4 mins read

How Sensory Gyms Help Kids on the Autism Spectrum

Guest Blogger Dina Kimmel writes this week... How Sensory Gyms Help Kids on the Autism Spectrum A trampoline, a zip line, and a climbing structure — these may sound like typical pieces of equipment at any regular kids gym. In actuality, they help foster an inclusive learning and play environment. They are some of the…

5 mins read

Sensory Difficulties in People with Autism

I found this list very helpful in understanding how a person can measure another personʼs sensory difficulties. It looks like good explanation of sensory processing issues for a layperson. What are sensory difficulties? Difficulties with loud noises, smells, being hugged, walking on certain surfaces, and having certain foods in your mouth are some examples. People…

2 mins read

How to Toilet Train a Child With Sensory Issues

Potty training a child, who has sensory issues, can leave you feeling defeated and alone. Watching your friends’ kids beam with pride as they successfully transition from diapers to big boy underwear can be disheartening. Though it may take additional time, and you may have to try some new ideas, you can do several things to help your sensory challenged child join his peers in the “I have to go potty” club.

2 mins read

Sensory Activities for Children

Children are natural explorers, so providing them with experiences and activities that stimulate their senses will fascinate them. Remember that almost any interactive or hands-on sensory experience will have greater resonance than a cultural or educational video. Follow the philosophy of early childhood specialist Howard Gardner, who developed the theory of multiple intelligences, and orchestrate experiences geared toward the various types of learning: musical, visual, kinesthetic, linguistic, interpersonal, naturalistic, mathematical and intrapersonal.

6 mins read

Life in the Trenches from a Special Needs Parenting Advocate

If we can all agree that parenting is difficult, frustrating, and overwhelming mixed in with the many joys of nurturing a young person; then special needs/autism caregiving is like parenting on steroids – everything is heightened. This means that the challenges as an autism mom and advocate often bring me to my knees, and the…