Afleveringen
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In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene engages in a heartfelt conversation with Lynn and Jonathan Greenberg, a mother-son duo, about their personal journey with dyslexia. Jonathan, a college student born with dyslexia, shares the challenges he faced and how he discovered a deep love for writing, reading, and drawing with the support of his mother. Together, they turned obstacles into opportunities, creating the children's book "Robby the Dyslexic Taxi." The book celebrates determination, creativity, and the power of collaboration.
Guests:
Joining us today are Jonathan Greenberg, Author, and Illustrator, born with dyslexia, who found a creative outlet through art and storytelling, and Lynn Greenberg, Author, retired attorney, and devoted mother. Together, they collaborated on "Robby the Dyslexic Taxi And The Airport Adventure," addressing dyslexia and advocating for neurodiversity. Their story highlights resilience and creativity in navigating learning challenges.Bullet Point Recap:
⢠Personal journey with dyslexia, challenges faced, and the creation of "Robby the Dyslexic Taxi."
⢠Jonathan's positive perspective on dyslexia as a superpower.
⢠The importance of parental support and trusting instincts.
⢠Description of the book's storyline and characters.
⢠The role of the Creative Cab Company in fostering a supportive community.
⢠Plans for a series exploring different learning differences.Creative Cab Company:
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In this taboo-busting episode, Brian Keene welcomes Cindi Seifert, a devoted mother and the founder of Preventa Wear to share her journey raising her daughter Kyla, a 25-year-old with autism and epilepsy. The taboo topic of diaper digging, a behavior many parents face in silence, takes center stage as Cindi opens up about the challenges she encountered and the innovative solution she crafted to empower families worldwide.
Guest:
Cindi Seifert, a compassionate mother and the visionary founder of Preventa Wear, LLC, unfolds her remarkable journey as a caregiver and entrepreneur. Her commitment to addressing the challenges of incontinence and providing specialized clothing solutions has transformed Preventa Wear into a global phenomenon.
Bullet Point Recap:
Origins of Preventa Wear: Cindi shares the genesis of Preventa Wear, born out of the daily struggles with Kyla's diaper digging behavior and the need for a supportive solution.
The Preventa Wear Collection: A diverse range of sensory-friendly, fashionable, and functional outfits, including adult-sized onesies, wheelchair pads, and stylish apparel for individuals with various neurological disorders.
Breaking the Silence: Cindi's openness about the taboo topic of diaper digging aims to shatter societal silence and connect with families facing similar challenges.
Global Impact: The Prevent Aware movement extends beyond autism, reaching families dealing with Alzheimer's, Down syndrome, and other neurological disorders worldwide.
Empowering Families: Cindi's mission goes beyond providing clothing; it's about offering support, understanding, and a sense of community to families navigating the often isolating journey of caregiving.
The Preventa Wear Website: Cindi directs listeners to the Preventa Wear website, where families can explore the range of products, find resources, and connect with a community that understands their unique experiences
Prevent Aware Resources:
https://preventawear.com/
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Synopsis: In this episode, Brian Keene welcomes Manisha Snoyer, a teacher, tech entrepreneur, and host of the "Teach Your Kids" podcast. They discuss alternatives to the traditional education system, focusing on homeschooling as a customizable and flexible solution for families, especially those with special needs.
Guest: Manisha Snoyer is a renowned educator, speaker, and innovator in the field of personalized learning and childhood education. With over a decade of experience, she has worked passionately to bridge the gap between traditional education systems and individualized learning methodologies. Manisha's expertise extends to the intersection of technology and education, as she leverages digital tools to enhance learning experiences.
Bullet Point Recap:
Manisha Snoyer's 20 years of teaching experience and recognition of issues in the education system.
Cottage Class as a tech platform supporting teachers in starting micro-schools and aiding homeschooling families.
Diverse and modern landscape of homeschooling, addressing challenges faced by families with special needs.
Examples of customized curriculum recommendations based on a child's preferences and needs.
Cottage Class as a marketplace connecting families with tutors and providing training in child-centered communication.
Overview of Arizona's innovative Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) and their impact on homeschooling.
Steps for families interested in homeschooling, including visiting the "Teach Your Kids" website.
Emphasis on affordability and support for all families interested in joining the homeschooling community.
Encouragement for families to explore homeschooling and seek help from available communities and specialists.
Resources:
Teach Your Kids Homeschooling Community Resources:
https://teachyourkids.substack.com/
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Synopsis:
In this episode of the Autism Family Resource podcast, host Brian Keene interviews Justin Behnke, father of a nonspeaking child on the autism spectrum, who created the innovative safety product ScanMeHome.com. Justin shares his personal journey, the inspiration behind his product, and practical tips for enhancing child safety in the community.
Guest:
Meet Justin Behnke, father of a nonspeaking child on the autism spectrum and founder, director, and CEO of ScanMeHome.com, a QR code solution for child safety.
Main Topics Discussed:
ScanMeHome.com: A Lifeline for Parents: ScanMeHome.com offers an extra layer of security and peace of mind. Iron-on QR code tags are discreet, washable, and highly effective. Designed for children with disabilities, like nonverbal kids, but applicable to many
other diagnoses, like dementia. Exclusive Listener Discount: Justin offers a 50% lifetime discount with the code "VIPMEMBER." His mission is to make child safety accessible to all families. Community Safety and Awareness: Justin emphasizes the importance of community involvement and education. Making people aware of your childâs safety technology, be it QR code or Apple Air Tag, can create a safer environment for everyone.Recap:
Justin, a father of a nonspeaking child on the autism spectrum, discusses ScanMeHome.com, a safety product for children. He shares his personal journey and the inspiration behind creating the product. ScanMeHome.com offers an added layer of security for children with disabilities. QR codes are highly effective in child safety and include vital information. Practical tips for parents include staying close to children in public and parking near entrances. Promote awareness and education in the community for child safety. A discount code "VIPMEMBER" offers a 50% discount on ScanMeHome.com memberships for listeners.Resources:
https://scanmehome.com/
https://www.facebook.com/scanmehomenow
VIPMEMBER is your discount code. This gives people half off for life, including their sign-up and monthly.Subscribe Now & Leave a Review
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Communication Devises Part 3: AAC Device Best Practices
Synopsis:
On todayâs episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene continues his discussion with Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover, Phenix area speech-language pathologists. Lydia and Stacey delve into the significance of communication, the joy of language development, and the transformative power of AAC in the lives of individuals with communication difficulties. This episode, part three of the three-part series, focuses on AAC devices.
Guests:
Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover are speech-language pathologists based in the Phenix area. They specialize in working with individuals who use AAC in various settings, such as schools and homes. They have experience providing evaluations and training for augmentative communication devices and have worked extensively with non-speaking individuals and those with special needs. They are passionate about supporting communication development and empowering individuals to express themselves effectively.
Main Topics Discussed:
Introduction to AAC and Its Impact Defining AAC and its role in communication Transforming lives through effective communication Building Language through Play and Interaction Understanding the joy of language development The importance of social interactions in language acquisition Creating a communication-rich environment Implementing AAC in Daily Routines Making AAC a seamless part of routines Strategies for incorporating AAC devices into daily activities Balancing fun and learning through modeling The Role of Modeling in AAC Exploring the concept of modeling How modeling enhances receptive language skills Letting the child lead and nurturing expressive language growth Creating Meaningful Connections with AAC Recognizing the importance of social connection Empowering families to navigate AAC challenges Personal stories that demonstrate the impact of AACBullet Point Recap:
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) empowers individuals with communication challenges. Language development is a joyful process influenced by social interactions. Incorporating AAC into routines enhances communication success. Modeling is a powerful strategy for nurturing receptive and expressive language. AAC strengthens meaningful connections and improves overall quality of life.For AAC resources, FAQ, and flowcharts:
https://www.pureheartstherapy.com/resources/speechandcommunication
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Communication Devises Part 2: Obtaining an AAC Device
Synopsis: On todayâs episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene continues his discussion with Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover, Phenix area speech-language pathologists, about the process of obtaining Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices in Arizona. This episode, part two of the three-part series, focuses on AAC devices.
Guests:
Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover are speech-language pathologists based in the Phenix area. They specialize in working with individuals who use AAC in various settings, such as schools and homes. They have experience providing evaluations and training for augmentative communication devices and have worked extensively with non-speaking individuals and those with special needs. They are passionate about supporting communication development and empowering individuals to express themselves effectively.
Main Topics Discussed:
How to initiate the process of obtaining an AAC device for a child in Arizona. The importance of working with a contracted AAC agency for specialized services. The role of a multidisciplinary team in the evaluation process, including speech therapists and occupational/physical therapists. Conducting a thorough evaluation to find the right AAC device that suits the child's needs and abilities. The significance of considering the family's input and the child's physical abilities during the evaluation. The possibility of using loaner devices during the evaluation phase.Recap:
In Arizona, families should initiate the process of obtaining an AAC device for their child to support their communication needs, as early intervention is crucial. To get an AAC device, families can work with their therapists or directly contact an AAC provider agency for assistance. The evaluation process involves a multidisciplinary team, including speech therapists and occupational/physical therapists, to find the best match for the child's communication requirements. The evaluation considers various factors, including the child's physical abilities, communication needs, and family input. Loaner devices may be available to use during the evaluation period. Part three of the series will focus on implementing the AAC device in daily life and discussing the pros and cons of different devices and features.For AAC resources, FAQ, and flowcharts:
https://www.pureheartstherapy.com/resources/speechandcommunication
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In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene sits down with Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover, speech-language pathologists from the Phenix area, to delve into the world of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). They discuss the importance of communication, language acquisition, and the various communication options, such as AAC devices. This is the first part of a three-part series to provide valuable insights and guidance for parents of non-speaking or special needs children.
Guests:
Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover are speech-language pathologists based in the Phenix area. They specialize in working with individuals who use AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) in various settings, such as schools and homes. They have experience providing evaluations and training for augmentative communication devices and have worked extensively with non-speaking individuals and those with special needs. They are passionate about supporting communication development and empowering individuals to express themselves effectively.
Main Topics Discussed:
Defining communication and debunking the misconception that it is solely verbal. Exploring language acquisition and how it develops through babbling and word formation. Emphasizing the role of context and interaction in language learning. Introducing AAC as a tool for augmenting and supplementing communication. Highlighting the importance of engagement, feedback, and positive social interaction in language development. Considering sign language as a visual form of communication and its potential benefits. Addressing the question of when it's time for a child to get an AAC device. Stressing the importance of self-advocacy and providing individuals with the means to express themselves.Key Takeaways:
Communication encompasses various modalities beyond verbal speech, including body language and literacy. Language acquisition begins with babbling and gradually shapes into meaningful words through positive reinforcement and social interaction. AAC serves as a tool to support and augment existing modes of communication. Engagement, context, and interaction are crucial in language learning and should be prioritized in the parent-child relationship. Sign language can be considered a form of communication, but the ability to hear oneself say words is important, which AAC devices can facilitate. The decision to introduce AAC should be based on individual needs and communication challenges. AAC devices empower individuals to self-advocate and express their needs effectively.For AAC resources, FAQ, and flowcharts:
https://www.pureheartstherapy.com/resources/speechandcommunication
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Guest
Karen Thomas is a mom and the author of "Naturally Healing Autism: The Complete Step-by-Step Resource Handbook for Parents.â She is passionate about spreading the possibility of drug-free recovery and is set to help parents whose children are on the autism spectrum get natural recovery. This passion was born out of her personal experience. She went through a long research process to get help for her son, who now lives without autistic symptoms.
Topics Discussed
Karen shares how her experience as a Cranial Sacral Therapist helped her to ignore the traditional treatment advice for Autism she got and sought to find a lasting treatment for her son.
When my son was diagnosed with Autism, now 17 years ago, I was told to drug him and try behavioral therapies but I didn't want to do that because I wanted to find out what the causes were, not just mask symptoms, especially with dangerous drugs. My background is that I have been a Cranial Sacral Therapist for over 20 years, which means I work on the bones of the head to balance the brain, and I have extensive courses and research on the brain. So I knew when my son was diagnosed that the brain can and does heal, but I didn't know that much about autism, so I began, like most parents on the journey, seeking various therapists and practitioners and people.
Some challenging experiences
He had extreme oppositional defiance, extreme OCD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trouble sleeping, would wake up screaming from stomach ache at 3 am, and constant headaches. I mean, everything was just pointing to these issues of health and behaviors. I knew that the behaviors had a lot to do with health, so I started to work with them, and today you wouldn't even imagine he could ever act in that aggressive way that he used to or have the irritability that he used to because today, he is so calm and easy going and kind and relaxed.
Karen shares how she overcame gut inflammatory problems by curating a proper diet plan for her son.
The gut controls the brain and controls the immune system. So if your child is always sick, it leads to a gut issue, which is why we need to start from the gut. We also need to start with detoxification support and pathway because even the dietary changes alone are going to start killing off the bad bacteria, and there is a work term that's called âdie ofâ When these bad bacteria die off, they start to release more toxins, so you can see an increase in worsened behaviors of your child and this is happening. You have to support the detoxification pathway better with binders and mutational support.
The starting point of a detoxification process and Keren's experience with her son.
My food guide is the best resource to start looking at, and it explains why you want to remove these specific foods and the purpose behind them. When we have more education, we tend to take more responsibility, and knowledge helps us know why we want to continue pursuing it because it can be challenging⌠So for my son, I noticed that he started sleeping better and that was good because there were so many ups and downs that I didn't know then, that I do now, that I can lead parents now correctly through.
Karen talks about diet change and creating substitutes for autistic children.
I think if you switch to organic foods, that will help a lot even if in the beginning, you are getting an organic chicken nugget and it still has the gluten covering on it, things like that but at least, you are not getting the antibiotics and hormones and additional pesticides because our kids are already so toxic⌠So just start making some substitutions, it will be a process of trial and error to find the things that your child will eat and like.
Recap
â It is okay to refuse to accept the status quo when your child's health is concerned, no matter how long it will take, keep doing your research, and you will eventually get a break.
â Every child's level of recovery is different and the definition is to regain health.
â There are 4 stages of detoxification: Dietary changes, Heavy metal detox, clearing co-infections, and finding supplements. These stages have to be followed in the correct order for effective results.
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Connect with Karen
NaturallyRecoveringAutism.com
NaturallyRecoveringAutism.com/7foods
Facebook.com/NaturallyRecoveringAutism
Instagram.com/recoveringautism (@recoveringautism)
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Guests
Debbie Kimberg is the definition of the word 'BRAVE.' She is a writer and doubles as an advocate. She is a mom of autistic children and has gathered a wide range of experience in caring for and trying to find solutions for her kids.
Sammy Kimberg is her son and was diagnosed with being on the autism spectrum and having Bartonella disease after a series of tests and disappointing results that would have left other parents discouraged from finding solutions.
In this episode, both mother and son share their story of managing this medical condition.
Discussion:
Debbie's story about learning about her and her children's condition.
"Sammy was not severely autistic as a young toddler, but as he continued to progress through school, he had several behaviors that qualified him to be autistic. when he was in middle School we stumbled on a Doctor who tested him for something called Bartonella, which is an infection just like Lyme. Sammy tested positive. I and my other children got tested, and we were all positive."
Learning about Lyme's disease
"I was born and raised in St. Louis, I had never met anyone with Lyme disease before. You think Okay, well, we are going to get some antibiotics, everything is going to be so much better. He took his first antibiotic, which was augmentin, and it damaged his pretty sweet, mild kind of personality. He started having fights and became verbally more aggressive. Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria called perrella. There are 300 strains as they call it, but it's variants like COVID.
Everybody talks about Lyme but the star in our story and what we are seeing a lot in the autistic community is the infection called Bartonella."
Sammy's experience dealing with Bartonella
"I had a lot of issues in school. I did bad consistently getting D's and C's and I was in special education class. Sometimes, my teachers help me in the hallway and stuff. Some of the medications helped me a lot in school, but some of them made me a lot worse."
How Sammy went from being a picky eater to having a voracious appetite
"I think one of the big things to point out is that the picky eating went away. He was more food aversion. It's like you are pregnant and you look at stuff and he's like yeah that doesn't look good more than the textures themselves. 8 weeks into treatment, and all of a sudden he would be doing everything, and not only was he eating everything, he was eating a ton."
Debbie's advice on how to navigate Bartonella and Lyme's disease
"If the mom or dad has issues with anxiety, depression, OCD , panic mood swings, bad temper or autoimmune disease, they should consider getting their kids screened because he could change their lives and trajectory. The sooner you do it the better but if you want to get screened there's a problem because the CDC has not acknowledged that these kinds of infections can cause the symptoms in children. One big reason that CDC had that opinion, is because the lab test doesn't work and if it doesn't work the research isn't going to work either. The way to find doctors who will be able to treat these diseases is through your Facebook line groups. Also, people can DM me. If you need help, I will help."
Sammy shares a bit of his plans and his support systems.
"I am planning to go to the University of Texas and double major in music and computer science. My biggest support is definitely my mum and doctor. My support at school were some teachers, they were always nice."
Recap
¡ It's okay to say no when something doesn't feel right. You know your child best, so continue to advocate for your family, and look elsewhere for answers if your questions concerning your family's health aren't being answered.
¡ Consider getting your child screened if as a parent, you have a history of mental-related issues no matter how mild it was (is).
¡ Sammy's treatments didn't cure his autism, but it cured the symptoms related to bartonella and Lyme disease.
If you have a child or family with this condition and you are finding it difficult to access a good doctor, visit www.projectline.org to get a doctor's directory.
Connect with Debbie
Debbie's website: www.debbiekimberg.com
Instagram and Tiktok: @hijacked brains
If you learned a thing or two about this episode, do well to share, follow for more, like, comment, and subscribe.
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Guest:
Brittyn Coleman is a Registered Dietitian, Autism Nutrition Expert, and the Creator of the Autism Nutrition Library. She works with parents and children with autism and gives solutions to picky eaters by looking deep to find the cause of their symptoms.
Growing up with a brother on the autism spectrum, Brittyn has firsthand experience of what picky eating looks like. Seeing how difficult it was to deal with her brother's eating habits, she decided to dedicate her practice as a dietitian to picky eaters who are on the autism spectrum to help them expand their diet, live at their optimum ability, and by extension, perform brilliantly in school.
Overview:
The beginner's diet for picky eaters.
It would be unwise to list what an ideal diet plan should look like because of individual preferences. Some children select their food because they have Sensory Processing Disorder, others for a different reason. The first step would be identifying the various categories their current meal plan falls into and formulating new meals with similar properties.
Brittyn's thoughts on the expansion of food preference as children get older.
An explanation for the possibility of this happening would be, Exposure. Naturally, an older child will have more exposure to various kinds of meals than a younger child, but this can only happen with some effort or a major push from the parents or an expert. Merely showing them pictures of food and allowing them to touch and smell them can build their interest.
How do picky eaters get the right amount of nutrients in their diet?
It is important to note that kids on the autism spectrum eat a lot of processed food because the taste is familiar, so they know what to expect. These foods, as expected, have a limited number of nutrients, but a feeding therapist can help them expand their diet. While supplements are helpful, there shouldn't be a full dependence on them. So if you use supplements, get professional help in expanding your diet.
How to deal with constipation.
A few veggies and fruits with a good amount of fiber can help lucky eaters have easy bowel movements. A few of them are Pears and Chia seeds. Beans and legumes can help also. Supplements like Magnesium are also advised.
How do you control weight gain and loss?
To help control the children's weight, a fiber-rich, nutrient-dense diet is the main focus. The problem becomes getting them to eat these foods. An autism-based dietitian or nutritionist can help with this. The primary aim is to expand their diet, help them eat healthier, and integrate healthy living into their lifestyle.
How do you help children when they get burned out on their favorite food?
It can be stressful for the parent to get used to a child's favorite food and suddenly have to start sourcing for new ideas when they get bored, only to go back to the previous meal when they have settled into a new meal plan. To navigate this, a few changes can be made to that particular food to offer variety so the child doesn't get bored.
Is nutrition deficiency a contributor to picky eating?
Absolutely yes, it is.
When certain important nutrients are missing from your food, you can experience a severe change of preference for food. Introducing supplements to fill in the gap and break the circle is advised. For kids on the spectrum, it can be really hard. The best approach to help picky eaters is to collaborate with an autism nutrition expert.
Recap:
Nutrition is hard. It is stressful for many families, but I know that small changes make a difference, and these little small changes build up over time.
Be patient and use the resources around you. Reach out to an expert.
Make an effort to modify foods so your child is not burned out.
Resources:
Website: autismdietitian.com
Instagram: instagram.com/autismdietitian
Podcast: autismdietitian.com/podcast
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Guest:
Rach Wilson is a relationship coach for couples of neurodiverse children.
Background/Importance
Rach Wilson is not only a coach for couples with neurodiverse children, but she herself has two neurodiverse children. She has a wide range of expertise and experience to help a variety of couples through the challenges they face raising neurodiverse children. Rach is devoted to helping couples work through hard times, rekindle whatâs been lost, and thrive in their relationships to strengthen their bond and gain the skills to get through any conflicts that come their way.
Statistics
Raising a neurodiverse child is one the hardest jobs in the world, and it plays a significant role in a couple's relationships. At times it can cause a large amount of stress. Stress is the highest factor leading to divorce.
What is the main struggle you see among your clients?
Some of the consequences that arise from stress are sleep deprivation and unintentionally forgetting to prioritize the relationship. This leads to distance, less intimacy, conflict, and ultimately destruction because the children come first. When walking into conflicts people often become defensive and begin to project while forgetting to take accountability for their role in the problem. People will play the blame game instead of trying to understand their partner. When communication becomes defensive reactions, problems will escalate drawing them closer to destruction. Oftentimes defensive behavior is stemmed from past trauma, whether it be from childhood trauma or from a past relationship. Every person comes into a relationship with baggage that causes unconscious behaviors to arise during conflicts.
What are the first steps in resolving issues and stress in relationships?
When couples fall into a state of extreme stress they are unable to take on any new information or rationally deal with anything other than what they must do. The first step is to get out of âDeath Valleyâ. Once you are past that state of extreme stress, then itâs a good time to reflect on whatâs been going on and work through problems. The best way to work through issues is to learn and implement better teamwork and communication skills. In order to build a stronger relationship with your partner you need to know yourself as well as your partner. Race mentions the Peace Process. During the peace process, you build skills to better learn about the triggers and baggage you both bring to the table and how to work through upsets as your best self. When you gain emotional awareness you can respond to each other in more real and honest ways.
How does someone get out of âDeath Valleyâ when theyâre stuck?
To get out of âDeath Valleyâ the first thing to do is identify the problems going on with your child(ren) that are causing stress and meltdowns, then find a solution. Take the time to act on the small things like checking in with how your partner is doing. Give each other permission to openly vent and talk about issues going on to release built-up tension. Rach uses the traffic light system as an example. The traffic light system is made of three colors: green, orange, and red. There are three levels to orange. Green means everything is good, and red means youâre at low capacity and need space to yourself handle burnout and the inability to communicate properly. The first stage of orange is when you're moving out of green, the second stage is where you try to identify what you need to help get better, and the last stage is redâs around the corner. Sometimes itâs a quick move from orange to red, and thereâs little time to counter the back to green.
Talk Therapy vs Coaching
Therapy is a good outlet to talk through things going on, but it doesnât teach you the skills to shift and change situations or learn skills to heal better emotionally. Rach has studied a lot of different areas of coaching that help give couples a âpower tool setâ for healing and transformation. Talking about issues can be an important first step in progress toward growth. Then when you learn your baggage and trigger you to understand each better you can learn the skills it takes to resolve problems as they arise. Over time upsets become builders to make couples stronger to thrive down the road.
What are some key takeaways for the listeners?
Firstly, we all come into relationships with baggage and past trauma. Secondly, during heated moments we often project on one another because we are in defense mode like when our neurodiverse child(ren) is having a meltdown. Lastly, reach out to any professionals you may need to learn and work on the skills you need to build better teamwork and communication.
How do they get a hold of you?
Website - Link down below
Action Plan: (some applicable things parents can implement at home)
The traffic light system was a good example of how to identify better whatâs going on with yourself and your partner.
Recap:
Itâs impossible not to bring âbaggageâ to a relationship.
Most of our ideas of how to be in a relationship come from what we have seen in prior relationships or caregivers
Being in a healthy relationship requires skill building, and it can help to reach out to a professional like a relationship coach to understand how you show up and build communication skills to be more successful in your relationship.
Resources:
Website (Relationship Survival Guide is on the website)
https://divinerelating.com/
Facebook (Private message Rach telling her you heard her on the podcast if sending a friend request)
https://facebook.com/rachwilson
Instagram
http://instagram.com/divinerelating
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Guest:
Crestina Yaiva is a stay-at-home mom of twins aged 9. She has a business of her own, making handmade jewelry using textiles. Her son Franco is on the autism spectrum as well as non-speaking, while Vincent is neurotypical.
Overview:
Crestina had noticed that her son Vincent is always so kind and loving to others, but when it came to his brother, he seemed to be a bit distant. Franco has always had a tendency to be somewhat isolated and play by himself. The boys would have decent interactions, but they seemed brief, and Vincent seemed to be a little more distant from his brother. Eventually, Crestina came across an article that really helped her bring her boys closer together. The article was centered around ânot blaming the baby.â This entails taking accounting for your time or how you are feeling and making an effort not to blame the sibling with more needs for being tired or not having time. Crestina began to rephrase the way she communicated with Vincent, and she began to notice that Vincent began to bond more with his brother and have less resentment towards him. Crestina still continues to be intentional about how she communicates about her capacity and needs and takes a neutral stance instead of âblaming the babyâ.
Recap:
âDonât blame the babyâ
Avoid using one child as an excuse not to have attention or energy for the other child.
Look for support groups like SARRC and Sibships for siblings of neurodiverse children.
Resources:
Sibshops
SARRC https://autismcenter.org/sibling-support
Autism United: https://azaunited.org/services/sibshops
Crestina's Business Page
Website https://cocochenzo.com/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coco_chenzo/
Episode 14: How to manage the emotions of the sibling of an autistic child
https://www.pureheartstherapy.com/autismfamilyresource/how-to-manage-the-emotions-of-the-siblings-of-an-autistic-child
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Facebook Group: Autism Family Resource
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Guest:
Rebecca âBeccaâ Stoddard is a pediatric occupational therapist and owner of Breakthrough Therapy based in Phoenix, AZ. Becca is enthusiastic about working with children and their families to help them achieve their gross motor milestones. Becca has completed 2 courses on Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI). She plans to complete a 3rd course at the beginning of the year. With experience in visor therapy settings, Becca uses both intensive DMI therapy and ongoing weekly DMI therapy at her practice. She also offers a free gross motor skills screening that can be done virtually, in person, and at home.
Interview:
What is Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI)?
DMI is a specialized, hands-on technique focusing on head control, trunk control, and achieving gross motor milestones. Some of those milestones are rolling, sitting, balancing, crawling, standing, and walking. DMI exercises look different from the traditional therapy approach. Some exercises use gravity and a lot of sensory input to get automatic responses from the child to help them reach milestones. There is also a unique box set that is used as the child gets older and progresses. One of the main parts of DMI is an emphasis on neuroplasticity. Thatâs a fancy term for creating new connections in the brain. The key factor in achieving this is repetition to create those new pathways.
How do I know if my child would be a good fit for DMI therapy?
When a child exhibits gross motor delays, it can be things like the inability to hold their head up, not being able to roll, and the inability to maintain balance while sitting up. In a study, gross motor delays can occur in up to 68% of children with autism. Children with autism are more at risk of delayed gross motor skills.
What are some red flag diagnoses that might be indicated for gross motor delay?
There is a wide range of diagnoses that can include gross motor delay. Some of the main ones are cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injury, gross motor delays, and development delays. Every child is different and can be a possible candidate that can benefit from DMI therapy.
What is an example of what DMI therapy may look like for a child?
One example could be putting a child in an inverted upside-down position to work on core strength. The brain will automatically want to be upright when in an inverted position. Putting a baby in that position will force the body to create the desired response to be upright. Another example would be an exercise focusing on walking and stepping up on a surface. The thigh would be supported as the child tries to step up onto a box. DMI support goes from proximal to distal. As the therapy progresses, the support will go from the hips to the thigh to the ankles.
What can a parent do at home to help their child strengthen and build gross motor skills?
Parents can take their children to the playground and practice going up steps without holding onto the railing. With a baby sitting on the lap, lean him/her backward, and give the baby a chance to try and sit up to build belly muscles that work out core strength. When laying down, aid the baby with holding him/herself up with his/her arms and exercises on the knees. A website Becca refers her clients to is pathways.org as a reference to what to expect maybe their child to be doing at certain ages.
Recap:
- Work on core strength
- Encourage play in various positions
- Physical play with toddlers and slightly older children
Resources:
www.DMItherapy.com
Pathways.org | Tools to maximize child development
www.breakthrough-therapy.com
Instagram: @breakthrough_therapy_dmi
Article Reference
Research reference: Hedgecock, J. B., Dannemiller, L. A., Shui, A. M., Rapport, M. J., & Katz, T. (2018). Associations of Gross Motor Delay, Behavior, and Quality of Life in Young Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Physical therapy, 98(4), 251â259. https://doi.org/10.1093/ptj/pzy006
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Guest:
Jodi Thomas is a language pathologist and owner of Growing Voices Speech and Language Therapy based in East Valley Phoenix, AZ. Jodi Thomas has training in autism and gestalt language processing and opened her private practice to give children the 1 on 1 attention they deserve.
Interview:
There are two ways children develop language: analytical and gestalt. Children with autism often develop language using gestalt, and that requires using a different framework for evaluations and treatment to adequately meet their needs. Gestalt means whole. One key factor that is focused on with gestalt is echolalia. Echolalia is the repetition of another personâs spoken word.
Different Types of Echolalia
There are three types of echolalia. The first type is immediate echolalia. With immediate echolalia the child will simply follow another personâs speech. The second type is delayed echolalia. This type of echolalia tends to happen at a later time and can be produced with no communicative intent. This manner in a way a child communicates is called scripting. This means that the child is repeating words or phrases theyâre heard from a parent or tv show. The last type is mitigated echolalia. This is where the child will make a change in wording or intonation made by the person that is speaking to him or her. These different types of echolalia are important to appropriately use gestalt language processing to treat a child.
Different Stages of Gestalt Language Processing
Children who develop a gestalt way of language development learn communication phrases in chunks. In stage 1, a child will start by simply mimicking phrases they hear. During this stage, they will repetitively use the phrases they have acquired and will even attempt to copy the tone of voice the original speaker has. In stage 2, a child will start to break down the chunks of phrases theyâve stored. A child will begin pairing those phrases together and even start to pair them with new words. Oftentimes they will also start to mix and match different echolalia with their phrases. When a child reaches stage 3, they will use two-word combinations with singular words. This can appear like a backslide in their language because the utterances of phrases can become shorter. During stages 4, 5, and 6, a child can self-generate sentences, learn grammar, and begin to answer questions. During all the stages, itâs important to validate your childâs communication and help them model new phrases to build their gestalt up. During all stages, try not to ask too many questions as it may overwhelm and frustrate your child.
Ways to Model New Gestalt Phrases
A child first needs to learn new phrases that can be broken down when he/she reaches stage 2. Some common mitigated phrases that can help a child do this begin with the words letâs, itâs, and Iâm. Judy Thomas has noticed that many speech therapists try to use phrases that begin with âI want,â and this phrase can cause a child to get stuck in their development. The goal is for a child to create spontaneous utterances and not just memorize phrases. The best time to help a child model new phrases is during natural child child-led play.
Recap:
Donât ignore your childâs echolalia. This is an important part of how your child communicates by learning the meaning behind your childâs use of phrases will help move development along. Model back-and-forth phrases through natural play to make learning fun for your child. Remember not to ask too many questions that may frustrate your child and cause him/her to shut down. Walk through the steps of the gestalt learning process appropriately with the help of a speech therapist.Resources:
https://www.growingvoicestherapy.com
https://www.facebook.com/growingvoicestherapy
https://www.instagram.com/growingvoices.speech/
https://www.meaningfulspeechregistry.com
https://www.meaningfulspeech.com/blog/twotypesoflanguagedevelopment
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Facebook: Pure Hearts Therapy
Facebook Group: Autism Family Resource
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Guest:
Lenora Edwards is a Speech Language Pathologist for BetterSpeech.com. Along with over 150 other licensed therapists with an average of 10 years of experience, BetterSpeech.com is a nationwide online platform. They offer a free consultation on how they might help you or your loved one with appointments that include evenings and weekends. With varying prices to suit your needs, they even offer itemized bills to submit for reimbursement for those with qualifying insurance.
Interview:
In todayâs episode, weâre going to learn some of the red flags that your child might be exhibiting when it comes to speech and communication delays, and when to consult a speech therapist.
What are some red flags to look out for, and when is it appropriate to get a speech evaluation?
During the early developmental stages children first experience receptive language, such as when you tell your child youâre going to pick him/her up. During this time children are learning the tones in our voice, and begin to learn what things mean. Children begin to understand language before they gain the ability to express it. Some things to look out for are how your child responds to the information you are giving. When you call your childâs name does he/she respond? Does he/she look at your face? Does your child follow the directions you are giving? Does the response youâre getting show that your child understands what you are saying?
If you have any cause for concern in delays of speech and communication it is in your best interest to consult a speech therapist.
Would you say that if there is a lack of receptive communication that would be a good time to get a consultation?
Absolutely!! Some red flags to notice are lack of eye contact, not working to engage attention, or not following simple directions like come here. When you model what youâre asking your child can he/she model after you? Remember to keep talking to your child, and give your child the opportunity to communicate with you. Take your time, be patient, repeat what you want your child to do, and allow time for your child to process what youâre asking.
What are some of the signs of concern when it comes to expressive language?
For children in the younger stages babbling is a form of communication, as they grow older children then string together a series of consonants and vowels. If your child is only speaking in vowels or using a repetitive word that may be a red flag and need for a consultation. When you speak to your child make sure he/she can see your face to model after you, but if your child isnât making eye contact or engaging with you when you are speaking that could be a sign of concern.
What are some strategies parents can do at home?
Offer opportunities for your child to communicate with you Playing developmental gamesRecap:
When it comes to speech and communication development children learn to express themselves by learning from us. Keep talking to your child, and make sure what you're saying is digestible and not too much all at once. When in doubt, reach outBetterSpeech Resources:
Website: https://www.betterspeech.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourbetterspeech/
TikTok: N/A
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterspeech/
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-speech/mycompany/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BetterSpeechVideo
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Facebook: Pure Hearts Therapy
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Guest:
Janis Leinfuss, Amanda Newchok, and Erin OâHara are the creators/authors of the Ready to Learn and Play framework. All are practicing pediatric occupational therapists each with over 20 years of experience.
Interview:
Ready to Learn and Play (RtLP) is teaching the âwhyâ behind sensory regulation. TheRtLP framework solidifies sensory regulation-learned concepts through the meaningful understanding of WHY child-specific sensory-based interventions are beneficial, and HOW to choose effective sensory strategies based on exhibited sensory clues.
Why was the program created and how was it developed?
While doing group treatment sessions with students who had been receiving sensory based interventions for years, there was a realization that the students had no ownership of their treatment or have the ability to help create effective therapy plans. It took years of planning, creating, and gathering evidence to support the RtLP framework. As part of Janisâ doctoral research, a pilot study was conducted. A second follow up study was conducted with a larger sample size, as well as a third study that was done completely virtual due to the pandemic. This allowed the framework to be proven that it
can be conducted in person as well as virtual to suit individuals needs. While conducting the three studies there was a large improvement in occupational performance. A scope was done for pre and post testing analysis to show occupational performance improvements in day to day activities involving components that were motor based, social and emotional.What are the 4 phases of the framework?
Phase I is Sensory Experience:
For the first phase students are exposed to various sensory strategies and techniques that teach them the multiple ways we can get sensory input. The students get to learn about the different sensory systems and how it affects them. The students categorize different sensory activities by pairing flash cards and visual supports. This is a neuro-educational step that involves an organizational memory strategy that improves memory recall.
Phase II is Sensory Choices:
In this phase the students learn about the combination of sensory strategies that can be used to best suit processing needs. The main focus of this phase is to teach the student
about sensory regulation, such as when you might need to stimulate or repress different sensory systems. Some sensory behaviors are referred to as scattered actions, so in this phase the students are taught that these behaviors are clues to identifying sensory needs. The students are coached on how to connect the scattered action and the sensory category. This phase is all about empowering ownership of self regulating by
allowing the students to customize and create sensory strategies that will work best for them as an individual.
A unique aspect of this framework is that you get to reshape the negative context of sensory dysfunction and behaviors, and turn it into a positive tool that helps individuals become better informed when making decisions about their sensory needs. Students get to learn more about themselves to better understand and assign the reasons behind their sensory behaviors. This turns a complex concept into a simple understanding.
Phase III is Generalization:
This is the phase where students begin to practice the skills theyâve learned in various environments, and with various people. Throughout this phase students gain a better
understanding that not at all strategies, techniques and supports can be used for all contexts. The practice of generalizing the knowledge theyâve learned about regulation
supports from the previous phases helps the students to further maintain and recall sensory regulatory concepts long term.The main focus of phase III is to reflect on what
theyâve learned so far about their options to support their regulation needs whether they are in the classroom, with their family or out in the community.
Phase IV is Application:
The final phase of the RtLP framework is to apply everything theyâve learned ongoing in every aspect of their daily lives. Supports are individualized to each studentâs needs. The goal of this phase is to create a sensory lifestyle to maximize participation and performance. Throughout this framework a student and their educator gain an understanding of personal sensory needs to create unique strategies that are impactful
to regulation. Sensory processing disorders can get in the way of fully engaging in oneâs environment, so caregiver coaching is a very big element. While trying to achieve the right level of internal balance, this long standing phase may increase the students' readiness to learn and ability to more effectively access their educational programs in order to improve occupational performance.
Example of how someone may implement this plan:In Phase I a child is learning about their sensory experiences and strategies to manage their needs.
In Phase II a child might be exhibiting sensory clues by squinting his or her eyes as well as tensing their muscles. With coaching the child and caregiver can connect the scattered action to the system of eyes and pressure. Reflecting on the categories of eyes and pressures, a strategy or support can be chosen. That could mean wearing sunglasses and squeezing a stress ball.
An example of Phase III would be looking at pressure-based options across environments. A big, bear hug might be acceptable with a trusted family member, but
not so much as a young adult in a work environment.Phase IV is about maintaining a sensory lifestyle
How can the guest be contacted about starting the RtLP framework?
If your child is seeing an OT, talk to your childâs occupational therapist about seeking outmore information in regards to the Ready to Learn and Play framework. Parents can also contact us directly to compliment what they or their therapists are already doing. Ready to Lean and Play offers professional training as well as parent and school based training.Recap:
Phase I: Sensory Experience involves exploring various sensory inputs and learning to
The ready to learn and play sensory regulation Framework was created by Janis Leinfuss, Amanda Newchok, and Erin OâHara. It was created to empower caregivers and kids to better understand sensory processing needs and be able to develop strategies to help kids self-regulate in various contexts. The framework has 4 phases. Sensory experience, sensory choices, generalization, and application.
categorize those sensory experiences and learning sensory regulation strategies. Phase II: Sensory choices involve using behaviors (scattered actions) as clues to
understand what sensory needs there may be and empower the child to use the learned
strategies to be able to self-regulate. Phase III: Generalization involves applying sensory regulation strategies to various
contexts and environments. Phase IV: Application involves providing ongoing supports to create a âsensory lifestyleâResources:
Ready to Learn and Play contact info:
Facebook @Ready to learn and play
Website: www.readytolearnandplay.com
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 201-563-2773
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Facebook: Pure Hearts Therapy
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Guest: Michele Thorne
Interview
Parents and caregivers of children with autism often feel overwhelmed. They can feel uncertain on where or how to learn about ways of taking care of their own needs, as well as absorbing all the knowledge they can obtain to create strong, healthy, and empowered lifestyles for their families.
Michelle Thorne is a mother of two children. She is the Founder and Executive Director of Care 4 the Caregivers that is based out of Arizona. Michelle was living a planned life that was taken off course when her children were diagnosed with autism. She fell into a deep depression that led to the question of why there was no organization dedicated to the needs of supporting parents and caregivers in her new community. In her opinion, the disability community as a whole is sorely overlooked, so she set out to create an organization that provides support and access to resources available to the public.
What sort of resources does Care 4 the Caregivers offer?
Educational webinars of various topics 21 day fitness programs that can be done at home Guided meditation Roadmaps that are step by step guides to navigate systems of care Parent Empowerment course: Stepping Stones Triple PHow does a family access the Stepping Stones Triple P program?
Through grants the program is taught all online through the Care 4 the Caregivers website. Families from other states may access the program as well. They are currently offering free life coaching for caregivers. Partnered with the Arizona Caregiver Coalition, there are also free health and wellness coaches for the caregiving community.
Are all the services free to parents?
Yes!!! The goal is to provide completely free services and resources to the community. There are also some free events for the caregiver to attend and enjoy.
Visual supports for families
On the Care 4 the Caregivers website you can go to the resource by topic section to find visual supports without having to jump through hoops. Through the work of an Arizonan illustrator you can find free visual support on techniques like getting dressed or hand washing.
Take away message from guest
The beginning years are difficult, but youâre not alone. There is a community of men and women that can be huge levers of support. Find your Tribe!!!
Recap
Michelle faced struggles understanding the system, and how to raise her children with limited resources Michelle created Care 4 the Caregivers for those who are going through similar struggles Care 4 the Caregivers provides a variety of free resources Michelle encourages finding a support system that can become your tribeResources:
Care4thecaregivers.org
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Facebook: Pure Hearts Therapy
Facebook Group: Autism Family Toolkit
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Guest Speaker
Crestina Yaiva is a mother of twins. She and her husband have one child who has been diagnosed with autism, and struggles with communication. She shares her story, and how she learned to overcome obstacles of communicating with her non-speaking child.
What were Crestinaâs first thoughts and feelings when she learned her son was autistic?
Around three years old Crestina noticed that Franco had some speech delays, and wouldnât talk as much as his brother Vincent. When he was officially diagnosed around the age of four, Crestina felt somewhat relieved to have a place to start understanding her child better. However, she was also very overwhelmed by all the information and such that was being given to her. The first thing she did was join every Facebook group she could find from local to national. Her focus/goal was to learn how to better handle her sonâs diagnosis.
After some research, what did Crestina do to solidify her next moves?
Once Franco completed testing, he was set up with a developmental pediatrician. Crestina was given a research book to help guide her on this new journey with her child. Crestina jumped into action setting Franco up with speech therapy, occupational therapy, and any other type of therapy that would aid in her sonâs development. From there, she searched the internet for any reading material to further her knowledge. There were a couple books that proved to be very resourceful to her and her husband. Crestina found the book The Reason I Jump by Naoki Higashida to be her favorite. It truly helped her understand some of her sonâs behavior, such as the random breakdowns and sensory overloads her son went through without her knowing the cause. She realized in her sonâs mind time is not linear, and that changed her perspective for the better. As for her husband, the book Not My Boy by Kelly Simmons caused him to find a way to better cope with his sonâs diagnosis and build a stronger relationship with him.
What are some learning points that helped Crestina to connect more with her child from a non-speaking perspective?
As a mother Crestina has the natural ability to anticipate her childrenâs wants and needs before they could even try to tell her. Crestina had to learn to take a step back, and create more opportunities for her sonâs to find ways to express themselves without her doing it for them. This would help them to expand their communication skills.
What are some examples of how Crestina created opportunities for her children to learn to communicate on their own?
Crestina did her best to keep everything in sight, but out of reach. This included anything from toys to snacks. Her husband even built shelves to help as well. Through trial and error they began to find ways for their children to use different methods of body language and such to communicate their needs.
What is the advice Crestina would give to other parents with non-speaking children?
The biggest thing is to have patience. Children will not always communicate the way we may expect them too. Remaining open, receptive, and acknowledging of your childâs style of communication you can provide a sense of comfort and reassurance they will need.
Recap:
Seek the guidance and aid of a developmental pediatrician.
Understand your childâs perspective, and find ways to connect
Anticipate behaviors and communication, but find ways to create learning opportunities for your child to communicate.
Resources:
Recommended articles related to non-verbal communication
https://www.thefca.co.uk/fostering-autistic-children/communicating-with-a-nonverbal-child/
https://www.friendshipcircle.org/blog/2013/04/16/23-ways-to-communicate-with-a-non-verbal-child/
https://www.appliedbehavioranalysisedu.org/6-strategies-for-encouraging-a-non-verbal-child-to-communicate/
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Guest Intro:
Dawn M. Barclay is an award-winning author with over 30 years of experience in her career of learning and sharing the different aspects of travel. After graduating from Tufts University with degrees in psychology and marketing, she began working as an agent at her parentsâ firms, Barclay Travel Ltd and Barclay International Group Short-Term Apartment Rentals. From there she moved on to the business of travel trade reporting. She held the titles of senior or contributing author for Travel Agent Magazine, Travel Life, Travel market report, and most recently Insider Travel Report. Dawn is a mother of two residing in Hudson Valley, NY. She writes fiction under the alias of D.M. Barr while maintaining leadership roles in several writer organizations. Her new book Traveling Different is available now to preorder in hardcover form or as an audiobook.
Interview:
As far as travel is concerned, what is the biggest concern among families?
Families with special needs are often nervous about the sensory issues they will encounter, the meltdowns that may occur as a result, and how those around them might perceive the situation. In a study by the IBCCES (International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards), out of 1,000 parents with special needs children interviewed 87 percent of them choose not to travel. From that group 93 percent would travel if they knew where to go or what to do.
What inspired Dawn to write her book Traveling Different?
In the early 2000s Dawn looked for a book that could help guide her, but was unsuccessful. In 2008 she started interviewing for the book she has now written. She spoke with autism and ADHD professionals until she hit a wall. When she discovered the IBCCES group a program they created helped navigate her way to writing her book. Due to the covid pandemic she utilized her time to conduct research and a series of interviews for which the book is based on.
Recap:
1- Preparation: Children with sensory issues need a sense of predictability. Give your child a start to finish preview from the trip. This can be done in a few different ways.
Think through from beginning to end Preview it for predictability Social stories, videos, experiences (house or friend)2- Make the trip âchild-centric'': Plan a trip around their needs and interests.
Plan the trip around their needs Pace activities during the trip Cater to their special interests3- You have resources: There are several hotels, airlines, and travel sites that have labeled themselves as autistic friendly or certified autism centers that have devoted their time in training individuals to handle those who have special needs.
Her book lists phone numbers and URLâs for many places Museums, parks may have special travel related events and activities thatâs Autism friendly. Her website is constantly being updatedResources:
www.travelingdifferent.com
www.dawnbarclayink.com
Autistic Family Travel Resources in Arizona
https://www.visitmesa.com/autism-travel/ https://arcarizona.org/what-we-do/wings-for-autism/ https://www.azcentral.com/story/entertainment/events/2020/04/09/autism-friendly-places-phoenix-pal-experiences-diamondbacks-suns-mercury-restaurants-museums/5006120002/ https://www.belikebuddy.com/arizonaSubscribe Now & Leave a Review
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www.pureheartstherapy.com
Follow Us:
Facebook: Pure Hearts Therapy
Facebook Group: Autism Family Toolkit
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Guest Introduction:
Catie Sondrol is an occupational therapist and co-owner of Milemarkes therapy who has served many families throughout the Mohave Valley county in Arizona for the past 18 years. They provide occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, music therapy, habilitation, and adult day programs and work service programs. She has completed mentorship training with the STARS Institute and Avanti Therapeutic Projects.
Interview from the dialogue:
How would you in your own words describe sensory difficulties for the clientâs you have seen in your past?
Confusion, disorganization, or chaos of inputs to the body. When the brain is connecting the dots, the 8 senses afford a clear understanding of whatâs happening both inside and outside of the body. But when the mangled messages become impairing or overwhelming it can lead to a variety of defensive behaviors.
Do only children on the spectrum experience sensory issues?
No, sensory doesnât discriminate. Oftentimes there is a comorbidity. Sometimes there isnât.
What may sensory processing difficulties look like?
Avoiding or shutting down, fleeing or escaping, or anger and fighting. When the body becomes overwhelmed by an input or is confused by how to process the input these external âbehaviorsâ are what we often see. Routine and structure become input in the personâs life so that they can structure their environment to minimize the likelihood of experiencing the noxious sensory event.
What are the various sensory (senses) that individuals may have trouble with?
We all learn about our 5 senses in school. So of course those are senses we can have trouble with. But in OT school we learn about 3 other senses. Interoceptive, vestibular, and proprioceptive.
Is my child hyposensitive or hypersensitive?
We need to be careful with over all classifications or generalizations. Individuals are often a mixed back of this and it is specific to the sensory system. Example I might be hypersensitive to vestibular input meaning I donât like to swing and feel like I am going to throw up, but I might be hyposensitive to touch which means I seek a lot of touch and deep pressure.
We are talking about implementation of a sensory diet. You like to call it a sensory lifestyle. Can you elaborate more on that?
A diet is a planned and scheduled activity program designed to meet a childâs individual sensory needs.
A diet is something you discontinue. A lifestyle is something you maintain over a lifespan. Our sensory systems evolve and change as we grow, mature, have different environmental demands, etc. so it is only natural that your sensory supports need to grow and change too.
Sensations are like âfoodâ for our nervous system. Without a good supply and wide range of sensations the nervous system cannot develop to itâs maximum potential.
Look at your own sensory lifestyle: when you are stressed do you chew gum, smoke, go for a run, punch a punching bagâŚ..
How do you implement a sensory lifestyle?
Remember it is individualized! Sensory experiences should be part of everyoneâs day, every day. Play is an essential part of a childâs development and is enriched with lots of sensory experiences.
You need to consider the âwhyâ or what the person is trying to get from the current sensory inputs in their day.
Need to consider the frequencyâŚ.how often should they get input
Consider the durationâŚ.when they get it for how long do they need it
Consider the intensityâŚ.how much of it should they getâŚwhat is the impactâŚthe bang for your buck!
*Remember if there is a sensory âbehaviorâ you are trying to eliminate you canât take away because it has a purpose (example chewing on a shirt)âŚ.you have to know the âwhyâ and then find a socially appropriate replacement that will meet or exceed the threshold the body is receiving from it.
***It should leave a child feeling organized, good, and grounded.
Doesnât always have to purchased equipmentâŚ.get creative with play.---making a fort, ninja warrior
Sensory âsmartâ home: quiet spaces, reducing visual clutter
Pressure garments
Fidget toys
Weighted blankets or vests
Chewable âjewelryâ
Colored lenses
Noise reducing headphones
Music
Bouncy or moving chairs
Swing
Dream pad
Lycra bed sheets
Recap:
Sensory processing is:
How we take in, understand and organize the sensory input we receive in our world.
Sensory processing difficulties happen when a person is not effectively processing the sensory input they are receiving.
This can present as behaviors in an attempt to manage the input.
The 8 senses that can be impacted by sensory processing difficulties are:
Touch
Smell
Taste
Vision
hearing
Vestibular inner ear where we are at and orientated
Interoception internal environment sleepy hungry
Proprioception pressure joints movements
When implementing a sensory lifestyle remember:
Your child may need a lot of input from one sense and little or less input from another sensation.
Consider frequency, intensity, and duration of the sensory activity
Continue to make adjustments as our sensory needs may change day to day and overtime.
Resources:
To learn more about Milemarkerâs therapy in Arizona or to reach out to Catie directly for more resources visit:
https://www.milemarkers.us/
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