livebeyondautism

  GET TO KNOW YOUR AUTISTIC CHILD Connecting with an autistic child can feel like an uphill challenge, especially if the child is nonverbal or shows little interest in interacting with others. Even autistic children who are considered high functioning can seem standoffish or unwilling to form an emotional connection. The first step in opening up a relationship with an autistic child is learning about them and embracing who they are.  Understand what bothers them. Is the autistic child you’re trying to connect with hypersensitive to touch, sounds, light, tastes, smells, or colors? Any one of these sensory experiences can cause them to turn away from your efforts to form a close bond. It can even result in a meltdown. If you’re going to have a meaningful connection, you will have to create a safe space for them to express themselves. And that means enjoying time with them in an environment that doesn’t trigger an outburst or cause them to shut down.  Communicate clearly and...

There’s something special about Sundays. For me, it’s a day to slow down, recharge, and savor the simple joys of life. This morning began in the best way possible—cooking breakfast for my family. The kitchen came alive with the sounds of sizzling bacon, and freshly brewed coffee, and the chatter of my kids as they eagerly waited for their favorite dishes. Pancakes, scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and a side of fruit—it wasn’t fancy, but it was made with love. Watching my family dig in, exchanging smiles and stories from the week, reminded me that these small moments are the heart of everything. Once the plates were cleared and the kitchen was (mostly) tidied up, I claimed the afternoon for myself. The couch became my sanctuary, and Netflix was my companion. I let myself get lost in a new series, the kind that pulls you into another world and makes you forget about the to-do list. It was the perfect escape, made even better with a cozy blanket and a warm cup of tea. As I sat back, I reali...

  🌟 Special Needs Parenting Tip Of The Day ❤️  Navigating Florida's Rainy Season with Autism: Tips and Strategies for a Calm and Enjoyable Experience Living in Florida with a child on the autism spectrum can be challenging, especially during the rainy season. From May to October, Florida's torrential downpours and unpredictable storms can disrupt routines and trigger anxiety. As a parent of an autistic son, I've learned valuable lessons on how to make this time of year more manageable and enjoyable for him. Preparation is Key Before the rain starts, prepare a "Rainy Day Kit" with essentials like: · Waterproof clothing and gear (jackets, pants, shoes, hats) · Comfort items (favorite toys, blankets, headphones) · Sensory-friendly activities (playdough, coloring books, puzzles) · Visual aids (rainy day schedules, social stories) Creating a Calming Environment At home: · Use soothing colors and lighting · Maintain a consistent routine · Offer indoor play alternatives...

  Today, I’m celebrating my son’s hard work and success in his recent testing with one of his favorite dishes—Jamaican Ackee and Saltfish. As a mother to a son with autism, I know how meaningful these moments of achievement are, and I love showing him how proud I am in ways that resonate with him. Food is a big part of our connection, and this special meal is my way of honoring his determination, focus, and the unique journey we share. Celebrating these wins reminds me to cherish the small victories that mean so much. 👉 be sure to check out my blog for more special needs parenting tips and resources 🙏❤️. 🔗 in my profile 👆 #autism #autismawareness #specialneeds #specialneedsparenting #tipoftheday

  As hard as it is to admit, in the shadows of my heart, I was bargaining with God. “Yes  , my son has some setback, but he will catch up. Life can still go back to normal.  Through those seemingly endless months of too much paperwork and too many appointments and too much grief and too many hurdles with a three year old and our daughter around 7 years old at the time. But there was a bible verse  that I’ve found very encouraging especially in difficult times.  Deuteronomy 31:8  And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; Do not fear or be dismayed. In  Life’s path for an autism parent and their child can seem uncertain, uncharted, undefined, and uncomfortable. Life for any person is uncertain but we have to have conversation with God. Psalms 34:18  The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.  Being a special needs parent will bre...

  Hey parents! As a mom of an neurodiversity child, I get how tough haircuts can be. We've gone from cutting his hair in his sleep, to meltdowns at the salon, to now happily sitting in the barber chair independently. "Getting a haircut can be a daunting experience for autistic children, with sensory sensitivities and anxiety often leading to meltdowns. But with the right approach, haircuts can be a breeze! In our ultimate guide, we'll share expert tips and tricks for creating a stress-free experience, from preparing your child in advance to finding an understanding stylist. Discover how to turn a potentially overwhelming task into a positive and empowering experience for your child. With patience, communication, and creativity, haircuts can become a confidence-boosting ritual for your autistic child - and a sigh of relief for you!"