April is Autism Awareness Month and so this newsletter will be all about autism – the resources to help children with autism thrive and reach their goals as well as resources for adults (family, schools and health practitioners) to better understand more about autism.
Please read and share with your network so that we can all play our part in making our society an inclusive one for all children!
What is Autism?
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition of variable severity with lifelong effects that can be recognized from early childhood, chiefly characterized by difficulties with social interaction and communication and by restricted or repetitive patterns of thought and behaviour.
It is a spectrum so differs from individual to individual.
Autism is not a death sentence. With the right interventions and love, a child living will autism can achieve so much.
Here are just some resources to help with this!
1.Ear Defenders
Some children with autism are very sensitive to loud noises. Ear defenders can help block out those sounds and increase focus.
2. Weighted Caterpillar
The weighted caterpillar is a great sensory resource for children with autism.
It enhances proprioception and vestibular senses whilst aiding in achieving a sense of calmness.
3. I would like to say … Fan
Children with autism can overcome communication challenges with the help of aids like the “I want to say … fan”
Children can point to the relevant fan to communicate their wants and needs.
4. Therapressure Brush
The Therapressure Brush was designed to implement the Wilbarger Brushing Protocol – a protocol involving calming brushing sensory activities.
5. Z-vibe
The Z-vibe is an oral motor therapy tool that can be used to wake up or desensitize muscles in the mouth – yes the muscles that help with speech, eating, drinking and so on.
6. Toileting Fan
A lot of children with autism learn visually – from what they see.
A great way of introducing new routines to them is by showing a visual representation of that routine – step by step for them to follow and master.
7. Sensory Fidget Tubes
Looking for a gift for a child with autism?
This set of 4 Sensory Fidget Tubes is a great choice.
The tubes contain colourful motions that will mesmerize and calm children as well as adults.
8. The Autism Language Launcher
The Autism Language Launcher helps parents/caregivers/health professionals children on the spectrum build speech from one word or two word phrases to conversations.
9. The Reason I Jump
If you have ever wondered what a person with autism is thinking, the global bestselling book “The Reason I Jump” is a must read.
Written by Naoki Higashida who was diagnosed with severe autism when he was 13 years old, this book provides a bridge between the autistic and neuro-typical experience.
These are just some resources to help children with autism reach their fullest potential.