31/08/2022
Well isn't this such a beautiful quote by Jess Lair.
Every child, whether they're typical or a-typical, is just someone waiting to be understood for who they are. Waiting for that nurturing environment to allow them to blossom into who they're suppose to be. 🌼🌱
06/05/2022
One of the great things about Autism is that it's NOT a degenerative disorder. This means that the function of the brain and the 'Autism' doesn't get worse over time. This is awesome news as it means an individual can learn and improve at any stage in their life. Yes, early intervention is where you'll get the MOST growth, however, it never too late to learn something new. 😉
19/04/2022
Tip #2!
Creating a safe or break space for your child can really create positive change in their behaviour. Allowing them to have a sensory break if they seem overstimulated, or perhaps a little overwhelmed and need time to lay low and recharge for 10, 15 minutes.
Creating this space can support your child's autistic needs and will allow them to reground, when need be.
Consider dedicating a part of the house, just for them. Keep the lighting low, fill it with books, pillows, perhaps some calming music or sensory toys etc... Somewhere where your child can be unapologetically themselves.
awareness
07/04/2022
Alright guys, let's put our science caps on...
Early Intervention simply means the process of getting your child the support they need at an early age (before 6 years old).
The reason why it is so important to get in early, is because in our brains, there is something called neural pathways. This is where our brain makes connections, understands things, puts two and two together etc.
Now, before age 6, our brain plasticity (as in the ability to create these neural pathways or connections) is alot higher, in comparison to when we begin school and eventually grow into a teen and adult.
Therefore when trying to teach new skills or improve development in your child, the more neural plasticity, the easier it will be for them to create the connection... ergo the the earlier your child is, the better the outcome! ✌️
29/03/2022
Hello, Bonjour, Hola, Ciao!
AsDream's mascot Ella is always in the forefront of the media however today, I want to formally introduce the founder and brains behind AsDream Learning... Me!
My name is Shannell and I've been working privately in the field of autism for 7 years. I am super excited to launch this app, to see the real impact it can have on children and families. I am ready for this next exciting chapter to unfold, are you? 🌼
29/03/2022
Tip #1
Be consistent!!
Even though you're "the adult" the relationship you build with the child is incredibly important and must have TRUST. The child needs to be able to understand that you when you say something, it means exactly that. This is obvious when talking about demands however, it ALSO means when you saying you're going to take them to the park, you have to then absolutely take them to the park.
Not "maybe later" or "mm what about watching TV instead?". The child will not respect you or feel respected or valued. So, the solution? ....easy, just be honest about what you're willing to promise and follow through. At the end of the day, we want to build a trusting environment so the child feels vulnerable to make honest choices and feels safe doing so. 💖
29/03/2022
Did you know!?
Boys are almost 5 times more likely to be diagnosed with ASD than girls! 😮
There are many theories as to why this phenomenon occurs. One of them being that girls are alot harder to be diagnosed as they use something called 'masking' to "fit in" and hide their differences.