Start Smart

12/07/2024

The wait is finally over. Stay tunned for more details

28/07/2023

https://youtu.be/RjTfxo2QNa8

04/07/2023

https://youtu.be/v09BQYzcIsk

18/06/2023

05/06/2023

Brain Drain: How to Help #4

Reduce Confusion: Provide a “mental map!”

We have discussed how the information in our world moves too fast for many people on the spectrum, how they have to sequentially “think about” that which we easily process subconsciously. Given these processing differences, our world (culture) can be chaotic, confusing, and overwhelming for those on the spectrum. We talked about the importance of “breaking it down, slowing it down, and making it clear.” Information needs to be very factual, concrete, and literal.

Another concept that is important in supporting those on the spectrum is providing them a “mental map” to navigate our often confusing world. Many writers who have autism relate that ‘we” (neurotypical people) seem to have a mental map to help us navigate our world. We understand the unwritten rules, invisible relationships, and abstract contexts that provide automatic meaning and direction. People on the spectrum do not have this “mental map” and are lost without it. Consequently, our world is vague, confusing, and unpredictable for them. This creates strong insecurity and anxiety.

“Make life predictable; provide them a mental map!”

1. Predictable routines and visual schedules (written or pictures) are very important. Sequencing out the immediate future makes life more understandable and predictable. Scheduling out the day or portions of the day, and then writing out the schedule (or using pictures) can provide strong predictability to the day. Whether it be a picture schedule, a written checklist, an appointment book, or PDA, sequencing out the immediate future is so important in laying out a “mental map!” Changes can be made more easily when they are presented in advance and made more predictable.

2. For each event on the schedule, prepare in advance by previewing what to expect. For example, what does “going shopping” mean? Where are we going? What will we be doing? How long will it last? What can we buy and not buy? Preparing in advance means previewing what the child can expect to happen, what is expected of him, how long it will occur, and what will happen next. Lay out the sequence of events, what is expected, and what boundaries there are (e.g., only purchase what is on the list). Lay out a “mental map” to provide a clear path. Do not assume anything; make it detailed and crystal clear.


3. Have a backup plan! Not all things in life happen as expected. However, for common snags that frequently occur, have a backup plan! If going to the baseball game could get rained out, then have a “plan B” for what will happen instead. If an event that requires waiting may take longer than expected, have some “filler activity” (child’s toolbox of a few favorite toys) to occupy his time. Anticipate the snags, and be prepared with a backup plan. Identify the backup plans ahead of time, so they are predictable when happening.

You will find that providing a mental map by sequencing out the day, previewing events before they happen, and having back up plans for snags in expectations, you can provide greater understanding and predictability to the child’s world, lessening his anxiety, and building a greater sense of security. As they get older, they will need to learn to script out their own day to provide this “mental map” for them. Start them out early in life, and include them in your “mapping” so you can empower them to do this for themselves as they get older.

“Happy Mapping!”

This series on “cognitive issues in autism” can be found in the blue book, “Autism Discussion Page on the Core Challenges in Autism.”

Amazon.com: Bill Nason

04/06/2023

https://youtu.be/5GDDm1TShVw

29/05/2023

Thank you to team of Our Small Wonders for always highlighting pakistani community.

  In this spotlight Shahira Akram speaks to Zainab Kizilbash about her latest initiative to support autism communities in Pakistan Shahira, you have been working to support inclusion for autistic children and adults for the last eleven years from your work with Pakistan’s first ever inclusive spo...

29/05/2023

We are thrilled to announce that the most awaited inclusive summer camp is back in collaboration with A Ray of Hope, where your child can learn basic life skills in a funfilled way.
Days: Tuesday- Wednesday and Thursday
Time: 10:00am to 12:00pm

Starting from: 4th July

Last date of registration is 15th june.
Hurray up book your slots by calling on numbers mentioned on flyer.

*terms and conditions apply*

20/05/2023

The Challenges of Toothbrushing!

Tooth brushing is very intrusive. When teaching staff to train tooth brushing, we used to have them brush each other's teeth so they see could feel how intrusive it is. When we brush our own teeth, we know how hard to brush, where we feel sensitivity, how to miss our gums, and how fast to brush. To have someone shove a toothbrush into your mouth and brush your teeth, without you controlling it, can be discomforting. Also, many of these children have strong sensory sensitivities. Kids that tend to be tactile defensive (touch) are often orally sensitive. There are a variety of strategies we can try; however, we always need to start by validating that you recognize that the brushing causes discomfort for him and that it is understandable. Then from there, try one or more of the following strategies.

1. Work slowly and talk him through it, telling him what side is next.

2. It often helps to have a set number of strokes you use for each side (top, bottom, side, front, etc.). Like five back and forth strokes. Count out each stroke. Counting gives the child a definite end. This provides predictability to the brushing, allows him to see that is will not last long, as well as provides a distraction.

3. It is best to give the child as much control over the brushing as possible. Brush five strokes on one surface, then pause and wait for the child to let you know when ready for next.

4. Let the child do as much of it as he can. Even if he does it poorly, you can go over it.

5. Throw away your toothbrush; it may be too hard of bristles. Use a soft baby toothbrush or sponge toothbrush call a toothette. These are good if the child has sensitive gums.

6. Experiment with different kinds of toothpaste to find what the child likes the best. Or, don’t use toothpaste at all. Simply use water. Some children will accept a mouth rinse on their brush.

7. Work slowly and pause whenever the child shows discomfort. Continually show the child you are working with them, pausing when discomfort occurs, and letting them control the pace of brushing.

8. Many children with oral sensitivity like to use a battery operated, vibrating toothbrush. The vibration tends to dull their oral sensitivity.

9. Have fun with it. Brush together, or you brush his teeth and let him brush yours.

10. Reinforce the child with a strong reward once the brushing is complete.

11. Put up a chart and let the child get a star for each time he brushes. After he fills up the chart (five squares, one for each star), then he gets a special reward.

12. the child doesn't like the taste of toothpaste, start with just water, no toothpaste. Then slowly put a little on. There are liquid washes that you can substitute for those who do not like paste.

13. For some kids, we use a soft washcloth over our finger to rub the teeth and gums, instead of a toothbrush.

When in doubt, stay supportive and try not to force. I know it takes time, but having someone force a toothbrush around your mouth can be very intrusive.

This series on “mentoring children on the spectrum” can be found in the green book “Autism Discussion Page on Anxiety, Behavior, School and Parenting Strategies.”

Amazon.com: Bill Nason

17/05/2023

We are thrilled to announce the launch of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) team in Pakistan. We recognize that there is a lack of support for children with special needs in the country, particularly those who are homeschooled. That's why we are excited to offer a personalized and tailored approach to education through our IEP team.

Our team consists of dedicated professionals who are passionate about helping children with special needs reach their full potential. We understand that each child is unique, and we believe that an individualized approach to education is the key to success.

Through regular meetings and ongoing support, our team will work together to develop and implement an IEP that addresses the specific needs of each child. We will provide guidance and resources to support the child's learning and development, and we will collaborate closely with parents and caregivers to ensure that everyone is on the same page.

We recognize that launching an IEP team in Pakistan may present some challenges, but we are committed to making it work. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to receive a high-quality education, regardless of their needs or circumstances. With our IEP team, we are excited to help children with special needs in Pakistan thrive and achieve their full potential.

We are just a call away.

11/05/2023

Stay tunned for more details