3 Meaningful Ways Autistic Children Benefit from Visual Schedules
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3 Meaningful Ways Autistic Children Benefit from Visual Schedules

I’ve said it before and honestly, I think it’s worth repeating: we could all do with a little bit of routine and structure.  Autistic children thrive with routines and predictability. As a parent of a non-verbal autistic child, I have learned this first hand. Sometimes the hard way. But it became more of a matter of altering the environment to better work for my daughter. Whether it’s at home or school, my autistic child benefits from visual schedules. And what better way than to use free printables for autistic children to set those schedules up. 3 Meaningful Ways Autistic Children Benefit from Visual Schedules It may seem like common sense. At least for me. I’ve come to know that my daughter is more of a…

Back to School Transition Tips for Autistic Kids

Back to School Transition Tips for Autistic Kids

Sweet B was 3 when she started preschool and honestly? I will remember that day like it was yesterday. That day was quite possibly one of the most difficult for her and for me and if you’d like, you can read about our story here.. Prior to that, she had stayed at home with me while her team of therapists came in and out of the house. But, after meeting with the Early Intervention team, it was decided that going to a special needs preschool program would be best. Thanks to V, I was already somewhat familiar with the special education process at the early childhood level. But, because had already been in daycare, the transition to preschool was easy. Today I want to share…

How to Get SSI Benefits for Your Autistic Child: A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents

How to Get SSI Benefits for Your Autistic Child: A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents

If you’re raising an autistic child, you know that specialized therapies, adaptive equipment, and other necessary supports can be expensive. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can provide financial assistance to help cover these essential costs, but the application process can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about SSI eligibility, the application process, and what to do if your claim is denied. 1. What Is SSI and How Can It Help? SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is a federal program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provides monthly payments to children and adults with disabilities who meet income and resource limits. For autistic children, SSI benefits can help cover: ✔ Specialized therapies (speech, OT, ABA) ✔ Adaptive equipment ✔ Special diets…

The One Thing I Wish Someone had Told Me After My Daughter’s Diagnosis
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The One Thing I Wish Someone had Told Me After My Daughter’s Diagnosis

Following my daughter’s autism diagnosis in 2003, I was a mess. So much had changed, and yet hadn’t changed, after receiving the official statements from her developmental pediatrician. And as much as I could have been in denial, instead I went into some sort of action. Granted, I still didn’t deal with it as best as I could have. There were still things that I could have done better. Looking back, there were a few things that I wish someone would have told me after my daughter’s autism diagnosis. The words I needed to hear after my daughter’s autism diagnosis It’s so simple really, but would have meant so much in the grand scheme of things. Nothing has changed. And yet, it seemed that everything…

What to Do When You’re Having a Breakdown as an Autism Mom

What to Do When You’re Having a Breakdown as an Autism Mom

We’ve all had those moments. Those moments when our child is in the midst of a meltdown. Those moments when you’re surrounded by bills. Those moments when you know you need to get dinner on the table. Those moments when your mind is racing. Those moments when it just seems like you can’t do enough. We’ve all had those moments where we feel like we’re at our breaking point. We’ve all had those moments where we feel like we’re going to have a breakdown. I know because I’ve been there. I know because I was there. And here’s what to do when you’re having a breakdown as an autism mom. When that breakdown starts to happen… I can see it all too clearly.. the yelling…

Why Use Sensory Boxes or Sensory Bins for Special Needs?

Why Use Sensory Boxes or Sensory Bins for Special Needs?

Sensory bins, or sensory boxes, can be quite beneficial for children with special needs. But why is that? Whether you are using them at home or in school, here’s how to incorporate sensory bins for special education needs and purposes. And honestly? If a craft challenged, mess fearing mom like me can embrace the idea of sensory boxes and sensory bins? Anyone can. I hate the mess and honestly, I’m not a huge fan of creating or touching slime. I may have a few sensory issues myself that need to be addressed. Why Use Sensory Bins for Special Education Needs? Sweet B uses sensory bins quite a bit at school. They provide her with a unique opportunity to experience play without having to be fully…