Pea of Sweetness

Helpful Autism Resources

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April is Autism Awareness Month (I’ve even seen it called “Autism Acceptance Month”), and each year I usually post my thoughts on Autism Awareness or experiences as a mother of a child on the Autism Spectrum. This year, though, I wanted to change it up a little to share a round-up of Autism resources. I know firsthand how lost we can sometimes feel, and we scour the internet for resources to support us on our journey. Sometimes we can really feel isolated and alone.
All of our journeys are different, but you’re not alone. I wanted to share resources for a broad spectrum because I know, for example, although we homeschool our special needs children, many people need access to resources in the public school system. Although our son is young, you may have an older child or are an adult on the Autism Spectrum. Wherever your are on your journey, I hope you find this list of resources helpful.
(I plan to continue to add to this list of resources as I discover more helpful resources because I know there are many more. If you know of any you have found particularly, please do share! Bookmark this post for easy reference.)

Autism Resources

Autism Resources

I plan to go through those that offer lists and choose the resources I find most helpful from them to save a step, but I wanted to get a list of resources in front of you so you can easily find the resources your family needs. I am always happy to connect and talk with and pray with/for you any time you just need to connect or support and encouragement. Days (or weeks or months) can be tough, but you’re not alone – we’re not alone.

SimplyFun's Autism Initiative

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Having a child on the Autism spectrum, I love to hear about different things companies offer to those on the Autism Spectrum. I have enjoyed working with SimplyFun, and when they shared their Autism Initiative with me, I was definitely excited to learn more about it and share it!
Disclosure: I am sharing information about the SimplyFun Autism Initiative simply because I appreciate what they are doing. This particular post is not a sponsored post. Please refer to my disclosures within individual posts for information on the disclosure for that post.
Learn more about SimplyFun’s Autism Initiative in the Press release below, and stay tuned! SimplyFun graciously offered to let us review a some games that are recommended to build on common strengths found with children on the Autism spectrum.
SimplyFun's Autism Initiative
SEATTLE– (April 18, 2015) SimplyFun, LLC., is a developer of award winning educational board games that allow children to build their core thinking, academic and life skills through game play. SimplyFun is supporting autism awareness through initiatives designed to holistically support children with autism by both addressing their unique challenges and building on their strengths and interests. This extra focus on the child’s strengths and interests is unique to SimplyFun. It comes from their commitment to finding ways for all children to reach their potential, experience pride in accomplishment, and connect with family and friends.
To further their commitment to supporting children with autism, SimplyFun is introducing another approach to game analysis. Children with autism have many strengths that may be overlooked due to the typical focus on concerns. For this reason, SimplyFun is presenting how certain games in their catalog can capitalize on things children with autism may do well, while providing an important venue through which parents and children can connect.
“It has been such a learning experience to work with our Play Advisory Council experts, Dr. Toni Linder and Matt Brown to define an approach that we believe can help give parents of children with autism hope for their child’s future while creating a point of connection with their child through game play,” says SimplyFun President and CEO, Patty Pearcy.
“Board, card, and action games can serve a valuable role in the life of the child with autism” explains SimplyFun Play Advisory Council member and independent game evaluator, Toni Linder. “Through these types of games, children with autism learn to take turns, pay attention to others’ needs, communicate with and interact with others in a positive and motivating way.  Games provide a structured form of play that give children with autism a framework for engagement with others, a set of rules to follow to give them a sense of security, and a goal to work toward.  Games can also allow children with autism the means for expressing and sharing their strengths with others in a way that is nurturing and fun,” says Linder who goes on to say that “Many children with autism have strong visual or verbal memories, spatial reasoning abilities, interests in and skills with numbers or letters, and strengths in many other skill areas. Children love to do things they enjoy and are good at, so we want to help match games to strengths.”
Play Advisor Council member Matt Brown enthusiastically adds, “Last year, I helped develop guidelines for parents, teachers and other care-givers to find games that help remediate areas of need for children with autism.  That was valuable, yet only addressed one half of the child.  Children with autism also have great strengths and interests.  That is why I am more excited than ever to be collaborating on a new set of guidelines that will help adults find games that build on those strengths and interests.  I believe that everyone needs to experience competency and be valued for what makes them unique, since we are all our own snowflake.  And, children with autism deserve to be celebrated and encouraged to pursue their passions and grow their skills.”
About SimplyFun
SimplyFun produces award-winning games designed for educating kids and connecting families. Developed with a focus on making learning fun, SimplyFun games help kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens, develop communication, math and science skills, express creativity, collaborate with others and enhance their critical thinking. Founded in 2004, SimplyFun provides its Direct Sales Playologist consultants the ability to change lives with its educational games while earning unlimited income through direct sales opportunities in person and online. In addition, SimplyFun’s new Gameraising program gives schools the ability to earn much needed funds while raising the leaning and raising the fun. http://www.simplyfun.com.
About Toni Linder
Toni Linder, Ed.D., Professor Emeritus, Child, Family, and School Psychology Program, Morgridge College of Education, University of Denver, University Park, Denver, CO 20208.
Dr. Toni Linder is a leader in the field of early childhood development and early childhood special education. She works with children of diverse backgrounds and ability levels, including children who are gifted and talented, have disabilities, come from backgrounds of poverty, and those from multicultural backgrounds.
She is particularly known for her work on authentic assessment for young children and is the author of Transdisciplinary Play-based Assessment and Transdisciplinary Play-based Intervention (1990, 1993, 2008). In addition, she developed Read, Play, and Learn (1999), an inclusive, literature and play-based curriculum for preschool and kindergarten children to enhance their learning and development.
Dr. Linder consults nationally and internationally on assessment, intervention, early childhood education, program and curriculum development, family involvement issues, and the importance of play to children’s development. She has a particular interest in the importance of play for children with autism. Dr. Linder has conducted research on a variety of issues, including observation of play skills, transdisciplinary influences on development, parent-child interaction, curriculum outcomes, math and literacy learning, and using technology for professional development in rural areas.
About Matt Brown
For over 20 years Matt has been leading high-performing teams to develop vibrant business cultures, invent and launch high-impact branded platforms, and turn around underperforming brands and businesses. Matt consults with Fortune 500 and early stage companies. He has been an SVP at Scholastic, President of Klutz, Vice-President of LeapFrog, Chief Gaming Officer at Conteneo and Chief Stategist at Speck Design. He also co-founded a couple of companies including big BOING, and integrated strategy, innovation and development company that partnered with Kraft, Disney, Coca Cola, Nickelodeon, Hasbro, Learning Curve and others to invent, design and launch major domestic and international brands.
He clerked for Judge Oliver Seth in the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals, which means he used to be an attorney, but don’t hold that against him. He speaks at conferences, lectures at universities and writes for magazines.  Matt is an advisor for PBS Kids, GoAnimate, Vital Smarts and Eyefluence. Matt lives in Berkeley, CA with his wife, daughter and 3 dogs. Matt and his daughter are trying to visit all 50 state capitals. Boise is next!
SOURCE SimplyFun, LLC
Related links: SimplyFun Approach to Autism Needs
 

Light It Up Blue 2015 – What Autism Awareness Means to Me

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It’s that time of year again to Light It Up Blue, and today is the day! April is Autism Awareness month. World Autism Awareness Day is April 2nd. Many people put up blue lights or wear blue – all to join Autism Speaks to shine a light on Autism by raising awareness. It begins April 2nd and lasts all month long. Many are doing this in support of friends and family and many of us are living it every day and appreciate the extra awareness this brings!
But what is Autism Awareness? Last year I shared Brayden’s story – our son who is on the Autism Spectrum. I included how we discovered he is on the Autism Spectrum, what his diagnosis (PDD-NOS or high functioning Autism) really means, and our journey to diagnosis. If you don’t yet know our son’s story, I would love for you to read and share his story as well!
Why? Because it matters. Autism Awareness matters, and many of us are on this journey. In fact, 1 in 88 people are on the Autism Spectrum, but everybody’s journey is different. By sharing our personal journey I hope to reach others and raise more awareness. Brayden will be turning 9 this month, and I’m so proud of how hard he works to overcome his challenges.
Light It Up Blue for Brayden
I think we have made amazing strides in Autism Awareness, but I also think there is still a long way to go. I think one of the biggest challenges is understanding exactly how large the Autism spectrum is. As I mentioned in last year’s post, our son being high functioning on the Autism spectrum is both a blessing and a challenge. People who are high functioning on the spectrum are often misunderstood. Actually, I’m certain everyone on the Autism Spectrum is misunderstood, but those that are high functioning are often misdiagnosed or thought by others to just be “weird. Yes, many people have referred to Brayden as “weird” and it’s frustrating because they don’t understand he is on the Autisum Spectrum. To people who don’t see him every day or know him well besides “weird” we often hear things like “Oh, he’s just a boy.”
Just a boy? Boys are rambunctious for sure. We have two of them. Most boys like to ride bikes. Brayden can’t because his gross motor skills are weak and even with training wheels he tips the bike. Most boys like to play in the dirt. Brayden won’t because he doesn’t like to get dirty. In fact, getting dirty can cause a meltdown.
With time and therapy, Brayden has worked through his challenges and come a long way. It doesn’t change the fundamental fact, though, that he will always be a little different. And you know what? Different is OK. It’s who he is. Yes, there are things that are scary and we need to work on frequently – like hugging, kissing, and saying “I love you” to strangers is NOT OK. In the wrong situation, it could be dangerous. It brings a whole new meaning to not understanding “stranger danger.”

Light it Up Blue
Photo Courtesy of World Autism Day
It’s the responses, though, that makes me aware that others aren’t aware. Responses to those inappropriate social gestures which expand beyond inappropriate affection to just saying whatever is on his mind and wanting to do everything his way – no matter what everybody else is doing. And yes, being rambunctious. It’s the dirty looks, the shocking looks, or the inappropriate comments (like saying someone is “weird!”). Even the reassuring comments like “oh, he’s just affectionate” aren’t helpful.
It makes me realize people don’t understand at all. I often have to explain he’s on the Autism Spectrum, but does it matter? Would they still react that way regardless? It’s an insensitivity people have to other people that are different. Would it be easier if he looked like he had a disability? Maybe, but sometimes even then I’m not sure.
To me, Autism Awareness is understand the Autism Spectrum – all of it from those that are non-verbal to those that may appear to just have a few quirks. They all have their own set of challenges. It’s about acknowledging the full spectrum and accepting it. Sometimes I think family members have the hardest time to accept someone is on the Autism Spectrum, but trying to make it into something it’s not – something that isn’t debilitating and totally innocent doesn’t help them progress to the level they could with the right kind of understanding, acceptance, and therapies they need.
It’s time to accept that there are 1 in 88 people that are on the Autism Spectrum, so when you interact with somebody that can’t look you in the eye, doesn’t seem to have a filter, interrupts what you’re saying, shies away from you, doesn’t speak back, hugs you when they just met you, screams at you when they just met you, or whatever that difference may be, accept that that’s who they are and don’t respond with shock, disgust, or even words of advice. Smile at them, smile at their parents if it’s their child, and know that a friendly response probably just made their whole day better. Even better? Teach your children to do the same!
Together we can make a difference!

Light It Up Blue

So will you be participating in Light It Up Blue this month? Check out World Autism Awareness Day on Facebook as well! Do you want to help? Visit my Light it Up Blue page to learn more and make a donation to Autism Speaks. Check out some of the amazing pictures and buzz shared across the web for those that are participating in Light It Up Blue!

Cedar Point is Participating in Light It Up Blue

Since moving to Ohio I have had the privilege of becoming a Cedar Point Blogger, and I was thrilled to discover they are participating in Light It Up Blue tonight! Check out their live feed! Here is just one of the rides (photo courtesy of Cedar Point):
Cedar Point Light It Up Blue
Thank-you for participating in Light It Up Blue and helping to encourage Autism Awareness!
 

2014 Holiday Gift Guide Sponsor Spotlight – Chewigem

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In September my daughter and I had the chance to review some beautiful stylish sensory chewelry from Chewigem. We both have Sensory Processing Disorder and tend to chew on things for oral input. I had never considered something like chewelry for myself, though I definitely considered it not only for our daughter but our sons as well!
Chewigem Logo
Are you looking for a holiday gift for special needs family members or friends?
Chewigem offers a wide variety discreet chewelry that is great for mild to moderate chewers. They are made of FDA approved silicone and are lead, latex, BPA, PVC and phthalate free. The styles are fun yet discreet. I can wear my Raindrop Pendant with just about any outfit and nobody would ever know it’s a “special necklace.” Aurora chose a really cute cat design that definitely stands out a little more, but again, many people wouldn’t suspect it fulfills a need other than just being a cute necklace!
Chewigem Discreet Stylish Sensory Chewelry
Chewgem not only offers necklaces but bangles as well. So if you know a boy or man with sensory needs who wouldn’t be too keen on the idea of wearing a “necklace,” the bangles would be a great option!

Who would benefit from Chewigem?

Perhaps you’re doing your Christmas shopping for a family member or friend with special needs, and you’re not quite sure who would be the ideal recipient for Chewigem chewelry. I mentioned Sensory Processing Disorder as that is what my daughter and I have. Many of us with SPD chew for sensory input, but not all of us do. It’s a pretty safe bet, though, that if they have SPD they will enjoy Chewigem. Our daughter also fidgets and likes to have things in her hand, and her Cat – Meowza necklace is great for that as well! It is important to check, though, if they are a mild to moderate chewer (if they are a chewer) versus a heavy chewer as they are not designed for heavy chewers.
People on the Autism Spectrum also often have sensory needs. Our oldest son is on the Autism spectrum, and he also chews on things. Again, you will need to know if they are a mild to moderate chewer.

Chewigem Bubba Bangles
Photo courtesy of ChewigemUSA.com
When in doubt – ask! As a special needs mom, I can’t tell you how many times I have added therapy products to our Christmas list. So many people are afraid to ask about it, though, and we don’t often receive them. They are SO helpful for families like ours, though. If you are shopping for a family member or friend with special needs or who have special needs children, don’t be afraid to ask if they may need something like Chewigem.
Chewigem make a great holiday gift! They are fun, stylish, and help fulfill a need! For our family, those are definitely the best type of gifts!

For More Information:

Visit the Chewigem Webiste
Connect with Chewigem on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest