Personalized Autism Training and Certification Awarded To Caribbean-Based Hospitality Resort Chain

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By Kerry Magro, Self-Advocate, National Speaker, and Author

Someone once said that ‘sarcasm is a metric for potential.’ Often at times though this is one of the hardest struggles for those with autism growing up.

A lack of sarcasm is often one of the most common characteristics of struggling with an autism diagnosis along with things such as social and communication issues, difficulties reading body language, using different tones in their voices and many more.

I remember as a young boy on the spectrum in computer class and hearing a joke that I didn’t find funny. It was a sarcastic joke by our teacher and while everyone else in the class laughed I was there completely blank. A girl looked at me after the joke had stopped like I had three heads.

To fit in, I’d often laugh whenever my peers would laugh so I could be part of the group.

Are you joking or are you serious became a common challenge for me during my adolescence. Luckily, my parents started pointing out sarcasm in every day situations and phrases. I could remember a very short woman who was wearing heels one day at school and someone saying, “oh wow, you are SO tall today” and me saying, “but wait, she’s still only 5 feet tall.” Along with my parents, teachers would quickly come in to make me understand the different between a serious moment and sarcasm.

Unfortunately, due to my lack of understanding sarcasm I would often befriend bullies who I thought wanted to be my friends. I was overweight when I was a child for example and a kid would say “Oh, Kerry, you are so skinny” and I’d take that as a compliment.

For educators and parents I often encourage to be as clear in your messaging as humanly possible to avoid misunderstandings. There are many sarcastic phrases today that may go over our heads including phrases such as ‘well that’s just great’ that can be taken literally by many of us.

Also understand though that, like many of my mentees today who are teenagers on the spectrum that they can often out-sarcasam their neurotypical peers at times.

It’s a spectrum.

If your child had a social skills class make sure that this is addressed. Bring it up at a parent/teacher conference. Also, this is something that you can mention in your child’s IEP as something they need additional help with.

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By Elayne Pearson, CAS, Speaker/Author/Disability Advocate

World Down Syndrome Day, March 21st – was created for public awareness, promoting fundamental freedoms, and encouraging inclusion for individuals with Down syndrome.

Many know Down syndrome is a genetically-based condition resulting in a range of mental impairments and developmental delays. It’s official term, Trisomy 21, is caused by an unusual division of the two 21st chromosomes into three. Hence, the term Tri-somy 21.

So, March is the third month, and the 21st day designates World Down Syndrome day. Get it?  Trisomy 21 on 3/21. Clever, huh?

Scientists hypothesize the chromosomal change happens at conception, and currently, there is no known cure for Down syndrome. I could go on with boring scientific stuff, but I won’t. But believe me, life with a child with Down syndrome is anything but boring! We testify of that. Having Heidi in our family has been a joyous adventure for almost 30 years.

I offer parents “20 Tips” to help “keep it up.”

• SHOOK UP ~ Be prepared for various reactions when others hear your baby has Down syndrome. Everyone’s present is a composite of their past, and they see the future through that lens. For example, my father was raised when disabled people were not treated well, and he was shook up when he heard our news. As a scholar of the Old Testament, he suggested our family Fast and Pray to cure Heidi’s mongoloid condition. (His old-fashioned term.) I believed in miracles, but felt our family was meant to experience both growth and joys. (Grandpa Bob became Heidi’s biggest fan.) In contrast, when I told my friend, Jeanie, about our newborn, her eyes brightened up as she excitedly told us about her cute neighbor, Janet, a sweet adult with Down syndrome who lives with her parents and that despite the challenges, have a good “quality of life.”  
• PASS UP ~ A gift of stronger health is established by mothers turning from baby formula — to breast-feeding these fragile infants. Factories can never replicate the perfect meal for babies. I really feel like “mother’s milk” helped Heidi become stronger, healthier, and more engaged as baby and toddler. Since she was premature, plus babies with Down syndrome are generally slower to grow, I was grateful I could nurse little Heidi for well over one year, and lay a good foundation.
• COUNT UP ~ Statistics confirm formula-fed babies have more long-term health problems, especially chronic ear infections, requiring medication and ear-tube surgeries.
• PAIR UP ~ The strain on a marriage with any Special-needs child often causes it to crumble, so please recommit to your family. This may translate into attending appointments together, helping more with childcare, and going on dates as a couple, etc.
  
• SPEAK UP ~ Special children often need specialized equipment. Most family and friends will happily give baby gifts of money — if they know of the need, so don’t be afraid to be honest.
• SET UP ~ Infants with Down syndrome have low muscle tone and often require certain exercises. Busy parents set their schedule and use reminder charts. Let’s remember exercise is still just as vital in their teen and adult years. (I think we’ve all seen quite a few “couch potatoes” among this adult population.)
• HOLD UP ~ Although it seems alright, Allergists advise waiting to introduce solid food, (especially wheat-based), until toddlers are older and robust. Dairy and corn may be problematic for digestion, too.
• MEET UP ~ Sometimes parents feel isolated and overwhelmed, so seek others with similar experiences in parent support organizations, Down syndrome chat rooms online, or special-needs play groups. In my community, we busy moms decided a mothers’ luncheon group worked best while our sweet students were in school! (Finding babysitters for 12-year-olds can be tricky.)
• BUILD UP ~ People diagnosed within this syndrome tend to get ill easily, so building up their immunity with fresh food, quality vitamins, adequate sleep, less media, less junk food, and more exercise is always wise. It’s often challenging to get a handful of vitamins, minerals, and herbs, etc. down these kids, but blended into banana smoothies can be helpful. Powdered supplements from the health food store (mixed with ice, water, etc.) are also a family-friendly way.
• WRITE UP ~ Most grandmas wish they had better accounts of happy experiences and milestones as a younger mom. Journaling doesn’t have to be eloquent, even a cute notebook helps track progress, digression, and especially heart-warming events.
• SWAP UP ~ Don’t be afraid to switch doctors, teachers, care provider, or schools. Proactive parenting makes a big difference.
• LOCK UP ~ Some children crave intense sensory experiences and may jump off high places, repeatedly rub their skin, or eat anything, etc. Please secure chemicals, sharp objects, and potentially harmful items. (We were surprised how smart Heidi was in finding hidden things!)
• LIGHT UP ~ These kids have the sweetest faces and give the best hugs … ever! Enjoy watching faces light up when your child enters a room. This is what it’s all about.
• EASE UP ~ Parents, you can do countless things to help your child with Down syndrome, but remember the whole family, your health, and your finances. Choose wisely.
• LINK UP ~ Involve your child in community and neighborhood happenings, like scouts, art, soccer, dance, and church. You may need to help, or “educate” sometimes, and it’s worth it.
• BRUSH UP ~ It’s tempting to skip daily teeth-brushing, but please don’t. Healthy teeth matter, and this helps prevent expensive dental sedation procedures. I highly caution against accepting gray amalgam dental fillings, as they leak mercury vapors. Heidi tested high in toxic mercury. Read more at www.mercola.com
• DRESS UP ~ Individuals with Downs tend to be shorter in stature, plus have short limbs, so clothes shopping can be challenging. I’m glad I know how to alter/hem Heidi’s clothes. Check out Downs Designs Dreams.
• KEEP UP ~ This adventure is a long haul, so keep forming good habits — enabling your efforts to become easier.
• PLAY UP ~ Okay, some things may seem impossible for your beloved child to achieve (like being a brain surgeon), but always play up positive strengths, and praise persistence for what they can accomplish (like working at the hospital).
• LIGHTEN UP ~ Remember, you can’t do it all. It’s okay. Notice the growth, see the satisfaction, celebrate the achievements, and feel the joy. You’re doin’ good!

Take care, and God Bless.

(NOTE ~ This blog/article may be copied and freely distributed to parents – however, please include author’s name and contact information.)

Elayne Pearson, C.A.S., Special-needs Preparedness Specialist is an author, national speaker, newspaper columnist, and natural health consultant.

Questions/speaking requests/feedback?  Email: hiddentreasuresofhealth@yahoo.com

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Being a caregiver is hard. The scheduling of medical, dental, school and after school activities and appointments is daunting. Let us not forget meal prep and clean up followed by the constant cleaning after little people who leave toys, and food everywhere. Yes, being a caregiver is difficult, and it is not easy when one is the caregiver of a child with Special Needs such as Intellectually Disabilities or Autism.   Is there care for the caregiver and if so, what does care include? Here are some helpful tips to help caregivers.

1. Create a To- Do List
To – do list allows one to prioritize their schedule.  This plan may include scheduling doctor and dental appointments along with other appointments such as Physical, Occupational Therapies.

On the To- Do- should be carved out time for the caregiver to do something for themselves this can be to schedule respite for the child, getting a massage or just finishing the last chapter in a book they were reading. The caregiver needs are critical. Taking the time to write out a to-do list and placing one needs on it will help avoid burnout. http://www.thecompletecaregiver.com/visual_vacations

Ask for Help
As a caregiver, one can quickly put their wants and needs aside to attend to their family member, however, acknowledge where you are. Do you need help with the small tasks, such having a family member get the child off the bus, or setting up a schedule for other medical specialties Ear, Nose and Throat Doctor?  How does the family unit work and what system has the family unit created to help the caregiver? Help may include incorporating grandparents and siblings.http://www.grandparents.com/family-and-relationships/caring-for-children/special-needs-three-a-different-kind,https://siblingsupport.org/

Creating Balance

Every caregiver needs balance. For them to be effective and efficient creating balance includes reaching out to support groups in one’s place of worship.  Or finding support groups online  Getting educated on the child’s diagnosis is very empowering as well.   The International  Board of  Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards has a plethora of resources https://ibcces.org/resources/

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By Elayne Pearson, Special Needs Preparedness Specialist, CAS

Most children love Halloween, but it can be tricky―and downright scary for some. This holiday can be problematic for people with sensory issues―from the intense sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures bombarding them each October.  If you have a child affected by a special-need, especially autism, Halloween can be a complex time. It can conjure a cauldron of concerns―resulting in amplified anxiety, increased impulsivity, deeper withdrawal, and even insomnia and nightmares. Yikes!

Over the many years with Heidi Ann (our little pumpkin with Down syndrome and autism) I learned several strategies to make this crazy/creepy holiday not only a happier one for her, but a sane one for us. My acronym “HALLOWEEN” offers options, cautions, and examples to help set a better tone.

H=HOW. How will the holiday affect your child? Hopefully you can predict responses from past experiences and adapt accordingly. Some people crave and seek sensory stimulation, while others love calm predictability. For the latter, no event feels fun―if you don’t feel safe―and there are many aspects about Halloween which do not offer security. In general, individuals with impairments think literally; so I ask, “Do we really want to subject students to bloody knives, vampires, and skeletons?” Our goal then, should be like Goldilocks―search and create a happy medium that is “juuust right.”

I never allowed anything gruesome around the house, and wanted Heidi to feel even more at peace, so I replaced unsettling bats, spiders, and scary witches with friendly scarecrows, black cats, and goofy ghosts. Our girls loved getting pumpkins and decorating the front porch with corn stocks, squash, and fall leaves.

A=ATTITUDE. Most individuals with autism have difficulty processing satire, teasing, and “pranks.” Spook alleys can be over-stimulating, even traumatizing.  Do we want to ‘promote’ the concept of tricking or threatening people?

Instead, our family focused on making Halloween about clever costumes, creative jack-o-lanterns, and hot chocolate at the pumpkin patch.

L=LIGHT. This helps insure safety, plus it’s empowering. A good flashlight might be the difference between a meltdown and trauma, and a happy night. “Glow Sticks” are economical, but don’t illuminate very far.

Be careful when lighting candles for pumpkins; butane lighters and matches can become a fire obsession. I know two families, both with a teenaged son who found a lighter, and accidentally burned their home.

L=LOTS. Halloween has a lot of sugar, dyes, preservatives and chemicals through candy, face paints, and hair color sprays which suppresses the human immune system, clogs the liver, and inflames the brain. These substances open the door to the haunted house of hyperactivity, anxiety, and illness. I wonder, “Is tons of free candy worth the fallout?”

Proactive moms prepare before Halloween. We can all raise our body’s immunity with increased hydration, additional sleep, exercise, sunshine, supplements, and positive thoughts. I would double-dose Heidi’s multi-vitamin which included amino acids (for brain support) several days before and after Halloween, and she never got sick.

O=OPTIONS. I admire folks who opt out of buying huge bags of candy, and purchase pencils, stickers, small toys, or goofy teeth instead. This year I’m thinking about giving out balloons.

W=WHAT TO WEAR. Costumes for special-needs children are challenging so keep it simple. Recall past October weather to determine if your child needs a costume that fits over a sweatshirt or coat. Sensory issues are real. Will that clever fake straw collar of your cute scarecrow feel insanely itchy? Can your son handle a flashlight, cape, sword and shield, plus his goodie bag? Simplify.

E=EAT. Parents with children who have special needs frequently try to trick-or-treat before dark, so the evening meal often get ignored. Eating beforehand is a wise thing to keep blood sugar stable because you will soon be fighting those evil soldiers from Sugarland. Also, explain the need to save their treats for the at-home-safety-check.

My sister-in-law, Bonnie, started a fun tradition for their clan with an “Orange and Black Dinner” on Halloween. (Think carrot sticks, black olives, fresh orange slices, and sloppy joe meat poured in a hollowed-out pumpkin.) A sneaky mom is one who tries to concoct fun, safe, healthy holiday memories.

If you’re a parent to a munchkin with gluten-free, soy-free, and/or dairy-free sensitivities, follow the yellow brick road, and deliver appropriate treats to friends and trusted neighbors beforehand, insuring positive adventures in the Land of Au-tism.

E=ESTABLISH. Children do better with established routines (like brushing teeth before bed, vitamins with breakfast, exercise without soda pop). Everyone has weaker coping responses when were tired, so maintaining good sleep schedules this season is vital.

N=NEIGHBORS. I wish every neighborhood had only kind, law-abiding citizens, but statistics indicate otherwise. Tragically, the special-needs population is sometimes targeted by deeply troubled individuals―so listen to your gut instincts and follow intuition.  Some parents go only to the homes of friends and trustworthy neighbors on Halloween―and do not feel obligated to visit their entire apartment floor, building, or street, etc.

I pose a question for your worst-case, living nightmare scenario. If there is an abduction or emergency of your vulnerable loved one, have you set aside or given your local law enforcement recent, clear photos, descriptions, DNA samples, and described tendencies of him or her (such as non-compliance to verbal requests) plus your contact information? So glad I’ve done this for Miss Heidi, it really gives me more peace of mind.

Having said all that―this season may actually be a good time to increase awareness and strengthen relationships. Going trick-or-treating to unfamiliar neighbors may be the perfect time to introduce yourselves and begin build bridges of understanding and needed support.

I’m so grateful our family had a circle of caring folks around us during Heidi’s difficult younger years when she was so impulsive and unpredictable. They honestly saved my sanity and possibly her life, at times.

Well, that ends my Halloween acronym.

Life may feel like a shipwreck, but we must keep swimming, search for things to keep us afloat, and sing in the life boats! May your Halloween be anchored in safe, uplifting memories for you and your crew. That’s the real treat.

Take care,

Elayne

This article may be reprinted, etc. as long as name/info. of author is included.

Comments or invitations for Elayne, email: hiddentreasuresofhealth@yahoo.com 

More information/support at www.hiddentreasuresofhealth.com

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By Taveesha Guyton, Social Worker & soon-to-be CAS

I am a social work professional whose expertise is working with the intellectually-disabled and population of individuals with autism. I really love my job and who I work for.  My sole purpose in my position is to provide resources, education and advocacy for this steady growing population, which affects 1 in 68 births in the United States.

1. Listen to you clients.  What I want for my clients is very different from what they want for themselves.  Many times in the field, professionals who work with clients look at the end result versus looking at the here and now. I have learned to listen what is being said and sometimes what is not being said.

2. Provide Choices.  Providing choices. It is important to exercise the ability to choose. Providing options are the best way for people to find out what they like and do not like and it also helps create more conversation about many other things. Choice making is a skill I feel is not exercised enough with this population. (Check out great visual support ideas here.)

3. Ensure proper supports are in place.  What is needed for this individual with autism to maintain a ” normal” life is usually the question asked and how do we as  a professionally supportive community help create this world for this individual? Will the individual need vocational rehabilitation because their goal is to earn competitive wages? If the individual’s goal is to live alone, will this person need the assistance of a Supported Living Coach? Will this individual need guidance for activities of daily living such as medication management, making doctor’s appointments, meal preparation and grocery shopping? What about socialization and community-based outings? Will the individual need someone to help integrate them into the community?

In assisting in the coordination and maintenance of services for the individual with special needs or autism, social workers are able to make the lives of  individuals with autism a little better.

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By Elayne Pearson, Special Needs Preparedness Specialist, Author, and National Speaker

July is great for recalling our amazing heritage in this choice land. I adore the patriotic music, programs, and parades. However, there were many years when even attending a local July 4^th parade with Miss Heidi, our cute daughter with Down syndrome and autism, was very stressful. Personally, I loved the spirit of patriotism, the scalloped star-spangled bunting, and creating parade floats. Our four daughters in their crisp red, white, and blue outfits (and matching hair bows) undoubtedly felt the excitement in the air too, but our youngest, Heidi (who craved peace, quiet, and predictability) probably felt like she was entering a war zone, with random firecrackers, flashing police lights directing the excited mobs, smoke and BBQ odors from vendors, and bands playing with true vigor.  More than once, Heidi darted off in a “parade panic” and our family (also in a panic) thankfully always found her.

Over the years I’ve learned a lot and offer terrific safety tips for parents of loved ones affected by autism. Truly there are three phases to managing any big event; before, during and after. My cheerful theme song? “Keep it up!”

Phase 1 – BEFORE the Big Parade

TEAM UP- Many people with special needs experience high anxiety and become impulsive when overwhelmed, and resort to fight or flight mode. It’s scary having individuals like my Heidi unexpectedly dart off, knowing when they finally stop running or are found, they’re hardly even able to say their name, let alone give personal information. While it may feel a little embarrassing, wise parents realize they need support from friends, family, trusted neighborhood watch groups, and local authorities to keep everyone safe. Start these conversations.

SPEAK UP- When Heidi was a teenager, I finally took a photo of her to our Sheriff’s office, and shared our cell phone numbers and address. They appreciated my pro-active connection. I indicated she had no fear of typical dangers, and may ignore their questions.  Also, Heidi could be enticed with a candy bar or soda pop (which has pros and cons). I shared information about her attraction to water (ponds, pools, and fountains), animals, and high places (like balconies and playground slides).  This simple step was a real comfort to me, and a real help for them. Just wish I’d done it sooner.

PRINT UP- Some parents create a special T-shirt, identification bracelet, or dog-tag-type necklace with vital information for their vulnerable children. Several choices are available, so tailor it to your needs. For example, does your child “mouth” everything? We invested in a sturdy metal bracelet for Heidi, because she’s so strong and broke pretty necklace chains. There are “buttons” which can be personalized then pinned on, or “safety stickers” printed up.

GATHER UP- The morning of the parade is too busy to organize all the things you may need, so a few days in advance gather the sunscreen, hats, blanket, safety harness, bug spray, medications, camera, extra undies/diapers, wet wipes, snacks, bubbles and umbrella. Be sure and freeze some water.

POWER UP- If your loved one needs batteries for hearing aids or power-generated items, like a wheelchair, make sure it’s juiced up in advance or pack spare batteries that are ready to go.

BUY UP- Depending on where you sit on the parade route, the procession can take a while to get there, and sometimes negative actions set in. Beforehand, pick up a new little toy or something appropriate to amuse your child while waiting.

Phase 2 – DURING the Parade and Park Activities

DIVIDE UP- Consider possible parade locations carefully, if your special child needs bathrooms close or a shady quieter area, you may want to “stake your claim” early with camp chairs, rope, or a couple of old blankets. Some parents split up the family arrival times, and keep their cell phones handy.

OPEN UP- Umbrellas are great for rain and shade, but another easy tip is blocking visual clutter. Super-excited children running around Heidi creates anxiety, so simply opening our umbrella in front of her while we waited for the pretty floats actually helped her.

LINK UP- After the parade confirm your child’s safety harness, or “buddy-up” to avoid separation. Having a pre-arranged meeting place if someone gets lost is smart. (Not the flag pole at the post office, because there may be several flags around that day, creating a lot of confusion.)

BREAK UP- Breaking up the marathon into small portions of quiet time somewhere, or even going home, might be wise to help ensure everyone lasting through the family BBQ and fireworks.

CUT UP- At the family picnic or park after, please remember hot dogs are the number one food which creates a choking hazard. Don’t let that spoil your holiday, please cut them into small pieces.

FILL UP- Before any fireworks are lit, fill a large bucket with water for dousing hot sparklers, matches, etc. Watch for dry weeds or wood in your area. Go over the safety rules and stick to them. Fireworks have blown off fingers and caused blindness, so please remember, safety saves.

LIGHT UP-  Even seemingly simple “sparklers” can cause burned hands if not handled properly. Swapping sparklers for glow sticks provides safe, inexpensive fun.

BACK UP- Frequently, individuals with disabilities have hyper-sensitive senses. The noise of the exploding fireworks, the smell of the smoke creating watery eyes, while sitting in the “prickly” grass, quite often is just too much. Consider moving into the house or your vehicle and watching the light-show from there.

Phase 3 – AFTER the Big Holiday

REST UP- Everyone will be pretty wiped out, so don’t plan anything that next day or two if possible. You all need a quiet, simple day with fairly normal routines.

FOLLOW UP- After it’s all over, evaluate the day and jot down some adjustment for next year. Thankfully, these courageous children are growing every year with our loving guidance and support. Over time we’ll come to new mutual understanding and find additional joy in family traditions and holidays.

CHIN UP- Keep smilin’ and carry on! You’re a modern-day patriot doing your part for your country.

~ Elayne Pearson, Founder of Hidden Treasures of Health, is a Special Needs Preparedness Specialist, author, and national speaker. She loves learning natural health tips and teaching trauma-recovery tools. Her hobbies include performing in musical theater productions, scrap-booking, and playing with her grandchildren.

~ For more helpful tips, tools, and techniques visit Elayne at www.hiddentreasuresofhealth.com

~ For speaking invitations, please email:  hiddentreasuresofhealth@yahoo.com

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