As the step-parent of an autistic boy, I often worry that neurotypical people will not recognize his kind heart and amazing mind. These picture books show autism from many different perspectives, and hopefully will show children on the autism spectrum that their unique gifts and contributions are just as important as those of neurotypical kids. […]
Continue readingChildren with autism and other special needs frequently engage in challenging behaviors that negatively affect the whole family. For families seeking solutions, it’s important to remember that challenging behavior serves a purpose for the child. According to Behavior Analyst, Meme Hieneman, if we pay attention, the behavior can communicate important information. She says, “The purpose […]
Continue readingAs a stepparent of a developmentally delayed boy with autism, my life has changed during the past year. While I am happy with our decision to keep him home for remote learning, it has been exhausting trying to navigate virtual school, his care, and our work schedules. Here are some of the ways we have […]
Continue readingAn anxiety disorder is characterized by debilitating fear and worry. It can be a specific phobia, social anxiety, separation anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, or general anxiety disorder, which is constant worrying about lots of things. Panic disorder is a sudden, intense episode of anxiety that can cause hyperventilating and a pounding heartbeat. All forms of […]
Continue readingJob-seeking can be a frustrating process for anyone, but for those on the autism spectrum, it can be particularly confusing. In their Employment Tool Kit, the nonprofit organization Autism Speaks has some helpful advice for the job search process. We highly recommend you download the full tool kit. 1. Get Organized Use a binder to save all […]
Continue readingBecause special needs children face a broad spectrum of challenges from emotional to behavioral and educational, developing confidence in their own abilities, also known as self-esteem, is not as straightforward as it might be for a neurotypical child. But it is essential for anyone’s well-being to develop positive self-esteem. According to Kidshealth.org, self esteem develops […]
Continue readingThis article is written from the perspective of a parent with a special needs child navigating through these challenging times.The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the routines of everyone, in school and out, but special needs students are more affected by these disruptions than most. Under the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), school districts in […]
Continue readingStressful life events can range from loss, difficulty with relationships, family instability, difficulty at home or school, new life transitions, and physical or medical struggles. In addition to these common life stressors, some children experience trauma, defined by the American Psychiatric Association as “exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury or sexual violence.” Stressful […]
Continue readingStressful life events can disrupt a child’s life and severely impact their mental health. Special needs children can be affected adversely by what may seem to be small things such as a change in routine or family life. But they are also more likely than neurotypical children to be affected by traumatic events such as […]
Continue readingAlpha School’s Sara Stockton’s Class Awarded Erma Dorrer GrantThe First Financial Foundation has offered current Monmouth and Ocean County educators seven classroom grants to use at their schools for the 2019-2020 school year. One of the recipients is Alpha School special education teacher, Sara Stockton, who was awarded a $500 Erma Dorrer classroom grant. Ms. […]
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