St. John's Main Lobby
1235 E, Cherekee
Springfield, Mo.
Jan. 15th - Feb. 15th
Friday, January 7, 2011
Faces of Autism at St. John's Hospital
St. John's Main Lobby
1235 E, Cherekee
Springfield, Mo.
Jan. 15th - Feb. 15th
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
An Amazing year!
The totals are in and boy, are we just absolutely blown away. Our walk was our largest to date. We welcomed over 1,000 walkers (about 600 last year) and have raised over $80,000 ($60,000 last year) with donations still coming in through Dec. 31. We are absolutely amazed at our community. Thank you so much for everyones work and support. I will post Zion's Tribe totals once I know, but I think this year we will be close to $4000!
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
September 11th- Walk Now for Autism Speaks/ Southwest Missouri
Last week I took Zion for his yearly doctor’s appointment. Can you believe it has been a year since he went to the doctor? He has been totally healthy all year long…a very new experience for us compared to the years with so many health problems. Anyway, our pediatrician was so impressed with the progress he has made. She really believes that we have recovered Zion from the world of autism. The years of work have paid off!!!
Zion is a testament to early intervention. He was two years old when he was first diagnosed. He was totally non-verbal and scared of his own shadow. He is now seven and has had almost five years of therapy. He is attending second grade this next year in a neuro-typical classroom; reading on target and writing with perfect handwriting. He is gifted in math and seems to have the mindset for concrete subjects. He spends less than an hour a day in special education.
He is becoming more and more “normal”. However, as he gets older and becomes more independent his autism shows in different ways. He is becoming bit more rigid in his routine. We have to tell him in advance what the plan is or he gets upset. He does not understand past or future and has trouble with positional words. He also is having quite a few behavior problems. He gets frustrated and hits or punches. It is very difficult for him to make friends because he is way behind his peers in regards to social skills. This is my greatest concern for him. I pray that he continues to make progress in this area.
Accomplishments this year include:
Learning How to Ride his bike
• He became a wolf cub-scout.
• Went on 2 day camp-out with Jason and did not have to come home early.
• He played in a special needs softball league.
• He threw out the first pitch at the Springfield Cardinals Autism Speaks day.
• July 23rd-29th, he will attend Camp Barnabas; a special needs camp, with Hannah.
• He is taking part in our community awareness campaign called the Faces of Autism, a traveling photo exhibit of those affected with autism and their stories.
Jason and I just recently attended the Autism Speaks National Walk Conference in Virginia. We were fortunate enough to meet the people in charge, including the Chief Science Officer, Geri Dawson. We heard about all the new research that is taking place around the world, all made possible with the walk money we raise, THE MONEY YOU SEND! Some of this research is on the cusp of major breakthroughs. Just think about a world, in the future, without the negative effects of autism: A world where our kids are not lost in their own minds and able to talk and communicate with their parents and siblings.
Please consider helping us raise our goal of $3000 for team Zion’s Tribe: Walk Now for Autism Speaks 2010.
Two ways to help:
Donate to Jason or me as individual walkers:
http://www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/swmissouri/taraholcomb
http://www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/swmissouri/jasonholcomb
Or log on to Face book and Follow the Puzzle link on my Page
Or Join the Team:
• Join and get a free Autism Speaks Silicone bracelet.
• Raise $100 and get a Zion’s Tribe T-Shirt
• Each $25 after that you get entered into a drawing for a $100 gift card (Target, Sears, or Home Depot)
We want to thank you in advance for all the support you all have shown us over the last five years. We want to make a difference in the lives of others with autism and we can do that with your help.
Sincerely, Tara, Jason, Hannah, Zion and Caleb
Where your Money Goes:
Research, Advocacy, Awareness, and Community Services
As of March 2009
Research: Autism Speaks has committed over $98 million in grants to support 773 promising research projects and fellowships into the causes and treatments of autism. The investment in these research grants alone has been leveraged into nearly $153 million in NIH and other funding.
Advocacy: Missouri is one of 21 states who have identified State Insurance Reform as a priority this legislative session. In March, 2009 Senate Bill 167 and House Bill 357/198 UNANIMOUSLY passed out of their committees. Federal Advocacy is also a priority of Autism Speaks and our families, as they reach out to their federal senators and representatives to foster support of the ABLE Accounts Act of 2009. Autism Speaks will continue to support the effects of the Combating Autism Act and Expanding the Promise for Individuals with Autism Act to ensure federal dollars are appropriated for autism research and services for families.
Awareness:
• As a result of the award-winning Autism Speaks “Odds” campaign in partnership with the Ad Council, there has been a 43 percentage point increase in public awareness of ASDs.
• In December 2007, the United Nations declared April 2nd World Autism Awareness Day.
• In Missouri, Autism Speaks volunteers and staff organize a number of Autism Awareness Days
Community/Family Services: These grants help community organizations expand existing programs to serve more individuals with autism, and create new programs that demonstrate true innovation in providing services in one of the following areas of need: Education, Recreation/Community Activities, Equipment/Supportive Technology or Young Adult/Adult Services.
ADDITIONAL FAMILY RESOURCES
• 100-Day Kit for Newly Diagnosed Families – this free kit provides helpful, personalized information which includes local resources, support groups, where and how to find services, local conferences and recreational activities (also available in Spanish).
• School Community Toolkit – available online to assist members of the school community in understanding and supporting students with autism.
• Dental Tool Kit: Autism Speaks has teamed up with Colgate and Philips-Sonicare to create a dental guide and video to provide tips for improving oral hygiene at home, as well as information about how parents and dental professionals can make a visit to the dentist's office less stressful and more productive.
• Aspergers and High Functioning Autism Tool Kit: were created specifically for newly diagnosed families to make the best possible use of the 100 days following their child's diagnosis of autism or AS/HFA.
• Family Services Resource Guide – lists over 650 Florida resources and more nationwide. This extensive, searchable online database brings resources to families, like early intervention to adult services, and is searchable by zip code.
• Autism Response Team (ART) – the ART team is comprised of full-time, paid employees who are also parents of children with autism. The ART specialists are experienced and trained to respond to a variety of questions and concerns from families affected by autism. Call 1-800-AUTISM2 to speak with an ART representative.
Zion is a testament to early intervention. He was two years old when he was first diagnosed. He was totally non-verbal and scared of his own shadow. He is now seven and has had almost five years of therapy. He is attending second grade this next year in a neuro-typical classroom; reading on target and writing with perfect handwriting. He is gifted in math and seems to have the mindset for concrete subjects. He spends less than an hour a day in special education.
He is becoming more and more “normal”. However, as he gets older and becomes more independent his autism shows in different ways. He is becoming bit more rigid in his routine. We have to tell him in advance what the plan is or he gets upset. He does not understand past or future and has trouble with positional words. He also is having quite a few behavior problems. He gets frustrated and hits or punches. It is very difficult for him to make friends because he is way behind his peers in regards to social skills. This is my greatest concern for him. I pray that he continues to make progress in this area.
Accomplishments this year include:
Learning How to Ride his bike
• He became a wolf cub-scout.
• Went on 2 day camp-out with Jason and did not have to come home early.
• He played in a special needs softball league.
• He threw out the first pitch at the Springfield Cardinals Autism Speaks day.
• July 23rd-29th, he will attend Camp Barnabas; a special needs camp, with Hannah.
• He is taking part in our community awareness campaign called the Faces of Autism, a traveling photo exhibit of those affected with autism and their stories.
Jason and I just recently attended the Autism Speaks National Walk Conference in Virginia. We were fortunate enough to meet the people in charge, including the Chief Science Officer, Geri Dawson. We heard about all the new research that is taking place around the world, all made possible with the walk money we raise, THE MONEY YOU SEND! Some of this research is on the cusp of major breakthroughs. Just think about a world, in the future, without the negative effects of autism: A world where our kids are not lost in their own minds and able to talk and communicate with their parents and siblings.
Please consider helping us raise our goal of $3000 for team Zion’s Tribe: Walk Now for Autism Speaks 2010.
Two ways to help:
Donate to Jason or me as individual walkers:
http://www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/swmissouri/taraholcomb
http://www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/swmissouri/jasonholcomb
Or log on to Face book and Follow the Puzzle link on my Page
Or Join the Team:
• Join and get a free Autism Speaks Silicone bracelet.
• Raise $100 and get a Zion’s Tribe T-Shirt
• Each $25 after that you get entered into a drawing for a $100 gift card (Target, Sears, or Home Depot)
We want to thank you in advance for all the support you all have shown us over the last five years. We want to make a difference in the lives of others with autism and we can do that with your help.
Sincerely, Tara, Jason, Hannah, Zion and Caleb
Where your Money Goes:
Research, Advocacy, Awareness, and Community Services
As of March 2009
Research: Autism Speaks has committed over $98 million in grants to support 773 promising research projects and fellowships into the causes and treatments of autism. The investment in these research grants alone has been leveraged into nearly $153 million in NIH and other funding.
Advocacy: Missouri is one of 21 states who have identified State Insurance Reform as a priority this legislative session. In March, 2009 Senate Bill 167 and House Bill 357/198 UNANIMOUSLY passed out of their committees. Federal Advocacy is also a priority of Autism Speaks and our families, as they reach out to their federal senators and representatives to foster support of the ABLE Accounts Act of 2009. Autism Speaks will continue to support the effects of the Combating Autism Act and Expanding the Promise for Individuals with Autism Act to ensure federal dollars are appropriated for autism research and services for families.
Awareness:
• As a result of the award-winning Autism Speaks “Odds” campaign in partnership with the Ad Council, there has been a 43 percentage point increase in public awareness of ASDs.
• In December 2007, the United Nations declared April 2nd World Autism Awareness Day.
• In Missouri, Autism Speaks volunteers and staff organize a number of Autism Awareness Days
Community/Family Services: These grants help community organizations expand existing programs to serve more individuals with autism, and create new programs that demonstrate true innovation in providing services in one of the following areas of need: Education, Recreation/Community Activities, Equipment/Supportive Technology or Young Adult/Adult Services.
ADDITIONAL FAMILY RESOURCES
• 100-Day Kit for Newly Diagnosed Families – this free kit provides helpful, personalized information which includes local resources, support groups, where and how to find services, local conferences and recreational activities (also available in Spanish).
• School Community Toolkit – available online to assist members of the school community in understanding and supporting students with autism.
• Dental Tool Kit: Autism Speaks has teamed up with Colgate and Philips-Sonicare to create a dental guide and video to provide tips for improving oral hygiene at home, as well as information about how parents and dental professionals can make a visit to the dentist's office less stressful and more productive.
• Aspergers and High Functioning Autism Tool Kit: were created specifically for newly diagnosed families to make the best possible use of the 100 days following their child's diagnosis of autism or AS/HFA.
• Family Services Resource Guide – lists over 650 Florida resources and more nationwide. This extensive, searchable online database brings resources to families, like early intervention to adult services, and is searchable by zip code.
• Autism Response Team (ART) – the ART team is comprised of full-time, paid employees who are also parents of children with autism. The ART specialists are experienced and trained to respond to a variety of questions and concerns from families affected by autism. Call 1-800-AUTISM2 to speak with an ART representative.
Zion and Louie the cardinal.
Faces of Autism Photo Exhibit
Friday, August 20, 2010
Faces of Autism Photo Exhibit at the Mud House in August
Faces of Autism photo exhibit will be at the Mud House the whole month of August.
The Mud House is located at: 323 South Avenue, Springfield, Mo.
Check out their menu here:
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Sibling Jealousy
At first I thought it was just her being a little girl and eight year old hormones. But I am not sure anymore. Jason and I are involved heavily in the autism community and the Walk Now for Autism Speaks, but we always balance that out with piano lessons and Girl Scout events. We try so hard not to make her feel less or less cared for. Sometimes I think we over compensate (new puppy). I really believe that we have done a good job about giving everyone equal attention and opportunities. But still she feels this way. Is it just perception or is there something that I am not seeing?
She is a great sister to her brothers. And when she is in her "right" mind she cares deeply about kids with autism and her brother. But when she is upset or sensitive she lashes out at Zion and tells him that autism is bad. Which then makes Zion come to me and ask questions about his autism. He asked me yesterday if he had a brain. (tear)
She usually doesn't complain about objects or things he gets, she actually complains about me feeling more for him. Not loving him more or caring about him more, but that I cry for him and for other kids with autism more and she wants me to cry for her. I wish it was something I could change easily, but since I seem to overflow with tears when one of "our" kids in the community accomplishes some little or great goal, I don't think this is going to change. I am actually happy I don't have to cry over Hannah in this way. She is amazing. She can accomplish anything she sets her mind to with little or no trouble.
She will be attending a sibling support group soon and I also may get her some individual therapy. She also will be leaving for Camp Barnabas this week. I am praying that she makes friends with other girls that have brothers who have autism. I pray that she expresses her feelings to them and maybe they can understand her on a level I can't. I only know what it is like to be a mom of a child with autism. The worry, the fear, the hope, the triumph....but I feel that with all my kids.
Her words everyday,"I wish Zion didn't have autism." That is my wish too, but life has already dealt those cards for us. My wish is that all my kids feel equally loved and cherished, and I seem to failing at it. I guess we just need to work harder.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Walk Now for Autism Speaks Kick-Off Saturday, July 10th
Booths included are: Faces of Autism Photo Project, new team tables, seasoned team tables with their ideas, Autism Speaks science table, fund-raiser idea tables, tribute trail table and team mentor-ship table. We also will be having an autism expert panel discussion, where you as moms or dads can come and ask questions, to six different professionals, regarding their different fields of therapy. There will also be a movie room for the kids. Incentives to come. Lunch will be served after the panel discussion.
Please come and bring your team.
RSVP: springfield@autismspeaks.org
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Shoot Out for Autism
What a great family who raise a lot of money for Autism Speaks every year through their Shoot Out for Autism. They are good friends of ours and we would appreciate it so much if you give them a call and reserve your spot, for their sporting clay shoot or pistol shoot. Be a part of finding a cure or cause for autism.
May 29th, Sporting Clay
July 31st, Pistol Contest
May 29th, Sporting Clay
July 31st, Pistol Contest
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Faces of Autism Exhibit Opening: Friday, May 7th
Faces of Autism Exhibit Opening
Friday, May 7th 6-10PM
Freedom Photography
400 West Commercial Street
Springfield, Mo. 65803
Photo exhibit and digital media presentation featuring families from Southwest Missouri affected by autism. This event is to raise awareness and support for the Southwest Missouri Walk Now for Autism Speaks which is taking place September 11th, 2010 at Jordan Valley Park, Downtown Springfield, Missouri.
This is a free and open to the public event. Please come and celebrate our kids and make a difference in raising awareness about autism.
Refreshments will be served.
Friday, May 7th 6-10PM
Freedom Photography
400 West Commercial Street
Springfield, Mo. 65803
Photo exhibit and digital media presentation featuring families from Southwest Missouri affected by autism. This event is to raise awareness and support for the Southwest Missouri Walk Now for Autism Speaks which is taking place September 11th, 2010 at Jordan Valley Park, Downtown Springfield, Missouri.
This is a free and open to the public event. Please come and celebrate our kids and make a difference in raising awareness about autism.
Refreshments will be served.
Monday, April 19, 2010
NBC's Parenthood is having a Walk Now for Autism Speaks Event
The Braverman's are attending an Autism Speaks Walk in mid-May! This is an exciting post because I am a huge fan of Parenthood, the new NBC series that has a storyline that involves a child on the autism spectrum. One of the families has just found out that their child, Max, has Asperger Syndrome. This is a form of autism that is considered higher functioning, but still has significant symptoms that can be debilitating for a family. Persons with asperger syndrome may have symptoms that include: rigid schedules, sensory issues, complulsive behavior and having difficulty relating socially with others.
As you know, Jason and I are very involved with Autism Speaks and the Walk Now for Autism Speaks that is held every September here in Springfield. Jason is actually the co-chair for the Southwest Missouri Walk this year. Lots of work to set these sort of events up. So this sorta doubles our life right now. These walk events are a source of support for the thousands of families who have a child on the spectrum, and they raise valuable funds for research and community grants. If you have never been to one of "our" events you will be able to get the feel of it on screen and then in September when I ask you for support you will be reminded to support us in our goal. :)
Please take a minute to read the Autism Speaks Blog about the event and tune in to watch! It says it will air in mid-may.
http://blog.autismspeaks.org/2010/04/18/bell-parenthood/
As you know, Jason and I are very involved with Autism Speaks and the Walk Now for Autism Speaks that is held every September here in Springfield. Jason is actually the co-chair for the Southwest Missouri Walk this year. Lots of work to set these sort of events up. So this sorta doubles our life right now. These walk events are a source of support for the thousands of families who have a child on the spectrum, and they raise valuable funds for research and community grants. If you have never been to one of "our" events you will be able to get the feel of it on screen and then in September when I ask you for support you will be reminded to support us in our goal. :)
Please take a minute to read the Autism Speaks Blog about the event and tune in to watch! It says it will air in mid-may.
http://blog.autismspeaks.org/2010/04/18/bell-parenthood/
Monday, April 12, 2010
April 17th: Autism Awareness Day @ the Springfield Cardinals
Autism Awareness Day with the Springfield Cardinals is this Saturday, April 17th. We have sold all of our own tickets, but I am sure you can still get tickets through the box office. We are pretty sure that Zion will get to throw out the first pitch (our team sold the most tickets). I have been prepping him for it, we will see how he cooperates.
During the pre-game show there will be a short slide show of some of the Faces of Autism Project and statistics on how autism now affects 1 in 110 children. There will also be hundreds of families of loved ones who have autism. It is our time to get together and support Autism Speaks, but also support each other. Plus, it is FUN!
During the pre-game show there will be a short slide show of some of the Faces of Autism Project and statistics on how autism now affects 1 in 110 children. There will also be hundreds of families of loved ones who have autism. It is our time to get together and support Autism Speaks, but also support each other. Plus, it is FUN!
Friday, March 19, 2010
Shoot Out for Autism
One of the most successful fundraisers in our Autism Speaks Community in Southwest Missouri is the Shoot Out for Autism. Michael and Heather Woodring continue to make this an event that is successful and fun for all those who attend. They are an inspiration to all us other parents with children on the spectrum. When our son was diagnosed we were introduced to them through a mutual friend. Heather helped Jason and I get on the right path with therapy and even introduced us to Zion's "worker" he has today. We really appreciate them and their dedication to raise funds and hope to find a cure for autism.
If you are interested in shooting sporting clays or want to participate in the pistol shoot (new this year) take a look at their page and give them a call.
www.shootoutforautism.com
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Tales from the Spectrum
Just recently I got a hold of an album with music devoted exclusively to having a child on the autism spectrum. With song titles like: My Biggest Hero, Stimming and Life on the Spectrum you can not escape the truth and love behind these songs.
I know the heart of these people and hope that their passion in life (their music) helps them and everyone else who listens to it, be able to find the wonder and awe of having a child on the spectrum. God helps us through all the terrible times, by giving us gifts of first words and eye contact, and friendship and camaraderie with others who are going through the same thing. I definitely found that listening to this CD.
The Neotypicals from Branson, Missouri are hoping to raise awareness and promote research and rescue for those affected with autism. I suggest that you take a listen and support their cause at www.theneotypicals.com
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Faces of Autism Photo Project
An introduction to Faces of Autism, a photo project for raising autism awareness and promoting the 2010 Southwest Missouri Walk Now for Autism Speaks. The photo exhibit will be used throughout 2010 for First Friday Art Walks and other events. Contact us if you are interested in participating.
Friday, December 18, 2009
This video reminded me of Zion and how perfect he is.
My friends Dan and Judy sent me this link... and it makes me think of Zion. Sometimes we pressure the ones we love, wanting him or her to be something impossible. I believe in the impossible, but sometimes there is a point where you let them be just who they are. And in that, they are the best.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Halloween
This Halloween was a pretty big step up for Zion. The past few years he hasn't really understood the dressing up and going out asking for candy. Most of the houses that we went to last year I had to tell the people inside that he had autism and that is why he just walked right into their house and sat down or why he didn't come within ten feet of the inflatable casket with smoke pouring out. This year he was the one leading the gang. First of all he started getting ready for Halloween October 1st. He has looked forward with much anticipation to the school party, trick or treating and "the pumpkin patch."
Halloween night we dressed him up in the little Air Force pilot's outfit (embroidered with his name) from his aunt Jessica and bought a Speed Racer helmet at Walmart. He hated that the helmet kept yelling speed racer noises in his ear, but we told him he would get more candy if he kept it on. He got in to the swing of things and didn't seem scared of the inflated skeletons or huge clown giving out candy. The only thing that seemed to faze him at all was when he came around a car in the drive way and saw the homeowner dressed up as a zombie, sitting in a chair ready to scare whomever came to his door. I don't think he got candy from that house, he ran too fast. But on the other hand, every child ran. It wasn't just the child with autism.
I am just so proud of him. He conquered a lot of fears this past weekend. He realized that the sounds, smells, and smoke and illusions are all just part of the holiday. There are actually people behind those masks and they are just wanting candy too! We are all out there for one thing. And I think we have found the reward for Zion for all those fears conquered. Candy!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Getting Siblings Involved and 15 tips for your Family with an Autism Diagnosis
Jason and I have spent much of our time talking, advocating and raising money for autism research . We have had therapists come and go through our house, playing and teaching Zion, and understandably our daughter Hannah sometimes feels neglected.
Through the years she has struggled with having a brother with autism. She is jealous of the attention he gets from everyone and some times she feels frustration with not having a neurotypical brother to play with. She has said many times she wished Zion did not have autism. Other times she has said she wished she had autism, so that we could have a walk just for her.
Letting her express her feelings, educating her about autism, and giving her much needed alone time with mommy and daddy has helped. But there are some of her feelings that I won't be able to understand, because I am a mother not a sibling of someone on the spectrum. We have done a couple things over the years that seem to have helped develop her confidence and a purpose as a sibling of a brother with autism.
First of all, Educate them. Hannah is a known autism advocate and I always call her Zion's greatest therapist. She has been here 24/7 teaching Zion everything a neurotypical child should know. She quizzes him on feelings, and does floor time therapy as well and I do. She knows what autism is and how many children are affected by it. She knows the different sensitivities that a child might have and what helps sooth Zion. Unfortunately, she also knows what triggers him, which just shows how they have developed a normal sibling relationship. I can never express my thankfulness at having a neurotypical child first, before Zion. She has been a great model for him.
Second, Get them involved. Making Hannah an integral part of our Walk Now for Autism team has given her confidence. She knows the other siblings of children on the spectrum in our community. She speaks to her girl scout troop and class about autism. She also befriends other kids at her school who are on the spectrum. She has been a patient teacher and friend to boys in her class who are struggling, just as she has been for Zion.
Finally, Do things for them that have nothing to do with autism. Girl Scouts, piano lessons, mommy and daughter trips (just went to California with her) and dance parties in the living room are some of the things she just loves to do. She comes first during these times. She gets our attention just as much as Zion does.
Sometimes we have let autism become our life to the neglect of everything else. I know every mother understands what I am talking about. But we must make sure our other kids know they are just as special and they have a wonderful and awesome place in our family.
Fifteen Tips for Your Family
As a result of her work with many families who deal so gracefully with the challenges of autism, Family Therapist, Kathryn Smerling, Ph.D., offers these five tips for parents, five for siblings and five for extended family members:
5 Tips for Parents
Learn to be the best advocate you can be for your child. Be informed. Take advantage
of all the services that are available to you in your community. You will meet practitioners and providers who can educate you and help you. You will gather great strength from the people you meet.
Don't push your feelings away. Talk about them. You may feel both ambivalent and angry. Those are emotions to be expected. It's OK to feel conflicting emotions. Try to direct your anger towards the disorder and not towards your loved ones. When you find yourself arguing with your spouse over an autism related issue, try to remember that this topic is painful for both of you; and be careful not to get mad at each other when it really is the autism that has you so upset and angry.
Try to have some semblance of an adult life. Be careful to not let autism consume every waking hour of your life. Spend quality time with your typically developing children and your spouse, and refrain from constantly talking about autism. Everyone in your family needs support, and to be happy despite the circumstances.
Appreciate the small victories your child may achieve. Love your child and take great pride in each small accomplishment. Focus on what they can do instead of making comparisons with a typically developing child. Love them for who they are rather than what they should be.
Get involved with the Autism community. Don't underestimate the power of “community”. You may be the captain of your team, but you can't do everything yourself. Make friends with other parents who have children with autism. By meeting other parents you will have the support of families who understand your day to day challenges. Getting involved with autism advocacy is empowering and productive. You will be doing something for yourself as well as your child by being proactive.
5 Tips for Brothers & Sisters
Remember that you are not alone! Every family is confronted with life's challenges… and yes, autism is challenging… but, if you look closely, nearly everyone has something difficult to face in their families.
Be proud of your brother or sister. Learn to talk about autism and be open and comfortable describing the disorder to others. If you are comfortable with the topic…they will be comfortable too. If you are embarrassed by your brother or sister, your friends will sense this and it will make it awkward for them. If you talk openly to your friends about autism, they will become comfortable. But, like everyone else, sometimes you will love your brother or sister, and sometimes you will hate them. It's okay to feel your feelings. And, often it's easier when you have a professional counselor to help you understand them – someone special who is here just for you! Love your brother or sister the way they are.
While it is OK to be sad that you have a brother or sister affected by autism it doesn't help to be upset and angry for extended periods of time. Your anger doesn't change the situation; it only makes you unhappier. Remember your Mom and Dad may have those feelings too.
Spend time with your Mom and Dad alone. Doing things together as a family with and without your brother or sister strengthens your family bond. It's OK for you to want alone time. Having a family member with autism can often be very time consuming, and attention grabbing. You need to feel important too. Remember, even if your brother or sister didn't have autism, you would still need alone time with Mom and Dad.
Find an activity you can do with your brother or sister. You will find it rewarding to connect with your brother or sister, even if it is just putting a simple puzzle together. No matter how impaired they may be, doing something together creates a closeness. They will look forward to these shared activities and greet you with a special smile.
5 Tips for Grandparents and Extended Family
Family members have a lot to offer. Each family member is able to offer the things they have learned to do best over time. Ask how you can be helpful to your family.
Your efforts will be appreciated whether it means taking care of the child so that the parents can go out to dinner, or raising money for the special school that helps your family's child. Organize a lunch, a theatre benefit, a carnival, or a card game. It will warm your family's hearts to know that you are pitching in to create support and closeness.
Seek out your own support. If you find yourself having a difficult time accepting and dealing with the fact that your loved one has autism, seek out your own support. Your family may not be able to provide you with that kind of support so you must be considerate and look elsewhere. In this way you can be stronger for them, helping with the many challenges they face.
Be open and honest about the disorder. The more you talk about the matter, the better you will feel. Your friends and family can become your support system…but only if you share your thoughts with them. It may be hard to talk about it at first, but as time goes on it will be easier. In the end your experience with autism will end up teaching you and your family profound life lessons.
Put judgment aside. Consider your family's feelings and be supportive. Respect the decisions they make for their child with autism. They are working very hard to explore and research all options, and are typically coming to well thought out conclusions. Try not to compare children (this goes for typically developing kids as well). Children with autism can be brought up to achieve their personal best.
Learn more about Autism. It affects people of all social and economic standing. There is promising research, with many possibilities for the future. Share that sense of hope with your family while educating yourself about the best ways to help manage this disorder.
Carve out special time for each child. You can enjoy special moments with both typically developing family members and the family member with autism. Yes, they may be different but both children look forward to spending time with you. Children with autism thrive on routines, so find one thing that you can do together that is structured, even if it is simply going to a park for fifteen minutes. If you go to the same park every week, chances are over time that activity will become easier and easier…it just takes time and patience. If you are having a difficult time trying to determine what you can do, ask your family. They will sincerely appreciate that you are making.
First of all, Educate them. Hannah is a known autism advocate and I always call her Zion's greatest therapist. She has been here 24/7 teaching Zion everything a neurotypical child should know. She quizzes him on feelings, and does floor time therapy as well and I do. She knows what autism is and how many children are affected by it. She knows the different sensitivities that a child might have and what helps sooth Zion. Unfortunately, she also knows what triggers him, which just shows how they have developed a normal sibling relationship. I can never express my thankfulness at having a neurotypical child first, before Zion. She has been a great model for him.
Second, Get them involved. Making Hannah an integral part of our Walk Now for Autism team has given her confidence. She knows the other siblings of children on the spectrum in our community. She speaks to her girl scout troop and class about autism. She also befriends other kids at her school who are on the spectrum. She has been a patient teacher and friend to boys in her class who are struggling, just as she has been for Zion.
Finally, Do things for them that have nothing to do with autism. Girl Scouts, piano lessons, mommy and daughter trips (just went to California with her) and dance parties in the living room are some of the things she just loves to do. She comes first during these times. She gets our attention just as much as Zion does.
Sometimes we have let autism become our life to the neglect of everything else. I know every mother understands what I am talking about. But we must make sure our other kids know they are just as special and they have a wonderful and awesome place in our family.
I thought this article from Autism Speaks was really good for the family who has received a diagnosis of autism for their daughter or son.
Fifteen Tips for Your Family
As a result of her work with many families who deal so gracefully with the challenges of autism, Family Therapist, Kathryn Smerling, Ph.D., offers these five tips for parents, five for siblings and five for extended family members:
5 Tips for Parents
Learn to be the best advocate you can be for your child. Be informed. Take advantage
of all the services that are available to you in your community. You will meet practitioners and providers who can educate you and help you. You will gather great strength from the people you meet.
Don't push your feelings away. Talk about them. You may feel both ambivalent and angry. Those are emotions to be expected. It's OK to feel conflicting emotions. Try to direct your anger towards the disorder and not towards your loved ones. When you find yourself arguing with your spouse over an autism related issue, try to remember that this topic is painful for both of you; and be careful not to get mad at each other when it really is the autism that has you so upset and angry.
Try to have some semblance of an adult life. Be careful to not let autism consume every waking hour of your life. Spend quality time with your typically developing children and your spouse, and refrain from constantly talking about autism. Everyone in your family needs support, and to be happy despite the circumstances.
Appreciate the small victories your child may achieve. Love your child and take great pride in each small accomplishment. Focus on what they can do instead of making comparisons with a typically developing child. Love them for who they are rather than what they should be.
Get involved with the Autism community. Don't underestimate the power of “community”. You may be the captain of your team, but you can't do everything yourself. Make friends with other parents who have children with autism. By meeting other parents you will have the support of families who understand your day to day challenges. Getting involved with autism advocacy is empowering and productive. You will be doing something for yourself as well as your child by being proactive.
5 Tips for Brothers & Sisters
Remember that you are not alone! Every family is confronted with life's challenges… and yes, autism is challenging… but, if you look closely, nearly everyone has something difficult to face in their families.
Be proud of your brother or sister. Learn to talk about autism and be open and comfortable describing the disorder to others. If you are comfortable with the topic…they will be comfortable too. If you are embarrassed by your brother or sister, your friends will sense this and it will make it awkward for them. If you talk openly to your friends about autism, they will become comfortable. But, like everyone else, sometimes you will love your brother or sister, and sometimes you will hate them. It's okay to feel your feelings. And, often it's easier when you have a professional counselor to help you understand them – someone special who is here just for you! Love your brother or sister the way they are.
While it is OK to be sad that you have a brother or sister affected by autism it doesn't help to be upset and angry for extended periods of time. Your anger doesn't change the situation; it only makes you unhappier. Remember your Mom and Dad may have those feelings too.
Spend time with your Mom and Dad alone. Doing things together as a family with and without your brother or sister strengthens your family bond. It's OK for you to want alone time. Having a family member with autism can often be very time consuming, and attention grabbing. You need to feel important too. Remember, even if your brother or sister didn't have autism, you would still need alone time with Mom and Dad.
Find an activity you can do with your brother or sister. You will find it rewarding to connect with your brother or sister, even if it is just putting a simple puzzle together. No matter how impaired they may be, doing something together creates a closeness. They will look forward to these shared activities and greet you with a special smile.
5 Tips for Grandparents and Extended Family
Family members have a lot to offer. Each family member is able to offer the things they have learned to do best over time. Ask how you can be helpful to your family.
Your efforts will be appreciated whether it means taking care of the child so that the parents can go out to dinner, or raising money for the special school that helps your family's child. Organize a lunch, a theatre benefit, a carnival, or a card game. It will warm your family's hearts to know that you are pitching in to create support and closeness.
Seek out your own support. If you find yourself having a difficult time accepting and dealing with the fact that your loved one has autism, seek out your own support. Your family may not be able to provide you with that kind of support so you must be considerate and look elsewhere. In this way you can be stronger for them, helping with the many challenges they face.
Be open and honest about the disorder. The more you talk about the matter, the better you will feel. Your friends and family can become your support system…but only if you share your thoughts with them. It may be hard to talk about it at first, but as time goes on it will be easier. In the end your experience with autism will end up teaching you and your family profound life lessons.
Put judgment aside. Consider your family's feelings and be supportive. Respect the decisions they make for their child with autism. They are working very hard to explore and research all options, and are typically coming to well thought out conclusions. Try not to compare children (this goes for typically developing kids as well). Children with autism can be brought up to achieve their personal best.
Learn more about Autism. It affects people of all social and economic standing. There is promising research, with many possibilities for the future. Share that sense of hope with your family while educating yourself about the best ways to help manage this disorder.
Carve out special time for each child. You can enjoy special moments with both typically developing family members and the family member with autism. Yes, they may be different but both children look forward to spending time with you. Children with autism thrive on routines, so find one thing that you can do together that is structured, even if it is simply going to a park for fifteen minutes. If you go to the same park every week, chances are over time that activity will become easier and easier…it just takes time and patience. If you are having a difficult time trying to determine what you can do, ask your family. They will sincerely appreciate that you are making.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Walk Now for Autism 2009
We had a great turn out for the Walk Now for Autism Speaks Day at Jordan Valley Park September 12Th, 2009. Over 600 people came out on the most beautiful walk day we have had in three years (no rain). They took advantage of food, fun, and a resource fair that included vendors like Camp Barnabas, DCO, and the Autism Speaks Store plus many many more. I want to thank all the donors and sponsors and the hard work of the walk committee. You guys are so great!
I also want to express my thankfulness for the friends and family that come out each year to support Zion, our family and all others that are on the autism spectrum. I especially want to thank Lynn Ramsey for making the beautiful quilt that we auctioned off the day of the walk. Also, all of Zion's teachers that come out year after year even though Zion is no longer in their class. We truly are blessed by your kindness and your dedication to this cause and to Zion.
I also want to express my thankfulness for the friends and family that come out each year to support Zion, our family and all others that are on the autism spectrum. I especially want to thank Lynn Ramsey for making the beautiful quilt that we auctioned off the day of the walk. Also, all of Zion's teachers that come out year after year even though Zion is no longer in their class. We truly are blessed by your kindness and your dedication to this cause and to Zion.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Walk Now for Autism 2009
We are gearing up for the Walk Now for Autism at Jordan Valley Park THIS Saturday, September 12th. We are so excited to be walking for our fourth year. We are doing a number of fund raisers this year. We are still selling tickets for our awesome quilt that Mrs. Lynn Ramsey made especially for this event. Tickets can be bought by family members and team members of Zion's Tribe for 1/$1 or 6/$5. We also are selling puzzle pieces at a number of businesses around Ozark. And of course we are taking donations outright through our autism donation page.
Donation Page:
Information on the Walk:
Walk Now for Autism is a family-friendly event so bring the whole family along! There are activities for the children like a bounce house and temporary tatoos, as well as an autism resource fair for families. We'll have light refreshments and entertainment including musical performances and possibly some famous faces!
Walk Now for Autism 2009
Jordan Valley Park
635 E Trafficway St
Springfield, MO 65806
Registration opens: 9:00 a.m.
Resource Fair opens: 9:00 a.m.
Walk Start: 10:00 a.m.
Donation Page:
Information on the Walk:
Walk Now for Autism is a family-friendly event so bring the whole family along! There are activities for the children like a bounce house and temporary tatoos, as well as an autism resource fair for families. We'll have light refreshments and entertainment including musical performances and possibly some famous faces!
Walk Now for Autism 2009
Jordan Valley Park
635 E Trafficway St
Springfield, MO 65806
Registration opens: 9:00 a.m.
Resource Fair opens: 9:00 a.m.
Walk Start: 10:00 a.m.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Shirts
Zion's Tribe Walk Now for Autism Speaks 2009 shirts are being designed right now. If you want an awesome shirt for a great cause...order yours now. This is not the final design. But the only thing that might change is the font. Just leave a comment with your email address and I will get back to you. All money goes to the cost of the shirt. They will be around twenty dollars.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Walk Now for Autism 2009
Join our autism walk team today and start raising money for autism research and for community outreach projects. We are in the middle of our fundraising year with the walk coming up fast.
The walk is September 12th, 2009 at Jordan Valley Park. We also will be holding the quilt raffle right after the walk. If you raise $150 by walk day you receive a free walk day t-shirt. Jason and I will also be selling Zion's Tribe t-shirts soon. So check back with us.
Here is the link to join our team.http://www.walknowforautism.org/springfield/zionstribe
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