Summer is near, which means school is almost out! If you have a child affected by Autism, the summer months may mark a time of increased stress on your child, as well as on yourself. Here are 5 tips to help this summer be easy, breezy and relaxing for you and your child.
Especially Needed provides resources and fun events to individuals with special needs and their families in the North Texas area. This non-profit is hosting it’s 5th Annual Fall Carnival and Resource Fair on October 25th, 5pm to 8pm.
ASL interpretation performance June 29, 2014 – 4:30 pm
Sensory Friendly Performance on July 12th
This summer, join Dallas Children’s Theater on a big adventure with Stuart Little playing in the Baker Theater at the Rosewood Center for Family Arts from June 13 through July 13.
by Michael J. Cameron, PhD, BCBA-D
When a child with autism spectrum disorder enters a doctor’s office, are they being treated with the same care and attention as a child not on the spectrum?
In many cases, they experience a ghastly, no good wretched day. It can be frustrating for families to spend the time and energy to get medical help for an ongoing issue, like gastrointestinal problems, only to be told “it’s just behavioral and we can’t help.”
by Mina Frannea
Four years ago, a mom with a special needs child decided she wanted to help other families like hers so she created Especially Needed, an organization based on a vision that a community can exist where individuals with special needs are valued, respected and included. A community made up of caring people who serve as a support system as well as mentors to children and adults.
On Saturday, April 19th from 1-3pm, Especially Needed is hosting their 4th annual Easter Event and Resource Fair for individuals with special needs and their families. All participants will have an opportunity to hunt eggs at their own pace so register for a time slot at www.especiallyneeded.org. There will also be special egg hunts for those that require wheelchair assistance. Other activities include bounce house, pics with the Easter Bunny, games and more.
by Michael J. Cameron, PhD, BCBA-D
When it comes to learning new skills, autistic children need more opportunities to learn and engage. One of the best ways to do that is by involving other important people in the child’s life – parents, grandparents, siblings and other caregivers – and incorporating their skills and interests into the natural rhythms of a child’s day. With a “strength-based approach,” meaning the practice or strategy in identifying and drawing upon the strength and interests of an individual, their family, and community to achieve engagement and results as a partner, families can achieve an established goal set out for a child with autism.
