into your life. Some can be amazing – like gaining a whole new community of people you may have never met before. But other things can definitely add stress to the lives of autism parents. From more doctor appointments to navigating special education and IEPs, to scheduling therapies – all of these new realities can put stress on your relationships with your spouse, your family members and your friends.

With the help of Allie Young-Rivard, LLPC, we’ve compiled some information and resources to help autism parents with relationships that may be under stress.

Marriage – The odds are NOT stacked against you

There’s an often-quoted statistic that the divorce rate among parents who have a child with autism is around 80%. Or it’s at least quoted as being higher than the general population. This outdated figure was based on older, smaller studies, which can often lead to inaccurate data.

The Interactive Autism Network, which connects the autism community and researchers, breaks down the updated research findings in their article Under a Looking Glass: What’s the Truth About Autism and Marriage?:

“Researchers in Baltimore investigated the supposed 80 percent divorce rate for parents of a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Unlike other studies, this one was particularly large – using data from almost 78,000 parents, 913 of whom had a child with autism – and included families from across the United States. The bigger the study, the less likely the results are due to chance or something unique about the pool of people studied. The researchers, from Kennedy Krieger Institute and Johns Hopkins University, found no evidence of an 80 percent divorce rate.9 In fact, parents of children with autism split up as often as parents of children who don’t have autism, according to their research.”

We hope this new information encourages you that even though you may face some stress in your marriage due to your child’s diagnosis, it doesn’t automatically mean your marriage is doomed because of autism. If your marriage is struggling, ask for help before it’s too late.

When Divorce Does Happen

Even with this hopeful news for couples who have an autistic child, there are still a lot of marriages under stress. Deciding to divorce is complex and difficult. This life-altering course can cause intense anxiety. It can also cause worry about how the decision to separate will affect your children. For parents of children with special needs, the choice to separate and/or divorce is particularly difficult because of the added needs and responsibilities.

Support for Your Child

Many children on the autism spectrum have difficulty adapting to change. So naturally it is common for parents to worry how their child will acclimate to their new reality, routine and living situation. It is important to prepare your child for the changes that are going to happen.  Providing your child with a visual schedule that outlines the custody arrangements will help them know what to expect. Having consistency at both houses will also be helpful. Work together to have a similar calendar at both locations that shows your child’s daily routines and notes what house he or she will be at. By using tools that prepare them you can help them understand their new routine and hopefully reduce some anxiety. Additionally, talking about the schedule ahead of time to avoid surprises is beneficial for everyone involved.

Another helpful idea is to create a social story explaining the changes and what to expect. If your child receives ABA therapy, talk with their BCBA about creating a personalized social story to prepare them for their new routine and the changes in their family situation.

Lastly, depending on the age of the child and their communication ability, seeking a therapist who specializes in adjustment could be helpful. We have counselors on our team who work with children and teens on the autism spectrum. Seeing an experienced therapist can help children process their new family dynamics and adjust to the changes. Please contact us if you would like to pursue counseling for your child.

Co-parenting

It is important for a divorced couple to remember that is it about the child (or children). The definition of co-parenting is:

Verb; (especially of a separated or unmarried couple) share the duties of parenting (a child).

Keeping your focus on doing what is best for your child can help both parents stay on track and follow through on maintaining routines. Establishing and upholding proper communication with your former spouse will ensure support and success for your child. If communication with your ex is difficult, seek out family counseling and/or individual therapy if your former spouse is unwilling to join you. Counseling can help you learn how best to work together for the common interest of your child.

Family or Friends Who Don’t Understand Your Child’s Unique Needs

When your child is diagnosed with a disability it can often feel like you’re alone. Those close to you may not understand what you’re going through as you navigate therapies, doctors, support at school and situations that are difficult for your child. Some may spend less time with you and your family. This often stems from not really understanding the diagnosis. When a family member or close friend expresses criticism of your child’s behavior, or of you as a parent, it’s important to address it.

You can first try to explain what your child’s diagnosis means, how it impacts them medically, emotionally, behaviorally, etc. Explain the therapies and medical treatments they are receiving and why. Talk about what their education situation is like and how it benefits them. If your child has sensory issues, repetitive behaviors or stimming, difficulty with change, etc, it’s good to take time to explain them to your family. Being open and honest can help your loved ones understand and hopefully lead to support from them. 

Is It Time To Set Boundaries?

If, however, after explaining all of these things, they isolate you or stop talking with you, first know that it’s not you or your child. It is their inability to be sensitive and understanding of differences and supportive of those with unique needs. If you are facing criticism or lack of understanding toward your child, you may need to establish boundaries. This may mean limiting time spent at family gatherings, or not taking your kids to their grandparents’ house.

Whatever the situation you are facing, it’s important to remove yourself from unsupportive relationships and find support from others in similar situations. Setting boundaries with unsupportive family members can be tough, but putting your mental health and the child’s well being first is beneficial for everyone. Additionally, a professional counselor can help you develop coping skills to navigate strained relationships, as well as help you process your own feelings regarding your child’s diagnosis.

We hope you’ve found this information and ideas for autism parents helpful as you encounter stress in various relationships. And if you find you need some outside help and perspective, please reach out to us!

Know others who would benefit from reading this? Use the buttons below to share it with your community:

The Benefits of a MiABLE Account for Your Child with a Disability

Raising and caring for a child with a disability oftentimes comes with added expenses. Things like extra medical costs, therapies, academic tutoring, assistive technology and much more come into play. Getting help to cover these additional expenses can be difficult. This is especially so when you have an average income and don’t qualify to receive government support for your child with a disability. When thinking about your child’s future and whether they will be able to support themselves, it can become overwhelming for parents to plan for, let alone manage the here and now.

The state an individual lives in and the disability they have largely determines the financial rules and restrictions they must follow. A bill was passed in certain states that requires employees to pay disabled workers at least minimum wage. Still, many disabled people must follow intricate rules to receive the benefits they need to successfully care for themselves.

So how can a person with a disability pay for all their daily living expenses like housing, food, education, transportation, ect., if they can’t earn a living wage, or are unable to? And on top of that, they risk losing any government benefits if they have “too much” money in their name.

Enter the ABLE Act

Thankfully, Congress passed the ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) Act in 2014. The ABLE Act amends Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Service Code of 1986 to create tax-free savings accounts for individuals with disabilities. Here is the official description of the intent of the ABLE Act from the ABLE National Resource Center:

“By making tax-free savings accounts available to cover qualified disability-related expenses (including education, housing and transportation), this law aims to ease financial strains faced by individuals with disabilities. Additionally, the funds contributed into these accounts will not negatively impact the person’s eligibility for public benefits, such as Medicaid. The funds in these accounts don’t replace benefits provided through private insurances, the Medicaid program, the Supplemental Security Income program, the beneficiary’s employment and other sources. Instead, the funds supplement these benefits.”

A Powerful Tool for Michigan Families

Michigan established our MiABLE program back in 2016. We had the representative from the Michigan Department of Treasury here in our clinics to familiarize families on the benefits of having a MiABLE account for their child with a disability. Scott de Varona shared all the specifics of how the program works, how to set up an account and answered a plethora of questions from parents.

Here are a few of the highlights:

  • To be eligible, individuals must become disabled before the age of 26. They can prove their eligibility one of three ways: eligible for SSI or SSDI because of a disability (but do not have to be drawing on those benefits), have a condition listed on SSA Compassionate Allowances List, or self-certification with a physician diagnosis and documentation.
  • Qualified Disability Expenses (QDE) include much more than the original 529 College Savings Plans. MiABLE accounts can be used to pay for the expenses of everyday living for the person with the disability. QDE’s include: education, housing, transportation, employment training programs, assistive technology, personal support services, healthcare and medical costs, financial management services, legal fees, and end-of-life expenses.
  • The maximum contribution per year is $17,000. And account holders can have up to $100,000 in an ABLE account before their SSI benefits may be suspended. Once the account falls back below the $100,000, SSI benefits can resume.
  • ABLE assets are excluded for Medicaid eligibility. There is no asset threshold as there is for SSI benefits.
  • Investment options include a range of conservative to aggressive stock. Additionally, for those who want easy access to use their account now, there is a money market savings account with a debit card option.
  • If you have a Financial Advisor, you can allow them to manage your investment options. They need to complete the Agent Assisted Enrollment Form.
  • A MiABLE account doesn’t replace a Special Needs Trust. It’s another “tool in the toolbelt” to provide for an adult or child with a disability.

Tax Benefits

  • ABLE accounts are funded with after-tax contributions and can grow tax-free when used for qualifying disability expenses.
  • In addition, the State of Michigan features one of the largest tax deductions for contributions to an ABLE account. Single filers can receive a $5,000 tax deduction and a married couple filing jointly can receive a $10,000 tax deduction.
  • Many parents may have already set up a 529 College Savings Plan for their child before they were diagnosed with a disability. Those funds can be transferred to an ABLE account without penalty, and then can be used for a broad range of expenses!
  • Others can contribute to an individual’s MiABLE account to help it grow. Family members and friends can make contributions through the online portal or by mailing in a check. And if they are Michigan residents, they can take advantage of the tax deduction, too. Additionally, some states offer a deduction to ABLE account contributions in other states.

The Greatest Benefit

There are so many benefits to creating a MiABLE account for a child or young adult with a disability. But the greatest benefit has to be empowering disabled individuals to save for their future and creating a way for them to truly achieve a better life experience!

For more information, visit the MiABLE website or call them to have your questions answered: 844-656-7225. And the ABLE National Resource Center has a lot of helpful information too.

And for more information about Healing Haven and the services we provide families of children with autism and other special needs, visit Our Services page.

Autism Resources in Michigan

aaom

Autism Resources in Michigan: Autism Alliance of Michigan

The annual Autism Alliance of Michigan Navigating Autism Today Conference is always important for us to be a part of. It’s a wonderful event that provides valuable autism resources. It also offers encouragement for families and caregivers. Consequently, we are regularly reminded of what a wonderful organization we have here in Michigan advocating for individuals and families impacted by autism.

The Navigating Autism Today Conference is free for caregivers – a unique benefit not often offered by conferences. Presentation topics range from financial / life planning and explanations of the MiABLE act, to mental health issues. There are also sessions on communication, behavior, learning and more. If you have not attended, definitely plan to check it out next year. The breadth of autism resources is invaluable.

Celebrating their 10th anniversary this year, the AAOM continues to provide “help, hope, and answers”. They do this through raising community expectations, standards of care, and access to essential services. They tirelessly advocate for important legislation, safe and inclusive environments and system reform throughout the state of Michigan.

Here are just a few of the programs and services offered by the Autism Alliance of Michigan:

MiNavigator

“MiNavigator was created to provide a professional case management service to Michigan families affected by autism. It is staffed by a team of autism specialists with expertise in many fields, including clinical, educational, insurance, vocational, public safety, policy, and legal. Our autism specialists work one-on-one with each family to help them navigate and overcome the many barriers they face when trying to access care and support for their loved one affected by autism.”

A Call to Action

The MiNavigator program has served over 5,000 families across the state of Michigan and is at risk of losing critical state funding. You can help by letting your state representative and senator know you want funding approved for this important program. Here is more information provided by the Autism Alliance of Michigan.

Ask an Expert

Website visitors are able to ask one of the AAOM experts a question you or a loved one is facing in any one of four categories: legal, advocacy, clinical and education. Additionally, you can also review answers to previously submitted questions.

Employment

Advocating for better employment opportunities for individuals with autism, the AAOM provides resources for employers to better understand autism. With the unemployment rate for individuals with disabilities so high, the AAOM educates employers on the value and benefits of hiring autistic workers. The AAOM’s philosophy regarding employment of individuals with autism is: “All citizens have the right to work. No perceived obstacle, prejudice or lack of awareness should deny any person that opportunity.” So whether you are an employer or a job seeker with autism, there are resources for you.

Events

From the annual Navigating Autism Today conference to the Michigan Shines for Autism Gala, to the Hero Walk at the Detroit Zoo, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved and connect with others through AAOM’s events.

Neighborhood Directory

The Neighborhood Directory is an online portal to search by category and location for a variety of autism resources, therapy providers, autism friendly businesses, adult services and more. As a result, you can quickly find a lot of helpful information and providers easily and quickly.

In addition to the above, there are many more resources available on the AAOM website for both caregivers and professionals. It’s easy to see why it’s our go-to resource for all things autism in Michigan!

If you found this information helpful, we’d love it if you’d share it with your network!

Counseling and Autism

counseling

The Value of Counseling for Families Impacted by Autism

Receiving an autism diagnosis can result in a lot of uncertainty, anxiety and stress for parents, as well as for the child diagnosed and their siblings. So appropriately, counseling and autism go together like macaroni and cheese. When Healing Haven started in 2010, our foundational programs were ABA therapy and stress management services. We later added more programs, expanding the ages we provide ABA for, and providing additional supports like Speech Therapy, Counseling, Occupational Therapy and Academic Instruction.

Stress management for parents of children with special needs is critical, as “parent well-being increases child well-being”. Research tells us that parents can be effective agents of change for their children’s behaviors. Additionally, children and teens with autism often need help addressing their emotional needs, anxiety, and social challenges.

Our counseling services cover a wide range of needs. For parents we help them navigate this autism diagnosis, manage stress, and learn behavioral modification skills. For the child with autism we help them learn skills to manage their emotions and interact in the world around them. Additionally, we help siblings process the emotions that come from having a brother or sister on the spectrum and provide them with strategies to cope.

Meet Our Counselor

Our onsite therapist, Danielle Harrison, MA, LPC, has been working with families impacted by autism and other special needs since 2012. She started as an ABA therapist while in her undergraduate psychology program. After receiving her master’s in counseling she transitioned to the role of Counselor. Her experience in ABA therapy is a valuable tool that Danielle uses often in her counseling sessions, whether it’s with children, or while providing Parent Training.

Danielle working with her
Social Skills Group

Danielle uses techniques of applied behavior analysis to shape behaviors in children with autism. She uses Cognitive Behavior Therapy as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help them work through the emotions that may be causing them trouble. She also provides Parent Training to help families understand the concepts of reinforcement and discipline in an effort to help them set up reinforcement systems at home.

Some clients may not have an official autism diagnosis, but struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD or other issues. She is not only able to work with the child, but also able to equip parents to manage emotions and reduce disruptive behaviors.

Navigating the Diagnosis

Danielle enjoys helping parents work through their emotions to help them accept their child’s diagnosis. Once a parent is able to come to terms with their child’s deficits and appreciates their strengths, their stress often lessens and their relationship with their child strengthens.

Another aspect of Danielle’s work is helping teens with autism who struggle with belonging, finding friends at school, and relating with their peers.

The Role of Advocate

Danielle says the most fulfilling aspect of her job is being an advocate for her children and teens. She enjoys using her skill set to collaborate with families and schools to help her clients reach their maximum potential.

A Front Seat to Growth

We have observed first hand the growth in so many of Danielle’s clients. For example, she has a client for which she has worked with over the past seven years. When she started, the child was only 3 years old and unable to communicate her emotions, often leading to meltdowns. Now at the age of 10 she is able to effectively communicate her wants and needs. If she becomes upset, she now has the skills to calm down in under 10 minutes verses two to three hours. Witnessing that kind of growth is so motivating for Danielle.

Another incubator for personal growth is the social skills group Danielle leads. The group of elementary age clients has been together for two years. When they first started they worked on basic social skills. Now they have formed real friendships. They support each other when one of them is upset. The skills they have learned here have helped them in their everyday environments at home and at school. Danielle hopes to see this group stay together as they move into their teen years.

In Need of Help?

As you can see, counseling has broad benefits in the autism world. If you are a parent in need of help for yourself, or your child is struggling with autism, ADHD, depression or anxiety, we are here to help! Just fill out the Contact Us form and we will get back with you!

How to Explain Autism to Neurotypical Children

explaining-autism

Explaining Autism to Neurotypical Children

As the rate of autism diagnoses increases, children and teens undoubtedly know, or have encountered, someone with autism in their schools, in their neighborhoods, or in their own family. As a result, kids most likely have noticed some differences. They may have wondered: “Why is he covering his ears?” “Why won’t he talk to me?” “Why does she move her hands like that?”

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a complex condition that many adults have difficulty understanding. So how can children learn to comprehend the many facets of this condition when they see it in their siblings or peers? We have put together some helpful tips and resources to aid you in explaining autism to neurotypical children in your family, your classroom and your community.

Be Honest

If your child, neighbor or student in your classroom asks some of these questions, it’s important to answer them. When questions go unanswered or they are told not to ask things like that, not only do we squelch their innate curiosity of the world around them, but it can lead to inaccurate or negative assumptions. They may think their friend is crazy or their sister doesn’t like them. By answering their questions you pave the way to understanding autism instead of allowing misconceptions or fear to take root in the unknown.

What is Autism?

As explained by Mary L Gavin, MD on KidsHealth.org, “Autism spectrum disorder is a difference in the way a kid’s brain develops. Kids with autism may have trouble understanding the world around them.” One of the most common questions from kids is “Can I catch autism?” So it’s important to explain that autism can’t be caught like the flu.

Use simple terminology to describe autism to neurotypical children. A classmate or friend with autism might have trouble talking and learning the meaning of words. They may struggle making friends or fitting in. They may not handle changes easily, like trying new foods or having a substitute teacher. Additionally, they may have trouble dealing with loud noises, bright lights, or busy hallways.

Some kids with autism might move in an unusual way (like flapping their hands, or rocking back and forth) or do the same thing over and over (like saying the same word).

And because autism is a spectrum or range, some autistic kids may have a few struggles, or they may have a lot of these struggles. As a result, some kids need a little bit of help, and others might need a lot of help with learning and doing everyday activities.

Important Reminders

When you have conversations with students or siblings, here are a few recommendations to keep in mind.

Focus on the positive

Talk about the child’s strengths, abilities and interests, not just on their struggles. Using people-first language puts the focus on the individual and not their diagnosis. This also helps them view autism through a more positive lens. If possible, identify a common interest to demonstrate ways they can connect with their classmate or sibling.

Encourage questions

A child’s curiosity and questions are not rude. When you answer a child’s questions in a straightforward manner, they will learn from your example to be open and accepting. Also be sure to communicate that autism is not something to fear and it doesn’t need to be kept a secret.

We all are unique

Every one of us looks different and has our own unique strengths and weaknesses. And with autism being a spectrum, there are no two kids with autism that are alike. So it’s important to not lump them all together. Rather, get to know the individual, and as mentioned above, find things you may have common with them.

The Gaming System Analogy

A mom spoke with her son’s 3rd grade class about autism and used an analogy that has become quite popular over the years since. Essentially, she talked about how video game devices have different operating systems. You can’t play an Xbox game on a Nintendo because it can’t process the information. So just like video game systems, people with autism can’t process information in the same way a neurotypical person does. It’s not bad, just different. You can read the full account on her blog here.

Explaining a Sensory Meltdown to a Child

Witnessing a sensory meltdown can be confusing and even upsetting for adults, let alone kids. So explaining what a sensory meltdown is can help a child process what they’ve seen. It’s not a temper tantrum when they aren’t getting their way. A sensory meltdown is a feeling of being overwhelmed – by sounds, smells, lights, spaces. There is too much happening around them and their brain can’t process it. Sometimes our brains need a break from what’s going on around us. But as the sibling or friend gets to know what stimuli the person with autism reacts too, they can become an ally in helping them if they become overwhelmed.  

Using Stories to Explain Autism

A story can be a powerful way to communicate ideas and messages to children. Thankfully, there are many books created to explain autism and help kids understand it. Here are just a few:

Professional Help

Even after you explain autism to siblings of autistic children, they can benefit from being able to process their emotions with a professional. We have programs that serve the entire family including counseling for siblings of autistic children. For more information, fill out the Contact Us form and a member of our team will get back with you.

If you found this information helpful, we’d love it if you’d share it with your network!

Healing Haven Open House 2019

open-house

Get an Inside Look at Our Innovative ABA Therapy Clinics

Whether you’re a parent of a child with autism, a professional working with the autism community, or are interested in a career in ABA therapy, we invite you to tour our innovative clinics in Madison Heights. Join us at our Open House Friday, February 1, from 7-8:30 PM. You’ll experience firsthand the well-appointed therapy rooms that are the backdrop for the depth of the services we offer.

What sets Healing Haven apart among ABA therapy providers?

We’ve been providing ABA therapy for 8 years. And we continue to expand our services as the needs of our clients change. In addition to ABA therapy, we also provide Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Counseling, Stress Management, and Parent Training. We also just launched our Academic Instruction Program that supports students who are struggling in their current learning environments.

In May 2018 we opened our second clinic designed to serve individuals up to 16 years old. In addition to building social & communication skills through one-on-one and group therapy, we also provide pre-vocational skill development.

HH open house
HH open house
sensory room
HH open house

Additionally, in December 2018 we expanded our Speech Therapy rooms to better service our clients and the demand for speech therapy services.

As the need grows for autism therapy services, we are committed to helping families impacted through our high-quality services – all in one location.

Careers that make a difference every day

If you are considering a career working with individuals with autism, this Open House is a great opportunity for you. Come learn about our current open positions, tour our work environment, learn about the one-on-one training we provide, and meet members of our leadership team.

We’d love for you to join us Friday, February 1! Enjoy some refreshments, take a tour and meet members of our team. We’ll also have a special guest sharing her journey living with autism. Katie was our founder Jamie McGillivary’s first client she ever worked with. Jamie’s experience with Katie is what set the path for her academic studies and her career in ABA Therapy. Katie’s story will inspire guests to not underestimate individuals with autism and realize the part we all play in helping them achieve their dreams!

This may be the night that changes the direction of your child’s life…and yours!

On Facebook? Let us know if you plan to attend!

Gift Ideas for Kids with Autism

The holiday season also means gift-giving season for many. And for families who have someone with autism, finding a great gift may seem daunting. So we’ve asked our expert staff for their top picks of gift ideas for kids and teens with autism. We’ve compiled quite a varied list, so hopefully there’s at least one item that will fit your loved one!

Get Moving Gifts

A mini-trampoline with a handlebar is on our Occupational Therapist’s list because it provides a great way to improve your child’s motor skills, coordination and sensory processing. The repetitive bouncing motion helps children learn over time how to read impulses from their different sensory systems. It can be used inside during the cold winter months and outside during the summer.

One of our BCBA’s picks for a great holiday gift is a body sock. Often used by Occupational Therapists, they can also be a wonderful toy and tool at home. A body sock provides resistance and calming deep pressure input to the proprioceptive and tactile systems. They are used for sensory regulation, calming kids who may be overwhelmed or overstimulated. It’s also great for helping kids with spatial awareness – where their body is in space. Check out this blog post from The Inspired Tree House for some ideas on how you can use a body sock with your child.

A lightweight tunnel for kids to crawl through helps develop arm and leg muscles and gross motor skills. It also collapses down for easy storage at home.

Calming/Sensory Gifts

Weighted blankets have become quite popular in recent years. One of our OT’s recommends them because of the deep touch pressure they provide. Weighted blankets can help kids with anxiety, autism, sensory processing disorder, stress and poor sleep. Choose a blanket weight corresponding with your child’s weight – 8-12% of total body weight. So a 5lb. blanket is recommended for a 42-63lb child. And this example is easily machine washable while providing soft, tactile input.

One of our former ABA Therapists turned counselor recommends this 3D printed moon design light for the calming light it provides for your child’s bedroom.

Clothes are always a useful and practical gift. When shopping for kids and teens with autism, another one of our BCBA’s recommends choosing cotton clothes that have no tags. And some companies, like Target and Tommy Hilfiger, are coming out with adaptive clothing lines designed for those with sensory and fine motor needs.

Fine Motor

A great way to help your child work independently at home, while also working on fine motor and visual integration are jigsaw puzzles. One of our BCBAs recommends choosing puzzles with a favorite character to keep their interest – like this Marvel Comics puzzle, or this Disney set. And puzzles are also a great way to encourage social interaction when they work with a peer.

Kinetic sand (or moon sand) sticks to itself, but not to your hands or other things. Recommended by one of our Occupational Therapists, this is a great tactile activity – kids can squeeze it, shape it and create things without making a huge mess. And unlike Playdough, this Kinetic sand is gluten free, which is helpful for the many individuals with autism who adhere to specific diets.

Stocking Stuffers

  • The ultimate fidget spinner – this Atesson spinner has stainless steel bearings and can spin for 4-10 minutes!
  • Therapy putty is a go-to choice for occupational and behavior therapists for the fine motor building and tactile input it provides.
  • Many kids with autism seek oral motor input. These chew brick necklaces are both popular and functional.

We hope these ideas help you find not only a gift that is helpful for your child, grandchild, niece or nephew, but also something they will have fun with! And if you have a gift idea for someone with autism, please share it in the comments below!

Six Great Books for Parents of Autistic Children

Books-for-Parents
books for parents

We meet with families every week who just received a diagnosis of autism for their child. We also work with parents of autistic children who are further along in their journey of raising their child. But no matter where you’re at, we see the need for new and helpful resources. So we’ve compiled this list of diverse books that can help parents at various stages with their kids. And three of the books feature authors who happen to have autism. How cool is that?!

Six Great Books for Parents of Autistic Children

10 Things Every Child With Autism Wishes You Knew by Ellen Notbohm

This award-winning book is often one of the first resources recommended to read after your child receives an autism diagnosis. As Ellen is the parent of a children with autism and ADHD, she understands. In the latest edition of this book, she expands upon topics of communication behavior issues, as well as social processing skills. This book helps readers understand the needs and the potential of every autistic child. It is available on Amazon in several formats.

Autism: How to raise a happy autistic child by Jessie Hewitson

Written by a personal finance writer for The Times and mother of an autistic son, this guide provides powerful information for anyone raising a child with autism. With many great reviews from parents and publications alike, it is unique in that it utilizes information and tips from various perspectives, such as other parents, autistic adults, professionals, and academics. This book is everything you need and more – especially if you’re a parent new to the world of raising an autistic child and aren’t sure where to start. The Kindle or Paperback copy can be found on Amazon.

Wrightslaw: From Emotions to Advocacy: The Special Education Survival Guide by Pam & Pete Wright

In addition to navigating your child’s autism diagnosis, you will also be entering the world of special education and IEP’s. But where do you start to learn in the ins-and-outs of special ed law?  What do FAPE (Free and Appropriate Public Education) and LRE (Least Restrictive Environment) actually mean? This book, from the founders of Wrightslaw, will help empower you to enter meetings with your child’s school ready to advocate for what they need, as well as what they are legally entitled to.

Autistic Authors

The Reason I Jump by Naoki Higashida

Named one of the best books of the year by NPR, The Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg Business, The Reason I Jump is written by a thirteen-year-old boy with autism. Naoki shares with honesty his unique point of view on autism  and life itself. As a result, the book provides an incredible lens into how an autistic mind thinks, feels, perceives and responds to the world around him. The Reason I Jump is available on Amazon.

Six-Word Lessons On Growing Up Autistic by Trevor Pacelli

Trevor is a young adult who was diagnosed with autism at the age of 5. He is aware that “growing up autistic” was challenging for himself and his family. For that reason he wrote a book to help others. Trevor provides 100 short, practical tips to help understand the autistic person in your life. He addresses 5 topics: sensitivity, loneliness, sudden changes, disciplining and not underestimating capabilities. You can learn more about Trevor through his website growingupautistic.com, as well as purchase his book from Amazon.

A Full Life with Autism: From Learning to Forming Relationships to Achieving Independence by Chantal Sicile-Kira and Jeremy Sicile-Kira

Parents of an autistic child often wonder: Will my child have friends? How will my child communicate? Will my child be able to work? And is living independently an option when they grow up? This book by a mother-son duo shares what it takes to raise your child and transition them to adulthood. Most noteworthy is the authors have lived this, as co-author Jeremy is on the autism spectrum. Copies are available from Amazon.

We hope you found this list of books helpful as you navigate raising your autistic child. If you have any other books you recommend, please let us know in the comments!

And here some more resources you may find helpful.

Back to School Tips for Kids with Autism

Back-to-School-Tips_vs2
back to school

Back to school is fast approaching here in Michigan. This time of year can be both exciting and stressful, especially for children with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, Down syndrome, or other developmental needs.

Children can have anxiety about new or possibly stressful situations just like adults! Remember how you’ve felt starting a new job or meeting new people. Now multiply that feeling by 100… or 1000, if you struggle with learning, communication and social interactions!

Parents of kids with autism and other special needs know how critical it is to be involved in your child’s education. So you may already be thinking about ways to help your child have a successful start to the new school year. But here are some tips to ease the transition back to school, for you and your child. Not all of these will apply to your child or situation. But there should be a few that will benefit your child’s transition.

Preparing Your Child:

back to school

A bit of planning ahead can make a world of difference in how your child acclimates to the new school year.

  • Talk about school often with your child. Look at pictures of friends and school activities from the previous year to encourage conversation about school. And if your child has a friend that will be in the same class, arrange a play date before school starts.
  • Discuss with your child about when school starts, what grade they are going into, their teacher’s name (if you know it). Just doing this one thing can help reduce their anxiety. Using a calendar to countdown the days is also helpful for visual learners.
  • If your child is used to sleeping in during the summer, start to prepare for the school morning schedule by waking them up a bit earlier each day.
  • Try to schedule a visit with your child to meet their teacher and see their classroom the week before the first day. Giving your child a visual of their room, locker, or desk can help ease anxieties they may have.
  • Get school supplies well in advance so that your child can get used to them. And your child may prefer their familiar backpack, lunch bag, certain colored folders, etc. A familiar item can bring comfort when there is so much newness happening in their world.
  • For older students, color code notebooks and materials (including making text book covers) for different classes. Blue equals English, red equals Math, etc. Color coding can help your child identify and keep their materials together more easily.

Preparing the School/Teacher/Therapists:

back to school

Your child spends the majority of their awake hours at school. Establishing a collaborative relationship with all those involved in his or her education will make for a smoother school year.

  • Ask to schedule a meeting with the teacher before the first day. This will give you a chance to discuss seating, potential distractions and your child’s strengths and needs. Take a copy of your child’s IEP to give the teacher. Review any specific items you want to make sure they are aware of.
  • If it’s a new school, contact them to ask for a tour. If permitted, take pictures of the school, playground, classroom, cafeteria, specials rooms and teacher to create a social story for your child.
  • Arrange to meet with the principal if your child is new to the school. Being proactive helps everyone to better understand your child’s needs. Also ask about the school’s experience with autism and how the staff works with children on the spectrum.
  • Create a one-page profile about your child, outlining their strengths, skills working on, possible sensory issues, dietary restrictions, and favorite reinforcers. Also include a few “fun facts” about your child. Make copies for your child’s teacher, LRC teacher, para pros and therapists. You can also provide one for the principal, assistant principal, office staff, librarian, physical education, art & music teachers. It is very helpful to everyone working with your child to have a “snapshot” of them.
  • Hopefully most school teams already do this, but if not, encourage communication among new and previous teachers. Ask them share information on known behavior problems and strategies that worked well. It can also be helpful to share teaching techniques that were beneficial to your child’s learning. If your child has therapists ask them to communicate any helpful information with the new teacher as well.
  • Collaborate with the teacher or a behavior specialist to create a reinforcement system. Use this system to reward your child for positive days, especially during the transition back.
  • Update your child’s medical information with the school, including any new medications your child is taking. Remember to get any required prescriptions for school therapies from your child’s pediatrician.
  • If your child has special dietary needs or has dietary issues, be sure to address (or readdress) these with the school to ensure they will be managed.

Preparing Yourself:

back to school planning

A calm mom and dad are better able to help their child have a smooth back to school transition.

  • Confirm who your emergency contacts are and make sure you have their current phone numbers. (Sometimes this is a little more complicated for families that have children with autism or other disabilities.)
  • Review your child’s IEP to ensure it is exactly how you want it to be. If the IEP needs updating (maybe due to growth in some areas over the summer), request a meeting with the IEP team to make changes.
  • Try to relax – if possible! Children can sense their parents’ anxiety. If you can keep your stress in check, it will help your child stay calm on the first day and through the school year.

We hope you found some helpful back to school tips to create a smooth transition for your child – and you – when that first day arrives!

And if your child struggles in a traditional school setting, needing more focused behavior supports, take a look at Our Programs supporting individuals with autism from ages 2 to 16. We offer both daytime and evening options.