Fostering authentic friendships for children with disabilities requires more than just shared space, but true acceptance and support. Dr. Elizabeth Biggs’ research shows that genuine connections flourish when children feel a sense of belonging.
Adjusting to a new Back-to-School schedule can be overwhelming. For families with special needs children, everyday transitions can feel daunting. A visual schedule can simplify life by creating a clear step-by-step plan. Imagine a child who can’t read yet but knows they need to eat breakfast, brush their teeth, and get dressed.
Lessons from Life on the Bridge As an autistic adult and registered behavior technician, Kaelynn Partlow shares her insightful perspective on autism. With honesty and heart, she navigates the complexities of life on the spectrum, highlighting the importance of accepting and celebrating autistic strengths, rather than solely focusing on challenges.
When autism diagnosis hits, parents often find themselves in uncharted territory. Irisa Leverette, warrior mom to Darius, felt hopeless and uncertain about her son’s future. In our podcast, Irisa shares her journey of navigating denial and questioning, ‘why our child?’ Start here: be patient with yourself, and don’t hesitate to seek support.
When summer camp searches return no results, it’s easy to feel defeated. For families like ours, finding inclusive camps for kids with disabilities is an ongoing challenge. Some summer camps may claim to be ‘inclusive,’ but upon further review, they’re often not prepared for children with higher support needs.
Calming the senses, one room at a time. For autistic children, a sensory-friendly home can be a safe haven, reducing overwhelm and promoting calm. In the living room, try swapping harsh overhead lighting for table lamps or strings of fairy lights, and adding soft throw blankets to encourage cozy snuggling.
Starting small can give your child a big boost in building confidence and independence. Try breaking down daily tasks, like laying the table or packing a snack, into manageable steps. You can also create a visual checklist with pictures or symbols to make it easier for them to understand what’s expected.
Coasting through anxiety, one bridge at a time. Imagine the Seven Mile Bridge in the Florida Keys, its turquoise waters and sunlit skies a calming balm for your frazzled nerves. Find a quiet moment, take a deep breath, and let the serenity wash over you.
Turn your home into a beach day road trip adventure, even without leaving the house. Get excited, just like you would on a real road trip.
When a child loses a sibling, their grief can be misunderstood. But with gentle guidance, they can find comfort. Try listening with your heart, even when you don’t have all the answers. Maintain comforting routines and offer steady reassurance, like Sarah Mayfield recommends in her book ‘This Sure Thing.
