Reach Your Child's Potential with Professional Insights
We are all about the “getting ready” for our children with sensory processing needs. That is, our focus is front-loaded. As therapists, while prepping our sessions, we have ready what each child needs in order to be at an optimal place for learning. As parents, we have learned what works for our child to be [...]
If you have a kid with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), you probably dread the unexpected. Our kids can suffer emotionally, educationally, and physically as they struggle to process new information. Worse, the unfamiliar can send their already too high anxiety through the roof. Gains worked so very hard for, can be easily lost. Those on [...]
Transitions can be tough for everyone, but they can be especially challenging for people with special needs. Whether the transition is from one activity to another or a break in normal routine, both can be hard. My Past Experience with Transitions As an individual with autism I know just how hard transitions can be. When [...]
As an individual with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), I like structure and predictability. I enjoy knowing what is going to happen, first, next, and last. Not only do I like knowing what is going to happen, I also tend to want to know exactly when they are going to happen. Sometimes my need for [...]
A therapeutic platypus?… Yes, you heard correctly. Paddy, a weighted platypus, provides therapeutic sensory input to those who use him. Giving loving comfort to children, this platypus is an instant hit. Produced by The Sensory Gallery, this delightful weighted creature is a must have therapy tool for teachers, parents, and therapists. An Anywhere Calming and [...]
A seven year-old who insists on wearing the same outfit everyday. A five year-old boy who frequently hits and kicks his parents during hair and teeth-brushing. A tween with autism who becomes aggressive during transitions at school. Should these actions be treated as sensory problems or as behavioral issues? Sensory or Behavioral? My answer to [...]
“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass; it’s about learning to dance in the rain.” – Author unknown Lori Ciccarelli reflects on her son going from child to adult and what this means in the special needs world. This is an emotional article from a mom who can now look in the rear [...]
Entering middle school can be overwhelming for any child, but add your child’s special challenges and this transition can be quite intimidating. If your child is entering middle school this fall, you probably already had an IEP team meeting discussing transitional support. Meanwhile, what can you do to help your child best succeed as he/she [...]
Summer has been full of fun, relaxation, and swimming. But now all this is about to change; summer 2012 is coming to an end. Back-to-school ads started back in July, a sign that the school year is just around the corner. Transitions can be hard for individuals with autism and other Isms. Just as they [...]
One of the greatest areas of concern in caring for my daughter, Jaimie, is transition. Since she’s been very tiny, her routine is sacred to her and even the slightest change can set her into an instant meltdown. Many of our kids rely on ‘the same’, because knowing what’s going to happen gives them some [...]
