07 Dec 2018 
Twinkling lights, giant singing displays, evergreen scents permeating the house, and candy canes hanging from a tree that is suddenly sprouting from your living room. It’s natural for sensory overload to come into play. Even if a child with autism doesn’t have sensory issues, the sudden change in environment could spark caution or a meltdown. To ease the transition into a winter wonderland, consider allowing your kiddo to choose the decorations for your home. Have him or her help trim the tree or decide where to place the holiday items if that makes sense for your family. Avoid flashing lights, sparkling ornaments, and décor with sounds, if that’s what bothers your child.
For those touched by ASD, shopping outings can be tough any time of year. The holidays escalate the stimuli. Good thing we live in an age of online shopping where Amazon Prime can be your best friend if you need something in a hurry. But what if you want that one-of-a-kind gift from the neighborhood boutique or there’s a great in-store discount available at the mall? Or maybe you just want to experience the fun of shopping? In those cases, let your child know ahead of time where you’re going and what to expect. Prepare a schedule and consider sharing photos of the place you’re going. Also, decide who to shop for in advance…it may not be realistic to buy for everyone your kiddo wants, so it’s important to set expectations before you leave the house. Avoid peak times in an effort to limit the mall’s chaos. When you’re leaving the house, anticipate the environment and bring noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses or a comfort item as a backup.
Opening presents around other family members can be overstimulating, especially if there are a lot of gifts or other kids involved. What’s under the wrapping paper can pose also challenges for individuals with ASD, and you may not know how your child will react. If possible, talk to family and friends in advance to share his or her interests and anything that might unknowingly cause distress. This is a happy time, so set up the unwrapping experience in a way that is comfortable for your child. Maybe that means opening one at a time and spacing them out a little. Or take some home to open privately… don’t feel pressured to do this in front of the gift-giver. You can always explain the situation and follow up with a thank-you card to show appreciation.
Here’s a tough one that isn’t confined to the holiday season. Your child may not like the way cold weather clothing feels as much as summer styles, have temperature regulation challenges, or maybe loves snow so much that he darts outside without proper preparation. To combat this, explain why winter clothes are important in chilly weather (if appropriate). Have him or her pick out the accessories to make it more enjoyable. Consider finding a way to motivate and practice wearing the coat, hat, and boots before heading outside. It could be the reward of a cookie or a special activity. Laying clothes out the night before or using a visual guide can also help prepare for the weather.
Thanksgiving break is the perfect opportunity to slow down, enjoy family time, and celebrate what matters most. From expressing gratitude to creating holiday crafts to enjoying cozy indoor activities, we’ve put together a list here of ideas to make this Thanksgiving fun and meaningful for all ages! Starting New Traditions Taking time to reflect on […]
When planning for emergencies, it’s crucial to recognize that individuals with special needs—whether children or adults—may require extra attention and preparation. Emergencies such as natural disasters, power outages, or evacuations can be especially challenging for families and caregivers. Having a well-thought-out emergency preparedness plan can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll cover essential […]
Halloween is a time of excitement for many children, filled with costumes, candy, and fun activities. However, for children on the autism spectrum, Halloween can sometimes be overwhelming due to sensory sensitivities and unexpected changes in routine. With some planning and awareness, you can ensure your child has a safe, enjoyable, and stress-free Halloween. Understanding […]
Navigating the special education system can be overwhelming for parents, especially when it comes to understanding the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process. This guide will help you understand what an IEP is, how it is developed, and how you, as a parent, can play a vital role in ensuring your child receives the support they […]
Celebrating NICU Awareness Month September is NICU Awareness Month. It’s a time to honor families and health professionals who are part of the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), where premature babies (born before 37 weeks of pregnancy) or sick newborns are cared for. Many of the babies we see for services had a NICU stay. […]
Balance is a fundamental skill that plays a crucial role in a child’s physical development. It’s not just about standing on one foot or walking in a straight line; balance is integral to almost every physical activity, from running and jumping to sitting and standing. Developing strong balance skills early on can enhance your child’s […]
Total Education Solutions’ ABA Therapy Program Receives BHCOE Accreditation in California and Michigan, Adding to Existing Ohio Accreditation South Pasadena – July 24, 2024 – Total Education Solutions (TES Therapy), a leading provider of therapeutic and educational services, proudly announces that its Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) programs in California and Michigan have received full two-year […]
As the laidback days of summer give way to the structured rhythm of school bells, parents everywhere are gearing up for the excitement and challenges of a new academic year. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time parent of a school-aged child, navigating the academic calendar’s complexities can be exciting and daunting. Fear not, […]
Summer heatwaves can be a challenging time for everyone, but they can be particularly distressing for autistic children who often experience heightened sensory sensitivities. Understanding and learning how to manage these sensitivities can significantly impact your child’s comfort and well-being during extreme temperatures. Sensory Overload in the Heat ☀️ For many autistic children, the sensation […]
For many of us, Independence Day is a holiday we look forward to. We take a long weekend filled with parties, cookouts, and, of course, fireworks! The smell of the grill, the sight of large crowds gathered together, and the thrilling lights and sounds of the fireworks shows spectacular finish are just some reasons we […]
Avoiding screen time completely can be very challenging, if not impossible, in the world we live in. In fact, the appropriate amount of screen time for babies, toddlers, and young children is a topic of ongoing research and discussion among many experts. Why Does It Matter? It’s important to note that not all screen time […]
Yoga, an ancient practice that combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation, has gained significant popularity among adults in recent years. However, its benefits are not limited to grown-ups. Yoga offers a myriad of advantages for children, regardless of their age. From enhancing physical health to improving emotional well-being, yoga can play a crucial role […]
