Autism and Family Lab

📚Back to School Tips and Resources✏️

Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through Social Stories during the Transition to School: Helpful Tips

Social Stories are a beneficial tool for supporting students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) during the transition back to school. These short narratives provide individuals with ASD with information about social situations, expectations, and appropriate behaviors. Here's a guide on how to create and utilize Social Stories to assist students with ASD during the school re-entry process:

1. Identify the specific areas of concern: Begin by pinpointing the aspects of the school transition that may be challenging for the student. These could include changes in routine, new classrooms, social interactions, sensory stimuli, or any other factors that might cause anxiety or distress.

2. Develop a clear and concise narrative: Write a Social Story that describes the situation or scenario in a simple and understandable manner. Use clear language, short sentences, and concrete examples. Focus on conveying accurate information and highlighting expectations and appropriate behaviors.

3. Use pictures or visual supports: Visual aids can enhance understanding and engagement for students with ASD. Include relevant images, symbols, or drawings that illustrate the content of the story. These visuals can help clarify the information and make it more accessible to the student.

4. Address emotions and potential challenges: Acknowledge and validate the student's feelings about returning to school. Identify potential challenges they may encounter and provide strategies or coping mechanisms to manage those challenges effectively. Emphasize positive outcomes and successful experiences.

5. Collaborate with the student and their support network: Involve the student, parents, caregivers, teachers, and therapists in the creation and implementation of the Social Story. Gather input from all stakeholders to ensure the story accurately reflects the student's needs and abilities.

6. Read and review the Social Story regularly: Read the Social Story frequently with the student, preferably both at home and in the school setting. Consistent exposure helps familiarize the student with the upcoming changes and reinforces understanding. Encourage the student to ask questions and provide clarifications when needed.

7. Practice and generalize the skills: Provide opportunities for the student to practice the skills and behaviors discussed in the Social Story. Role-playing, modeling, and real-life experiences can help the student transfer the information from the story to actual situations.

8. Monitor progress and make adjustments: Continuously assess the effectiveness of the Social Story and make necessary adjustments based on the student's response. Be flexible and adapt the story as the student's needs evolve throughout the transition process.

Remember that Social Stories are just one tool among many that can support students with ASD during school transitions. It's essential to create a supportive and inclusive environment, provide individualized accommodations, and collaborate closely with the student's support network to ensure a successful transition back to school.

For more information visit:https://ncse.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Social-Stories-Supporting-students-with-ASD-transition-back-to-school.pdf

Happy Monday Friends: The school year is just around the corner, so we are back with some of our favorite tips and resources:

Lesson Plan: Preparing for a Smooth Back-to-School Transition

Objective: To provide tips and resources for the Autism and Family Lab Community to ensure a smooth back-to-school transition for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Weekday Schedule:

Monday:
1. Creating a structured routine: Establish a predictable daily routine by setting specific times for waking up, getting ready, breakfast, school activities, homework, and bedtime. For example, establish a visual schedule that outlines each activity with corresponding pictures or symbols.

Tuesday:
2. Social stories: Develop social stories that describe various school scenarios and expectations. For instance, create a social story that explains the process of going to school, including entering the classroom, hanging up coats, and joining morning circle time.

Wednesday:
3. Visiting the school: Arrange a visit to the school before the academic year starts. During the visit, explore key areas such as the classroom, playground, cafeteria, and restrooms. Familiarize the child with the layout and introduce them to important staff members, such as the principal and teacher.

Thursday:
4. Communication with teachers and staff: Establish open lines of communication with the child's teachers and school staff. Share information about the child's strengths, challenges, and any strategies that have been successful in the past. Collaborate on an effective communication plan, such as a daily communication notebook or email updates.

Friday:
5. Transition plan: Collaborate with the school to develop an individualized transition plan. This plan should outline specific strategies and supports to ensure a smooth transition. Examples may include gradual integration into the school routine, buddy systems with peer mentors, or additional support from a paraprofessional during challenging times of the day.

🌟 Hey Autism and Family Lab Community! 🌟

"Preparing for a Smooth Back-to-School Transition: Tips and Resources from the Autism and Family Lab Community"

It's time for another exciting week for us as we bring tips for transitioning back to school. We understand that this can be a challenging time for families, and we're here to support you every step of the way!

Starting Monday, we will be sharing valuable insights and strategies from our team of experienced parent interventionists, including essential advocacy skills. We believe that advocating for your child's needs is crucial, and we want to empower you with the knowledge and tools to effectively navigate the educational system.

Our incredible parent interventionists will provide guidance on how to effectively communicate with school personnel, collaborate on individualized education plans (IEPs), and ensure that your child's unique needs are met. We'll also share articles and resources that highlight successful advocacy stories and provide practical tips for advocating for your child's rights.

But that's not all! We'll also be sharing articles and resources from trusted sources online. Whether it's tips for managing sensory overload or strategies to promote social interactions, we want to provide you with a comprehensive toolkit to ensure a smooth and less stressful transition from summer back to school.

So mark your calendars, set your reminders, and make sure to join us throughout the week as we embark on this journey together. Let's empower one another, strengthen our advocacy skills, and make this school year a successful one for our amazing children.

Remember, you're not alone. The Autism and Family Lab Community is here for you, every step of the way. Together, we can make a difference!

❓What’s Happening❓

🌟July Autism Friendly Events: Stay Connected! 🌟

🌟Attention all caregivers if you missed the last six weeks, have no fear because WE’RE BACK 🌟

⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️

The Autism and Family Lab would like to extend an invitation for caregivers to join our Virtual Autism Parent Support Group. 🧩🤝

🗓️ Thursdays, June 20th- Aug 1st, 2024
⏰ 6:15-7:30 P.M.
💻 Virtual
📱 To register contact Carissa Stevens
(Carissa Williams) at 803-200-2689
or visit
💻 https://www.asdfamresearch.com/
supportgroup

We're excited to have you join our caring and supportive community! 🌟🤝

Sharing for our friends over at The Arc of South Carolina

Download our free resources on Decision-Making & Guardianship!
arcsc.org/supported-decision-making

🔍📊 Research Study- Parents of Autistic Adults 🧩👨‍👩‍👦

Are you:
👴 65 or older?
🧩 Parenting an autistic adult?

Join our research study to help advance understanding of the unique journey of parenting adult children with autism. Your insights are invaluable!

By participating in a 45-90 minute interview, you'll shed light on the challenges, rewards, resources, and unmet needs faced by parents as they navigate later life with their autistic adult children.

Interested? See attached flyer for more information and to participate! 📩 🌈🧡

🌟Attention all caregivers after a break for the Fourth of July holiday WE’RE BACK TOMORROW🌟

⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️

The Autism and Family Lab would like to extend an invitation for caregivers to join our Virtual Autism Parent Support Group. 🧩🤝

🗓️ Thursdays, June 20th- Aug 1st, 2024
⏰ 6:15-7:30 P.M.
💻 Virtual
📱 To register contact Carissa Stevens
(Carissa Williams) at 803-200-2689
or visit
💻 https://www.asdfamresearch.com/
supportgroup

We're excited to have you join our caring and supportive community! 🌟🤝

📚✨ Back-to-School Tips for Children with Autism ✨📚

Hey everyone! As we gear up for the new school year, we wanted to share some helpful tips for parents of children with autism to ensure a smooth transition back to the classroom. Here are some strategies to make this school year a successful one:

1️⃣ Establish a Routine: Consistency is key for children with autism. Create a visual schedule to help your child understand what to expect each day.

2️⃣ Communication is Key: Work with your child's teachers to develop a communication plan that suits your child's needs. This could include a communication notebook or a daily check-in system.

3️⃣ Sensory Support: Provide your child with sensory tools or accommodations that can help them regulate their sensory needs in the classroom.

4️⃣ Social Stories: Use social stories to help your child understand social situations and expectations at school.

5️⃣ Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate small victories and use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior and achievements.

6️⃣ Stay Connected: Keep open lines of communication with your child's teachers and support staff. Collaboration is key to your child's success.

Remember, every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Feel free to share your own tips and tricks in the comments below!

Let's make this school year a great one for our amazing kids! 🌟💙

📣🌍 Understanding Advocacy in the Context of Autism 🧩💙

Advocacy is a powerful tool used to promote or defend the rights and interests of individuals or groups. In the context of autism, it plays a significant role in ensuring that those on the spectrum receive the understanding, support, and opportunities they deserve.

Learn More About Advocacy at: https://cedwvu.org/resources/types-of-advocacy/ #:~:text=There%20are%20three%20types%20of,individual%20advocacy%20and%20systems%20advocacy.

🇺🇸 From Our Family to Yours, Happy Independence Day! 🎉

We hope you're enjoying a day filled with joy, laughter, and celebration with family and friends.

We also wanted to inform you that the Autism and Family Lab will be closed on July 4, 2024, in observance of today. 🚀

Have a safe and memorable Fourth of July! 🎇🎈

🌟🌈 July is Disability Pride Month! 🌈🌟

Let's come together to celebrate the diversity, strength, and resilience of people with disabilities. This month, we honor the unique abilities and talents that each individual brings to our communities.

Let's raise awareness, promote inclusivity, and advocate for a more accessible and equitable world for all. Together, we can break down barriers and create a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive and be valued for who they are.

Join us in celebrating Disability Pride Month!

ASD Education: Co-morbid or Co-existing Conditions of Autism - Sensory Processing Disorder

🌟 Hello everyone,

Welcome to today's ASD Education topic! We are diving into the world of co-morbid or co-existing conditions of autism, focusing specifically on Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD).

🧩 Many individuals on the autism spectrum experience sensory processing challenges, which can greatly impact their daily lives. Sensory Processing Disorder refers to difficulties in processing and responding to sensory information from the environment. It affects how our brains perceive and interpret sensory input, such as touch, taste, smell, sound, and sight.

🔍 Throughout the day, we will explore the various aspects of Sensory Processing Disorder and its relationship with autism. We will discuss the signs and symptoms of SPD, how it can affect individuals with autism, and strategies to support those with sensory processing challenges.

🙌 Our goal is to raise awareness, provide insights, and foster a better understanding of this often-overlooked aspect of autism. By sharing knowledge and learning together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with autism and sensory processing difficulties.

📚 So, stay tuned for our upcoming posts! Feel free to ask questions, share your experiences, and join the conversation. Let's work together to promote understanding and acceptance for individuals on the autism spectrum.



🌟🌟🌟

https://childmind.org/article/sensory-processing-issues-explained/

https://www.asdfamresearch.com/

Wishing one of our Graduate Research Assistants, Recaida Forson a very Happy Birthday!

We hope you Enjoy your day!

3. Other Characteristics

It's important to note that individuals with autism spectrum disorder can experience a wide range of symptoms and severity, and not all individuals will exhibit all of the above characteristics. Additionally, some symptoms may become less noticeable over time with appropriate interventions and support.

*Delayed language skills
*Delayed movement skills
*Delayed cognitive or learning skills
*Hyperactive, impulsive, and/or inattentive behavior
*Unusual eating and sleeping habits
*Unusual mood or emotional reactions
*Anxiety, stress, or excessive worry
*Lack of fear or more fear than expected

Source: Sign and Symptoms: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/signs.html
www.asdfamresearch.com

2. Restrictive or Repetitive Behaviors of Interest

Children with autism may engage in repetitive behaviors such as rocking, spinning, or repeating words or phrases. They may also have intense interests in specific topics or objects and may become upset if their routines are disrupted.

*Lines up toys or other objects and gets upset when order is changed
*Repeats words or phrases over and over
*Plays with toys the same way every time
*Is focused on specific parts of objects
*Gets upset by minor changes
*Has obsessive interests
*Must follow certain routines
*Flaps hands, rocks body, or spins self in circles
*Has unusual reactions to the senses

Children with autism may have sensory sensitivities, such as being overly sensitive to sounds, textures, or smells. They may also have difficulty with transitions, changes in routine, or unexpected events.

Source: Signs and Symptoms: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/signs.html
www.asdfamresearch.com

1. Social Communication and Interaction Skills

Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. The symptoms of autism can range from mild to severe and can be identified in early childhood.

The signs and symptoms of autism can be grouped into three categories. The first category is social communication and interaction skills. The second category is restricted behaviors or repetitive behaviors or interests. The third category is other characteristics.

* Avoids or does not keep eye contact
*May not respond to their name
*May not show a range of emotional facial
expressions
*May not play simple interactive games
*May not point to show you something
interesting
*May not notice when others are hurt or upset
*May not notice other children and join them in
play
*May not use pretend play

Source: Signs and Symptoms: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/signs.html
www.asdfamresearch.com

ASD Education:

We'll be sharing a series of posts today that will take a closer look at the signs and symptoms of autism.

To make sure you don't miss out on any of the valuable information, join us back here on our Facebook or Instagram page (link below)
at 11:00 am, 2:00 pm, and 4:00 pm EDT.

We'll be sharing detailed insights and helpful resources that can make a big difference for those affected by autism. Don't forget to set a reminder and invite your friends and family to join us too!

https://instagram.com/afl_at_usc?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

🌟🚿✨ Day 3: "Visual Cues and Step-by-Step Guides" ✨🧼🌈

Hey there awesome peeps! 🌟 Are you ready to dive into the magical world of visual cues and step-by-step guides? 🚀 Today, we're unlocking the secrets to making learning and practicing proper hygiene habits super fun and easy for everyone on the autism spectrum! 🧠💡

🎨📋 Visual cues are like secret codes that help our brain understand things better. They can be pictures, symbols, or even colors that show us what to do step by step. Imagine having a cool map that guides you through your morning routine - from brushing your teeth to combing your hair! 🗺️🦷💇‍♂️

🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️ Step-by-step guides break down big tasks into small, doable steps. It's like playing a fun game where you collect points as you move forward! 🎮🌟 So, if you're learning to wash your hands like a pro, each step gets you closer to becoming a hygiene hero! 🦸‍♂️🧼

🌈🌟 Let's sprinkle some magic dust on our daily routines by adding colorful visuals and super-smooth guides! 🎉✨ Remember, it's all about having fun while learning and growing. 🌟💖 So, grab your sparkle cape, put on your thinking caps, and let's conquer the world, one step at a time! 🌍🚀

Keep shining bright, you amazing stars! 🌟💫
✨🚀🌈🌟🧠🦸‍♂️

❓What’s Happening❓

🌟June Autism Friendly Events: Stay Connected! 🌟

Big shout out to our newest top fans! 💎

Laura Shugart Sigman

Drop a comment to welcome them to our community,

JUNETEENTH-FREEDOM DAY
A Day Of:
RECOGNITITON
RESTORATION
CELEBRATION

🌟✨ Hey there, awesome pals! It's Day 2 of our super cool Essential Hygiene Tips for Children on the Autism Spectrum, and today we're all about "Sensory-Friendly Products"! 🚿🧴

🌈 Let's make our daily routine extra fun and comfy by checking out special products that feel like a cozy hug for our senses. For our buddies on the autism spectrum, finding ways to make everyday stuff super enjoyable is the name of the game, and sensory-friendly products are here to make it happen! 🦸‍♂️🦸‍♀️

🛁 Turn bath time into a spa party with fluffy towels, soaps that smell like rainbows, and brushes that give the best kind of tickles! 🌺✨ Let's turn teeth brushing into a dance-off with minty-fresh toothpaste and brushes that feel like a gentle massage for our gums! 🦷💃

🧼 So, let's jazz up our self-care routine with products that are not only super handy but also a total blast for our senses. Who says taking care of ourselves can't be a blast, right? Let's add some sparkle and shine bright with sensory-friendly products that turn every day into a magical adventure! 🌟🎉

💫 Stay tuned for more awesome tips on how to make each day a celebration of our awesome selves! Let's light up the world with our amazingness! Shine on, you fabulous little stars! ✨🌟 💖🚀

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads from the Autism and Family Lab

Wishing you a wonderful day filled with appreciation and love

Hey there, fellow parents! Welcome to day one of our Essential Hygiene Tips for Children on the Autism Spectrum. Today, we're talking about something super important the importance of routines when it comes to teaching our awesome kids proper hygiene.

So, picture this: routines are like our trusty sidekicks in this adventure. They're like the superhero capes that help our kids feel safe, secure, and ready to tackle the day. Routines bring a sense of order and predictability that can make a world of difference for our kiddos on the autism spectrum.

Think about it when our children know what to expect, it can help calm any anxieties they may have. It's like giving them a roadmap to navigate their day with confidence. Plus, routines give our kids the chance to practice their hygiene skills over and over again, which is so important for mastering those tasks.

And hey, let's not forget about visual aids! Whether it's a fun checklist or a colorful schedule, visual supports can really make the routine come alive for our kids. They help turn everyday tasks into engaging adventures.

By sticking to a routine, we're not just teaching hygiene we're also helping our children become more independent. Consistency is key, my friends! When our kids know what to do and when to do it, they can start taking charge of their own self-care.

And here's the best part…routines aren't just for home. They can be like little portable toolkits that our kids carry with them wherever they go. School, grandma's house, a friend's sleepover our routines can be their trusty companions in any situation.

So, let's embrace the power of routines together, parents! By weaving routines into our daily lives, we're not just teaching hygiene we're setting our kids up for success and helping them shine bright in everything they do. Let's do this!