For Parents

Many families value having their children help out around the house. This could be for a variety of different reasons. Families may want to teach their children the process of earning money. They may want to teach older children basic household care skills. Doing the dishes, helping prepare meals, and folding laundry are all lifelong skills. Families may also need help from all household members to keep up with housework.

Here are some practical tips on how to create positive chore routines for your child with autism:

Decide on Your Goals

First, decide why you are involving your child in chores. Some possible reasons are listed in the paragraph above. This will help you determine how to structure the chore schedule. For example, you may be teaching your child how to do chores so they can become familiar with the process of earning money. In this case, you will need to set up a clear method of giving instructions on the chores to be done. You will need to show your child what they will earn before they do the chore. This is probably best accomplished with a visual schedule or chore chart. Then, when the chore is completed, you will need to give them what they earned. You also might need to help them organize their earnings, and decide what to do with them. Of course, if they don’t complete the chore, they will not earn the money.

But, many families do not attach monetary allowances to successful completion of chores. Rather, chores are taught as part of overall life skills in the home. Or, they may be taught as part of developing empathy and helper skills. In this case, you might not need a structured chore schedule. Instead, you might teach your child to show willingness when asked to help out. Or, they could choose from a couple of different chore routines you offer them. That way, they have control over what household routines they take part in that day.

Start Small

It is important not to overwhelm your child with autism with a task they don’t know how to do. Chore routines should start small. This could be as minor as putting one block inside a box. Or, they might hand you their cup when they are done with it instead of throwing it. Teaching these small skills to take care of the home environment can lead to more complex and independent chore routines. 

Teach, Teach, Teach

When you are assigning your child a new chore, you will need to teach them how to do it first. You might need to have your child watch you do the chore several times before they can attempt part of it themselves. They will also need prompting with most chores for a long time before they can do them alone. This includes cleaning up spaces like their own rooms and other play areas.

Give Feedback

Your child will need a lot of behavior specific feedback when they are doing chores. This is true even after they have learned how to do a chore by themselves. Look for ways you can deliver specific positive feedback. This will help your child establish a sense of pride about work they complete. You can also praise them for doing things like “helping your brother do ______.” Emphasize helping behaviors in your praise. This encourages more helping behavior in the future. 

Make Big Things Small

Large, multi-step chores will always be overwhelming. Try to help your child learn how to make big things small. For example, time how long it takes them to put away ten things in their room. Then, see if they can beat their time for the next ten things. This helps a big project like cleaning an entire room be easier. It also helps your child manage potential overwhelmed or frustrated emotions.

Courtney Gutierrez, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA

Courtney Gutierrez, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA Courtney is a behavior analyst, educator, and writer in the Pacific Northwest. She has over fifteen years of experience in the field of autism services, and over ten years of master’s level experience in classroom teaching and ABA therapy. Her areas of expertise include infant and toddler development, parent coaching, ABA clinical leadership and training, P-12 special education, and case consultation for children and young adults with autism and other special needs. Courtney lives in Seattle with her husband and two children.

Got bored kids at home?  Keep them busy with items from around your house!

Is your sensory seeking kid getting bored with things from around the house? They always turn to mom or dad for ideas.  Give them something new to try instead of suggesting the same old games and toys.

No need to go shopping either!  Prep these easy to make activities ahead of time and pull them out next time your child says, “Mom I’m bored!”

Homemade Sensory Bin

For this activity, all you need is a plastic bin and sensory type trinkets.  Put the stuff in the bin and you’re all set!  Here are things you can use for the homemade sensory bin:

• Uncooked rice
• Uncooked pasta or noodles
• Buttons
• Shredded paper
• Scraps of cloth

Add some plastic cups, bowls, and spoons for your child to scoop and pour.  Turn it into pretend play with little cars, action figures or animals.

Shaving Cream

Some kids prefer squishy textures.  Shaving cream is perfect for that.  For this activity, all you need is a cookie sheet, plastic mat or even a window and non-gel shaving cream!

Practice writing numbers, letters, or draw pictures with fingers.  Turn it into a car or animal wash by letting the toys run through the shaving cream.  Scrub with toothbrushes.  Rinse off in a bowl of water.

Bubble Monster

Put a new spin on blowing bubbles!  For this activity, all you need is:

• Sock
• Tube
• Sudsy dish soap water.

Simply put the sock over the end of the tube and dip into the sudsy water.  Blow into the other end of the tube and watch the bubble monster form!

Box Reading Cubby

Have a large box from Amazon?  Turn it into a cozy reading cubby or nook!  Let your child decorate the outside however they wish with markers or stickers.  Cut out windows or simply leave one end open.  

Put in some soft blankets and pillows and your child has quiet spot to read, rest or take a break.

Tin Can Stilts

Looking for a fun way to walk around?  Make your own stilts!  For this activity, all you need is:

• 2 large tin cans
• Sturdy rope, twine or jump rope.

To make the stilts simply turn the can over so the bottom is facing up.  Punch two holes across from each other on the sides near the rim.  Run the rope through the holes. 

To walk on the stilts all your child needs to do is place their feet on the bottom of the cans and hold the ropes in each hand a start walking!

Balance Beam

Have some 2×4 planks of wood?  Turn them into a balance beam.  Place 1 long piece of wood on the floor.  Nail or glue a shorter piece of wood at either end of the long beam to make a T at each end.  Turn it over and you have a balance beam!

Floor Maze

Make a life-size maze for your kids to walk through!  For this activity, all you need is masking tape or blue painters tape. Tape out a maze design and that’s it! 

You can also make an indoor hopscotch game out of tape.

Human Burrito or Pizza

For the kid who loves deep pressure, this one is for them.  Layout a blanket out on the floor along with some pillows.  Have your child lay in the middle of the blanket.  Take their food order (cheese, meat, veggies) and squish a pillow on them for each ingredient.  

Next, wrap your child up with the pillow in the blanket and let the burrito or pizza bake.  Apply deep pressure up and down as the food bakes.

Try out one of these 8 easy to make sensory activities next time your kid looks bored!  They will enjoy the new ideas as they work on self-regulation and you won’t have to spend a dime!

Elizabeth Purpero

Elizabeth Purpero is a licensed school counselor and licensed professional counselor-in-training.  She has her master’s in counseling psychology.  Elizabeth has worked as an autism therapist with children and teens.  During her career, she has worked in intensive at-home therapy programs utilizing ABA and play therapy along with OT and speech therapy techniques.  She has also worked as a mental health therapist helping clients address their mental health issues as it relates to autism.  Elizabeth’s background working with the autism community has greatly helped her work with students in schools too.  She has helped teachers implement effective strategies, create goals for IEP’s and make classrooms more sensory-friendly.  Mark Twain once said, “Write what you know about,” and Elizabeth enjoys writing about autism-related topics and providing additional resources to help those impacted by autism.

Language is a critical part of childhood development. Language enables communication and social relationships. Language can be a difficult skill for children with autism. They might struggle with increasing their vocabulary. They might struggle with stringing multiple words together, like in the phrases “want help” or “go bye bye.” They might struggle with using language to communicate with others.

As a parent, there are a lot of things you can do to encourage language development at home. At first, this may seem overwhelming. After all, speech is one skill that is impossible to prompt. But think about language as a broader skill than simply the words that are said. Language is a way of understanding information and concepts. It is a way of expressing information and concepts. It is a way to relate. These are all skills you are probably already doing at home all the time without even thinking about it.

Here are five ways to encourage language development at home:

1. Repetition

Children with autism are often known for their love of repetition. This could be with words, routines, stories, games, or actions. But the truth is that all children respond positively to repetition. Repetition is an important way that children learn new skills.

You can use repetition to encourage language development. Repeat the words your child says. Expand on those words by using them in sentences. Repeat favorite activities, songs, and stories as much as your child wants. This may seem tedious to you. But it is helping your child understand the connections between language and the world around them. You can also use repeated activities to encourage use of language to request. For example, your child may love it when you sing The Itsy Bitsy Spider over and over again. Gradually teach them to request “more” or “again” each time you do the song.

2. Word Games

Word games are a fun and easy way to encourage new words at home. Word games can be adjusted to suit your child’s developmental level. A very simple word game is to get out an assortment of blocks with letters and objects on the sides. Lift the blocks up to your chin one by one and ask your child what the object is. Demonstrate saying the word for them. Give them the block and stack it.

A more complex word game is for children who have some familiarity with letters or numbers. Take turns going around the house and finding objects that start with each letter. Or find objects that can be found in groups of one, two, three, and so on. 

3. Gestures and Sound Effects

One way to make language more fun is to pair words with gestures and sound effects. For example, a child may learn to say “moo moo” for a cow before they learn to say the word “cow.” Common gestures to pair with language include pointing, nodding and shaking head, and basic signs like “more” and “all done.” You can get as creative as you like by using other signs and motions. A great way to find ideas for gestures and motions to pair with language are websites with videos like Cosmic Kids Yoga.

4. Books

When in doubt, read a book. It can be hard to brainstorm ways to encourage language once your child has tired of all your typical routines. Revisit books that may not have been motivating for your child a month ago. Point out and label images on the pages as you read. Introduce new book series by checking one out from the library first.

5. Close Enough is Really Close Enough

When your child tries to copy a word that you said, praise them even if it sounded garbled. They may say something that doesn’t sound like the word at all. If you know or can guess the meaning, go with it! Accept the effort as the real deal. This will help build your child’s motivation to use language.

Courtney Gutierrez, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA

Courtney Gutierrez, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA Courtney is a behavior analyst, educator, and writer in the Pacific Northwest. She has over fifteen years of experience in the field of autism services, and over ten years of master’s level experience in classroom teaching and ABA therapy. Her areas of expertise include infant and toddler development, parent coaching, ABA clinical leadership and training, P-12 special education, and case consultation for children and young adults with autism and other special needs. Courtney lives in Seattle with her husband and two children.

If your child or loved one has autism it’s easy to focus on the negative things.  Extra challenges. Special education. Sensory issues. Social delays.

It’s good to know about the issues your kid has and how to help them.  At the same time only doing that gives you tunnel vision. You only see the bad side of autism.  And these challenges really aren’t bad.  

Have you ever taken time to focus on the positive traits of autism?  You probably see many gifts in your child. The cool thing with autism is that some of these gifts are only unique to ASD and most other people don’t have them!

Let’s take a moment to look at the bright side of autism and how these gifts can be used in everyday life.  Here are the top 10 positive traits of autism!

Great Attention To Detail

It’s amazing the things kids with autism notice that we usually overlook.  Patterns on the floor. The way sunlight reflects a rainbow. They take in information through detail!  

Kids with this trait makes them correct and precise!  There are many opportunities to apply this gift in life.  Attention to detail helps people be good musicians, artists, cooks and computer programers!  There are a lot more ways kids can use attention to detail for good.

Analytical

Kids who are analytical are good at noticing patterns and repetition.  They are very patient as they analyze information and detail.

Using this methodical approach helps children grow to be excellent researchers, mathematicians and problem solvers!

Innovative

Thinking outside the box is a great trait for kids with autism.  It gives them a unique thought process to everyday problems. It brings creativity to many solutions.

Being innovative helps others see that there is more than one way to get things done.  

Focused Observation

Because kids pay attention to detail they are obviously focused.  They have the ability to concentrate and drown out distractions. They are great at finding facts.

Children with this trait can be excellent students.  They also become great experts in their areas of high interest! 

Creative

Kids with autism have great imaginations!  They come up with the best ideas when it comes to pretend play and expressing themselves.  Children often crave creative outlets.

The creative trait helps kids be excellent artists and crafters. They also are skilled in drama and acting.

Determination

Determined kids don’t give-up and that’s a good thing!  When faced with obstacles children with autism keep working hard to get over the challenges.  The fact that kids on the spectrum have more difficulties than others they have greater success at beating the odds!

Not giving up is an excellent trait to have when it comes to playing sports.  Losing can be hard, but with a lot of practice you can get better and better!

Easily Accepts Others

Where some people notice differences and make judgements, kids with autism don’t always pick up on those things.  This in-turn helps them accept differences.

This trait is helpful to have when making friends.  Kids are loyal to their friends and don’t care if someone is not a certain way.  It helps others feel welcome and appreciated.

Honesty

Kids with autism aren’t afraid to tell you what they think.  They can be bold and frank with their comments. This is a form of honesty!  Honest children don’t worry about the consequences for telling the truth, they just do it.

People can always gain something from honesty.  Honest kids gain trust and respect from others.

Experts

With great focus and attention detail comes the ability to gain knowledge.  Kids with autism are excellent studiers and become experts in many topics. They are always eager to share their findings with others too.

An expert kid is a great trait to have when it comes to school and work.  People can take pride in knowing how to do their job well and being a great student.  Kids with this trait will be sought after because they know so many facts!

Lives In The Moment

Kids with autism often don’t worry about tomorrow or dwell on the past.  This is a very freeing trait to have! Living in the moment offers great opportunities to enjoy things as they are as they happen.  Many people strive to live in the moment, but kids with this trait don’t have to.

Every child with autism is unique.  Some have one of these traits. Some have all.  Most have several.  

What do you see in your child?  When you focus on their positive traits and how they can use them it makes having autism special.

These top 10 positive traits of autism will help you focus on the gifts and talents of your child and see their potential!

Elizabeth Purpero

Elizabeth Purpero is a licensed school counselor and licensed professional counselor-in-training.  She has her master’s in counseling psychology.  Elizabeth has worked as an autism therapist with children and teens.  During her career, she has worked in intensive at-home therapy programs utilizing ABA and play therapy along with OT and speech therapy techniques.  She has also worked as a mental health therapist helping clients address their mental health issues as it relates to autism.  Elizabeth’s background working with the autism community has greatly helped her work with students in schools too.  She has helped teachers implement effective strategies, create goals for IEP’s and make classrooms more sensory-friendly.  Mark Twain once said, “Write what you know about,” and Elizabeth enjoys writing about autism-related topics and providing additional resources to help those impacted by autism.

Telehealth can be overwhelming for many families. The technology may feel confusing. The process might not make sense to you. You might wonder how Telehealth could possibly meet your needs. Many families worry that if they can’t see their therapist face to face, therapy won’t be as effective. They also worry the process will not be motivating enough for their child with autism.

The good news is that Telehealth is becoming more common in healthcare overall. This is also trickling down to the world of ABA.

Here is a quick guide on how to participate in Telehealth.

Understand Funding

The first step to participating in Telehealth ABA is understanding how it will be funded. If you pay for services privately, this should not be an issue. However, you will want to check with your provider to make sure. If your services are funded through insurance, different rules will apply. Most insurance companies have a separate Telehealth policy. This is different from their standard policy for in-person services. Also, Telehealth is rapidly developing in the healthcare field. This means that insurance company policies are likely to keep changing. Make sure you work with your provider to understand what your insurance will cover.

Set Up Technology

To participate in Telehealth, you will need the necessary technology present in your home. This usually includes a computer and a reliable internet connection. It’s best if your computer is portable, so that it can be placed in the therapy location. Additionally, you may need to move the computer throughout the session. The computer is how you and your child will see and talk to your therapist.

Your provider will also set up technology on their end. They will use a HIPAA compliant program for Telehealth to ensure your privacy is protected. They will also ask you to sign additional consent forms specific to Telehealth. Your provider will initiate the video call with you, usually through your email. When you accept the invitation, it may prompt you to download a new program to your computer.

Be Flexible

For your first session, you should keep your expectations low. You should expect that Telehealth will feel awkward until you and your provider settle into a routine. Try to keep a lighthearted attitude about the start of Telehealth. Remember that it takes time to learn new systems and routines. This is true not only for your child with autism, but also for you and your therapist!

Here are some tips to help you get over the rocky process of starting Telehealth:

1. It’s OK to multitask, but try to minimize distractions. You might need to make one of your other children a snack during a session. Let your provider know what’s happening. They will understand. At the same time, try to minimize distractions. Turn off music and the TV. Put out a few toys or activities that will be used during the session. Put everything else aside or away.

2. Downtime is OK. Sometimes, the provider may observe you and your child without speaking. You may be playing with your child or helping them do a task the provider has assigned. Lulls in conversation are to be expected. This allows your provider to review what’s been covered so far. These lulls usually pass naturally within a few minutes.

3. Follow your child’s lead. Your child may go into another room or ask for a new toy. Communicate what is happening to your provider. Bring the computer with you. Or, if you are changing a diaper, let your provider know you’ll be right back.

4. Follow your therapist’s lead. Your therapist may ask you to try something with your child. They may ask you to give an instruction or start a new game. Follow their lead and give them feedback on how it went. This will help them make necessary program updates.

Telehealth can be stressful at first, but it doesn’t have to be scary! Now, you have some tools to approach it as a new experience. This new experience can be fun and meaningful for you and your child!

Courtney Gutierrez, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA

Courtney Gutierrez, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA Courtney is a behavior analyst, educator, and writer in the Pacific Northwest. She has over fifteen years of experience in the field of autism services, and over ten years of master’s level experience in classroom teaching and ABA therapy. Her areas of expertise include infant and toddler development, parent coaching, ABA clinical leadership and training, P-12 special education, and case consultation for children and young adults with autism and other special needs. Courtney lives in Seattle with her husband and two children.

Travel plans sidelined?  What now?

There are many benefits to staying home for vacation.  You can control your environment, which is important if you have a child with special needs.  You get to decide what to do while staying in the comfort of your own home. You save money. Don’t have to deal with crowded airports.   

So you see the plus side of a staycation.  Still not sure how to fill your days? You can turn your staycation into a vacation!  Here are five staycation ideas you need to try!

Theme Days

Pick a theme for each day of the week and do activities around that theme.  Here are some ideas:

• Beach Day:  Wear beach gear, play with kinetic sand, set up a kiddie pool indoors, watch a beach themed movie
• Fiesta Day:  Have a pinata, taco party, salsa dance party
• Pirate Day: Scavenger hunt for gold coins, decorate eye patches, dress up like pirates, 
• Science Museum Day:  Go on a virtual science museum tour, checkout Pinterest for science experiments, make your own slime or oobleck

Movie Day

Brighten up a rainy day with a movie marathon!  Here is a way to make the day fun:

• Make an at-home “movie theater” with chairs or pillows and turn off lights
• Serve popcorn, candy and soda 

A Day At The Park

Turn your backyard into a park!  Here are some ideas to make backyard play more exciting:

• If you have a play structure turn it into a ninja course or set up an obstacle course and have races.
• Play backyard games like bean bag toss, relay races, or ladder golf
• If it’s nice out set up a splash pad with kiddie pool, sprinklers and hoses

Olympic Day

Set up a day of sporting activities:

• Go for a bike ride
• Basketball shooting contest
• Soccer shoot out–shoot goals into a net
• Play a game of catch or home run derby

Camping

Turn your yard into a camping excursion!  

• Pitch a tent
• Build a campfire in a fire ring–roast marshmallows and hotdogs
• Go to a park with hiking trails and take in a hike

Staying home for vacation can be just as fun and relaxing. Try these five staycation ideas and you will feel like you’re traveling the world!

Elizabeth Purpero

Elizabeth Purpero is a licensed school counselor and licensed professional counselor-in-training.  She has her master’s in counseling psychology.  Elizabeth has worked as an autism therapist with children and teens.  During her career, she has worked in intensive at-home therapy programs utilizing ABA and play therapy along with OT and speech therapy techniques.  She has also worked as a mental health therapist helping clients address their mental health issues as it relates to autism.  Elizabeth’s background working with the autism community has greatly helped her work with students in schools too.  She has helped teachers implement effective strategies, create goals for IEP’s and make classrooms more sensory-friendly.  Mark Twain once said, “Write what you know about,” and Elizabeth enjoys writing about autism-related topics and providing additional resources to help those impacted by autism.