Autistic Children Can Benefit from Interacting with People in Their Lives

Using Everyday Activities to Teach Skills to an Autistic Child

Engaging the Community of Autistic Children: The Why, Who and How

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.

Sense-Able Gym, an open play concept

Sense-Able Gym: Open, Sensory Driven Play Space

 

Sense-Able Gym is designed much like a children’s therapy center, but with an open play concept. We offer a fun, sensory driven play space designed for children with special needs, but open to all children.

Our mission is to build confidence, motivation, problem-solving skills, and socialization through a variety of activities personalized to fit your child’s needs. Each child is seen as the spectacular individual they already are, and natural strengths are identified and built upon.

Home Modifications for Families with Disabled Child

Wheelchair ramp at home

Adaptive home modifications for homes with disabled child

Whether a child is born with a disability or it develops later in life, there are many family decisions to make when it comes to modifications and adaptive designs that can be essential in allowing disabled children to live in their own homes with as much independence as possible. Keeping your disabled child at home and safe is important to you, and modifying your home to make that happen is the perfect compromise.

Home modifications span across a wide range, from allowing for a child in a wheelchair to navigate the home easily or making room for someone who has hearing or vision impairments. Instances can be temporary (recovery from a broken bone) or longer term in nature. Regardless, homes should provide children – and parents – with a strong sense of security. Without proper safety measures, homes can become hazardous to those with disabilities or physical impairments.