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Each New Day Brings A Day of Opportunity, Hope and a Fresh Start.

November 20, 2014 Pamela Bryson-Weaver 1 Comment

Some days living with Autism can be challenging and draining but I can say each new day brings a day of opportunity, hope and a fresh start.

Ben is so special, and so very unique, he LOVES everyone! He hugs almost everyone he sees and meets and is smiling most of the time. Ben struggles with everyday tasks but exceeds with others. Show him something once and generally he has it…he can work most electronics better than me J

A little bit about Ben and his past…After many years of trying and going to doctor after doctor to have a child we decided to leave it in God’s hands and pray that he would answer our prayers, and he did! Not in the way we were thinking but, he answered them by adoption. He was born early and weighing in at a small bundle of joy of 4lbs, he had some health issues in his early part of life but was and remains perfect in our sight. He was diagnosed with GERD (acid reflex disease) and still to this day is being treated for it,he is now 3 ½ years old and was diagnosed at 3 months. As Ben grew and was getting older we noticed that he was not developing like the other children we knew that was near his age. And we continued to bring this up at each and every doctor apt. We as parents are our children’s BIGGEST advocates; we are their words, and actions!

His speech is coming along beautiful now but it wasn’t always that great, I prayed for the day I would here “wuv u mommy”, happy to say I hear this daily, most times its with coaching but regardless I hear it, we are constantly working and coaching, with speech we are on to two words sentences now..YAY!

WE as a family have learned to do what works; we do what works for us. If you walk into our house you will see many toy balls, all different colors and sizes, lots of things that play music or some sort of sound, cause these are things that he LOVES, and are used for rewards, our house is a home lots of finger prints on the walls/windows.

Even though some days or moments in our days can be challenging we are learning what works. For example we know slowing Ben down using some technique’s picking our battles not to worry so much about e single detail is a help. For example I use to be so stressed if Ben didn’t look in a camera lens when he was smaller but you know what that is not that big of deal, since I stopped stressing over this I have been able to capture some amazing pictures!

For the past year my husband has been battling cancer but still going strong, with this we have learned to slow life down and cherish each and every minute I have recently learned that as Ben grows, we grow with him learning to live with autism that life is really truly unique and can be wonderful.

I have learned to breathe and not sweat the small stuff so much. And to make everything a celebration. You should see the party we have when he goes potty!

I know living with autism can be challenging one of our biggest challenges right now is how Ben can be so impulsive, but living with autism can be so rewarding too.

Its important to stay strong and stay focused, they are worth it. And after all they are our babies.

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Autism and Disciplinary Intervention: Keeping Your Child Grounded

November 3, 2014 Pamela Bryson-Weaver Leave a comment

The current rise of Autism Spectrum Disorders cases came as a shock to many. This wide-ranging spectrum of disorders ranging from mild to severe do not only have a known “cure” but also lack concrete details on their likely causes. As statistics rise over the years and more challenges are set, parents, caregivers and educators will need more and more information and training on managing these challenging (and often, baffling) behaviors that are part and parcel of ASDs.

Common symptoms of ASD include dismal social skills, extreme rigidity, verbal impairment, obsessive routines, and uncontrollable preoccupation on objects. Most children with ASD display intense behavior and sudden changes can easily develop into horrendous temper tantrums or rage episodes commonly known as meltdowns. For children as young as 2 to 7, this condition may still be manageable but can be quite scary as they grow older. To prevent such from happening, the following disciplinary interventions can be done:

1. Direct and Controlled Verbal Message. Make use of direct but calm verbal message. Tone of voice must be neutral and the use of short, simple commands must be directly communicated to the child without giving an opportunity for choice. A no is a no! There should be no room for maybe. Do remember that kids living on the spectrum do not understand social cues. By being direct and “literal”, you can prevent them feeling overwhelmed by choices that their brains have a hard time processing.

2. Avoid Power Struggles. Confrontation can be overwhelming to a child with autism. As they tend to be “fixated” on things, engaging them in confrontation and power struggles can easily escalate into negative results. In most cases, this could lead to aggression that can be detrimental to the child’s safety or those around them.

3. Consistency is the key. Be firm and consistent when providing expectations. The more predictable the consequences to their behavior are presented, the easier it is for their brains to process and understand. Children with autism are fixed on “routine.” When transitions and change happens, the result can be dreadful.

4. Reward System. In the same way as treating toddlers, reward system is beneficial to children living on the spectrum. You can give reward to desirable behaviors as an “incentive.” On the other hand, limiting their interactions as well as stopping all desired requests can give them an idea the “good” and “bad” side of their behavior.

5. Proactive Approach. Beat the heat by being proactive. Try to avoid known triggers and provide a more structured environment. When changes are inevitable, it is important to teach your kids proper transitioning from one environment or situation to the next. This is one way of easing their discomfort and preventing the release of their panic button.

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Autism: Putting Sleeping Woes to Rest

October 29, 2014 Pamela Bryson-Weaver Leave a comment

Sleep can be quite a challenge to children with autism. At most 80% of children on the spectrum encounter sleep issues which can be disruptive to their progress. Sleep, as we all know, is a vital component in maintaining good health. It is not only essential for physical growth it also helps restore bodily functions, puts a shield to the body’s immune system, and enhances memory and learning.

For kids with autism, sleeping problems can heavily impact daytime behaviors. This insufficient sleep, when gone unattended, can turn their behavior from bad to worst. Autism sleep problems do not only affect the child per se, this also adds stress to the parents, siblings, and caregivers leading to more challenges.

Likely Causes
To combat sleep deprivation, it is imperative to first look at the likely causes of such difficulties. One of the most common reasons for sleep deprivation of kids with autism is environmental influence. It could be the physical aspect of his bedroom, of the people that surrounds him, or inadvertent behavioral shaping from a parent. The bedroom might be where he engages in play activities, or a parent must have been used to rocking her child to sleep leading to dependency, or too much noise in the neighborhood. Be reminded that children on the spectrum are ultra sensitive to light, touch and sounds.

Tips to A Goodnight’s Sleep
Children with autism often follow a consistent routine, and sleeping is no different. As a parent, it is important that you keep a sleep diary where you keep track of his sleeping time and take note of nighttime awakenings. This can require some efforts for at least a month so you can establish a pattern and be aware to various environmental factors contributing to the sleeping issues of your loved one.

Creating a visual schedule like a chart can be a useful tool to keep him informed and establish a routine. Try to infuse fun to the chart. Kids with autism can be highly visual in nature, and capturing their visual senses can often lead to a more relaxed routine set-up.

Try to establish a relaxed and calming atmosphere prior to bedtime. You may engage yourself, along with your child, with classical music to soothe their usually cranky nerves. Music is a universal language and, according to studies, many children with autism respond positively to classical music than any other genre. This type of music does not only calm their senses, it also enhances brain functions leading to their progress. Some children also respond better to hypnotic chants and sounds of nature. The key in all these, however, is consistency.

Some circadian rhythm disturbances to children with ASD can also be due to a medical condition. Allergies, acid reflux, sleep apnea, seizures, and night terrors are some of the most common medical conditions that ASD children have. These conditions require serious medical intervention to ensure safety and health of the child. To some, working with a sleep specialist can prove to be helpful.

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GFCF Diet: Foods to Eat and Avoid

September 5, 2014 Pamela Bryson-Weaver 1 Comment

Following a gluten-free, casein-free diet is one of the most popular methods among parents to children with autism. Though research remains inconclusive, a number of parents have show great support in vouching the effectiveness of the said diets. Not only does this diet treat children-with-autism’s gastrointestinal and allergy issues, it has also been known to result in lower meltdowns, hyperactivity, allergies and skin rashes, and seizures.

The GFCF Diet requires two basic protein eliminations – dairy and wheat—from a child with autism’s diet. This can be somewhat complicated as proteins are essential nutrients needed for children’s development. To some children with autism, however, these two groups of protein can make matters worse. To get you started on your GFCF Diet, here are some food lists to aid in your menu preparation.

What to Buy

Milk substitutes like rice milk, soy milk, hemp milk, and almond milk. Be attentive to the label though. It should not only state “dairy-free” but “casein-free.” Some dairy-free milk substitutes contain the casein protein as a thickener.
Soy-based dairy-free cheese products; make sure it’s casein-free
gluten-free bread usually made from tapioca or rice flour
minimally processed or, if possible, fresh meat out of the butcher’s den; if prepackaged, make sure to check label for the list of ingredients.
fresh poultry
fresh seafoods
fresh fruit and vegetables; if frozen, make sure it is not soaked in sauces or flavorings.
eggs do not contain gluten or casein but be mindful of the oil used in cooking

You can try shopping at a nearby farmers market or Whole Foods store near you for GFCF food brands. Vancouver has Cambie, Robson, and Kitsilano. Ontario has Oakville, Unionville, and Squage 1 Missisauga. There is also one in West Vancouver and another in Toronto – Yorkville.

What Not to Buy

foods containing gluten, such as, wheat, barley, rye, millet and oats
foods containing casein, such as, cheese, yogurt, cow/goat/lamb milk, breast milk, ice cream, and other dairy-based foods such as pasta, baked products, and sports drinks
prepackaged foods may sometimes be labeled as gluten-free or dairy-free or both, but do check the label closely as casein can be used as an ingredient

Indeed, autism spectrum disorders are complex neurological and developmental condition which still has no cure and no known causes. Though ABA therapies and other forms of treatments have been available, parents cannot help but find ways and means to make life a little easier for their kids on the spectrum. The GFCF Diet continually make waves nowadays but, before you engage your child on this diet, it is imperative that you seek out the advice of an accredited physician or nutrition/diet expert with hands-on experience on autism treatment to guarantee safety and health of your child.

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10 Methods of Autism Intervention

September 2, 2014 Pamela Bryson-Weaver 1 Comment

There is no doubt that early intervention can best deliver progress and results to children living in the shadows of Autism Spectrum Disorders and other developmental disorders. Autism Spectrum Disorders, or ASD, have a variety of treatments and therapies duly called “intervention” by experts.

It is important to understand that one intervention method can work for a child with autism but may not work with another. This is because each spectrum in ASDs is unique from each other. Any of these can overlap one another but, all the same, the effect can vary from child to child.

To understand about how Autism Spectrum Disorders are usually treated, here are some broad categories usually used for interventions. These are random ones picked from various resources. Treatment for ASD can be comprehensive and intensive, and research is still ongoing on various treatments, likely causes, and other factors which could aid in completing the puzzle. So, if you know another method, feel free to comment at the bottom of the page.

1. Standard Healthcare Services

Designed primarily to maintain good health and well-being of children with autism, these include wide-ranging “conventional” (widely-accepted) treatments, therapies and/or interventions carried out by health care professionals such as doctors, occupational and physical therapists, psychologists, speech-language therapists, and many more. A variety of approaches and methods are usually combined on these services. For example, an ABA expert working with a speech pathologist and occupational therapists to provide complete intervention to a child or adult with autism.

2. Complementary/Alternative Medicine

Let’s point out the difference. Complementary medicine usually works together with standard healthcare services while alternative medicine works in place of conventional techniques. Paediatricians with background on autism can work alongside speech therapists or a chiropractor when engaging in complementary medicine intervention. Alternative medicine, on the other hand, is the type of intervention that replaces standard healthcare services. Naturopaths, for instance, can work singlehandedly in “correcting” chemical imbalance on an individual-with-autism’s body.

3. Developmental and Behavioral Interventions

These intervention techniques revolve on teaching and coaching. Behavioral therapies are customarily designed to promote appropriate or independent behavior and inhibit unsuitable behavior. Desired behavior is usually broken down into specific tasks taught in a structured manner.
On the other hand, developmental interventions are aimed at a child’s core deficits. Therapists and parents as well as special education teachers work together in engaging a child’s own interest to enhance communication, affection, social interaction, logical reasoning, and so on.

4. Psychotherapy

Psychotherapeutic intervention is a range of treatments with one or more processes that completely allow an individual with autism to fully comprehend his abilities and challenges. Counseling is one form of psychotherapy which can take many forms. It can be just plain “talking” with a therapist his innermost thoughts while others engage in counseling through creative art form like music or dance. Some counseling are done to improve speech/communication, and social interaction.

5. Medications

Widely known as medicines or pharmaceutical drugs, this type of intervention is usually prescribed to cure or treat a medical diagnosis. They are sometimes classified according to their chemical properties, therapeutic effects, mode of administration, and so on. Some medicines are also used nutritional supplements.

6. Biomedical’ Interventions

Biomedical means the application of biological/physiological sciences to clinical medicine. Though this could mean a lot of things to different people, most individuals living with autism know that this refers to a set of interventions designed to stop or reduce biomedical issues that usually trigger or worsen symptoms and issues faced by those living in the spectrum. Though often considered as part of complementary or alternative medicine, this group of intervention is usually more specific. Some examples of biomedical intervention includes the GFCF diet (strict enforcement), use of nutritional supplements and hormones, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, chelation, and so on.

7. Motor/Sensory Interventions

Treatments and therapies falling on this category usually aim to improve movement of body parts (motor skills) and heighten sensitivity to one or more senses(sensory perception) to an individual with autism.

8. Alternative and Augmentative Communication

Communication is one of the most highly affected skills in individuals with autism. Alternative communication is usually a set of therapies used to enhance speech and/or language without using the conventional technique. Augmentative Communication, on the other hand, is designed to enhance and complement standard technique in communication therapies.

9. Assistive and Adaptive Technology

In today’s age of technology, the use of assistive and adaptive technology is nothing new. This type of intervention usually makes use of low-tech, mid-tech or high-tech devices, products, and equipment aimed at maintaining, augmenting or improving functional capabilities of those living with ASD. Low-tech gadgets examples are clipboards, photo albums, dry erase boards, etc. Mid-tech examples are Language Master, calculators, voice output devices, and so on. Typically costly, high-tech gadgets such as computers, videocams, and complex voice output devices are more commonly used today.

10. Service-Based Interventions

This intervention category is broken down into three subcategories namely, educational services, employment services, and social care services. Educational services for individuals on autism are focused on the education and mental development of individuals with autism. Employment services are designed to make people find and keep job suited to their abilities. Social care services, on the other hand, are designed to assess the needs and provide support therewith to individuals in a community. This usually includes, residential care, social groups, and so on.

There are also other interventions that do not fall on any of the categories mentioned. Examples are animal therapies, relationship-based intervention, and the use of politics and PR. Indeed, autism is a complex condition that requires various intervention methods. In all these, however, the earlier the intervention usually means the better the progress.

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10 Must-Have Tech Toys and Stuff for Children with Autism

September 1, 2014 Pamela Bryson-Weaver 3 Comments

Children of all ages, whether on the spectrum or not, love toys. It gives them a sense of fun and entertainment. Parents to children with autism, however, must be aware that their children need toys that stimulate their senses but not so much that it can set them into a tailspin or a meltdown. Children on the spectrum have differing sensitivities to sounds, lights, tastes, odors, and touch. One child may be overly sensitive to loud sounds, while another basks in amazement over flashing of light. Most, if not all, though have experienced sensory overload leaving them out of control—and this is what you as a parent should keep in mind when choosing an educational gadget for your child.

Recommended Interactive Toys and Gadgets

1. Buddy Tag

According to their website, “A lost child is a parent’s worst nightmare,” and we could not agree more. Buddy Tag is one of the highly recommended gadget recommended to parents, especially those to children with autism. This Bluetooth tracker cum wristband warns parents when a child is out of proximity. It has a one-touch panic button that sends instantaneous alert to parents when their children are in danger or when they are facing any threat. There is also an app which runs on various smartphones. Subsequently, Buddy Tag also sends email for the time and location of where your child is last seen making it truly conducive for everyone in this day and age.

2. Little Blueprint

Most children with autism rely on consistent routine to go about their daily activities. Little Blueprint customized or ready-made books are highly recommended for kids with autism and to their parents. Not only will it instill confidence in them, it also enhances their brainpower, sense of security and resilience. Parents are provided with “script” which can be used when telling stories. Having one customized with your child’s pictures and name will definitely go a long way. Perfect for setting a sleeping routine…

3. SensaCalm Weighted Lap Pads and Blankets

Weighted lap pads and blankets are great for children with sensory processing disorder, a common developmental issue to those with autism. These can provide a sense of security to them, and subsequently produce a calming effect. The odd textures on the cloth and the attached fidget toys on weighted lap pads can stimulate their senses making it a great companion when traveling or when outdoors. Like a baby cocooned in a blanket, weighted blankets also add a sense of security and calm for children with autism as they sleep.

4. Watchminder3

Specifically developed for kids with developmental disorder by a child psychologist, WatchMinder3 is quite fashionable, fun, and helpful in teaching kids with autism keep track of time and tasks. It also instills positive behavior and gives them an edge in managing their own time and in developing independent living skills.

5. Multi Voice Changer

Predominantly, children with autism have language or speech problems. This, however, can be stimulated to their advantage. This multi-voice speaker encourages children to speak out and have fun. Whether it be a warbled sound or a grunt or a nonsensical voice, the multi voice speaker can turn this into 10 different voice combinations stimulating their interest to learn more and improve on their speech. This megaphone also has a red flashing LED light to fire up their vision.

6.Sensory Pea Pod

Think of how secure a pea is when inside its pod. For some children, this cocooning effect can deliver the calming effect that seeps into their core. Children with autism are often cranky and hyperactive making them vulnerable to meltdown or temper tantrums. With this inflatable vinyl built for comfort and warmth, a child can get the soothing effect when resting or when doing about their favorite activity.

7. Noise Reduction Earmuffs

Some, if not most, children with Autism Spectrum Disorders have sensitive hearing. They are very receptive to their surroundings thus, can be easily upset when exposed to sounds that are either too loud or too shrilly for them. When undergoing sensory storm, this playful noise-reduction earmuffs can provide great cushion in easing up to 27-decibel noise reduction rating while still allowing children to listen to conversation.

8. Tech4Everyone

Think about having an amped Windows desktop. A favorite among teachers, parents to home-schooled kids, homes for the aged, and other service establishments catering to those with developmental needs, the Tech4Everyone software is a revolutionary breakthrough in early childhood computer education. Children with autism will benefit largely from this software platform as it stimulates language, visual and auditory development. Your child simply clicks on his picture and voila! He is presented with a customized set of computer learning activities catering to his individual needs.

9. SmartEd Pad

This is the answer to parents to children with autism. Designed to engage (not distracted) children to technology, and enable therapy continuity even when at home, the SmartEd Pad is a dedicated therapy-specific device which comes complete with lesson plans and apps configured specially by special educators. This device is known to fully support children with autism at home.
SmartEdPad is a dedicated therapy-specific device, with lesson plans and relevant apps configured by special educators, that parents can easily use to support a student at home..

10. iPads and Android Tablets

With hundreds of available apps specifically created to cater to kids with developmental disorder like Autism, iPads or any Android tablets are truly wise investment. Apps like Brain Parade, Math Board, AutisMate, Proloquo2Go, Choiceworks, Pictello, Word SLaPps, iTubelist, and many more are waiting with just one tap.

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Autism: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

August 30, 2014 Pamela Bryson-Weaver Leave a comment

Most researches strongly suggest that autism is genetic in nature. However, up to this minute, the exact cause of such a wide spectrum of disorders is yet unknown. There is quite a variety of disorders attached to this developmental disorder earning its name—Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Each child with autism usually manifests different sets of symptoms making the diagnosis challenging to doctors, psychologists, and behavioral analysts. However, the following symptoms are some of the basic markers noted among many kids diagnosed with ASD:

inability to socially interact with others
lack, if not rejection, of physical contact and intimacy even with parents and siblings
inability to make direct eye contact with others
lack, if not absence, of verbal skills
has echolalia or make repetitive words and phrases
manifests repetitive motor movements or actions
easily gets preoccupied with something
finds noise insufferable
relies on consistent routines and rituals

Diagnosis Guidelines

These symptoms can sometimes resemble other medical issues, thus, consulting a physician for diagnosis is essential. So, how is ASD diagnosed? As a silent rule, the earlier autism is diagnosed, the more effective the treatment is. A standardized guideline was developed among 11 different organizations and was subsequently published in the journal of the American Academy of Neurology. It clearly states that “all children below the age of 2 years must be routinely screened for autism and other developmental delays”. Furthermore, all children showing developmental delays and/or behavioral disorders must be tested for ASD. First level of diagnosis usually involves testing for:

First Two Years

zero verbal skills by age 18 months
loss of language skills
loss of social skills
no gesturing, babbling or pointing ability by the age of 1
non-echolalic expressions by the age of 2

Pre-schoolers

lack of joint attention (when a person “shares” an experience with another)
lack of affective reciprocity (occurs when a person “shares a moment” with another)
limited imitative ability
limited, if not lack of, pretend play

The second level of autism screening is usually performed when the child is positively identified with developmental delays during the first screening. This in-depth screening is usually done to differentiate autism from other forms of mental, language and anxiety disorders. The second level screening is usually a more formal and profound diagnostic procedure done by a skilled and experienced diagnostician on ASD. This usually involves a complete medical history, neurological evaluation, metabolic and genetic testing, CT Scan, MRI, PET scan and other electrophysiologic tests, psychological evaluation, and many more.

Treatment and Therapy

Autism Spectrum Disorders are known to have no cure. However, these disorders can be managed with a highly specialized behavioral and educational programs designed mainly for ASD. As children with autism has varying needs, each child can have a different set of symptoms, diagnosis, and therefore, treatment like behavioral therapy, behavioral modification, and other special education programs covering social, motor, verbal/language/speech, self-care, and cognitive skills. Some children with ASD require medication while others do not. Specific treatment is usually decided upon the following criteria: a child’s overall health and medical history, symptoms and extent of the disorder, a child’s tolerance to medications and therapies, expectations and opinion/preference of the parent or family member seeking treatment.

Sources:
WebMD
Wikipedia
Mayo Clinic
Wisconsin Children’s Hospital

Uncategorized

Lisa

My kids were so excited seeing their faces in the book and truly, the book is a beautiful honoring of those with autism as well as parents on that journey to support their little ones….

I’ve gotten my son to show it to his Autism school, Pathlight School, the only dedicated-autism school in Singapore and they are interested to get copies of this to either sell or have in their library – am waiting for them to tell me what they intend to do – but so many teachers and the vice-principal has already seen the book and everyone’s so taken in by the book! So honouring you and the gift of your book to the world! Thank you once again for the heart you have for autism and for the little ones you hold dearly.

Will reconnect soon once I hear back from the school on what they would like to do… cheers and divine blessings for you always!

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Kimberly Arsenault

Thank you so much for the advance copy of your book! The book is fabulous, and I highly recommend it! The website is also fabulous, and will continue to be a wonderful resource, I look forward to seeing it continue to grow and evolve!

You are such a wonderful mother and such an inspiration! Keep up the amazing work and know that you are making such a difference in this world! God Bless!

Testimonial

Fr. Jack Dolan

A good book, very insightful! You are a wonderful mother to John and I have seen first-hand what a blessing you are in his life.

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There is no doubt that early intervention can best deliver progress and results to children living in the shadows of Autism Spectrum Disorders and other developmental disorders. Autism Spectrum Disorders, or ASD, have a variety of treatments and therapies duly called “intervention” by experts.

Recommended for you:

Recommended for you:

Most researches strongly suggest that autism is genetic in nature. However, up to this minute, the exact cause of such a wide spectrum of disorders is yet unknown. There is quite a variety of disorders attached to this developmental disorder earning its name—Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Recommended for you: