Provider Spotlight: Whole Child Nutrition

Provider Spotlight: Whole Child Nutrition

Excerpts taken from Whole Child Nutrition

Kimberly Jaumot, MS, RD is a child nutritionist with extensive work with children of varying needs. With a focus on making small, practical changes to help children have success with food, Kimberly believes that nutrition is an essential component of overall wellbeing.

One of Kimberly’s passions is working with children with sensory processing disorder and on the autism spectrum, understanding the unique challenges that they face when it comes to food. She has experience working with families to develop personalized nutrition plans that are tailored to their child’s specific needs. Kimberly also has experience working with children with Down syndrome, recognizing the important role that nutrition plays in supporting their development and growth.

Through her work with families, Kimberly emphasizes the importance of making small changes to promote long-term success. She understands that each child’s needs are unique, and works closely with families to develop achievable goals that support their child’s health and wellbeing.

With Kimberly’s guidance, families can feel empowered to make positive changes in their child’s nutrition, which can have a significant impact on their overall health and happiness.

Whole Child Nutrition offers nutrition guidance to children with many different challenges including: autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, Down syndrome and sensory processing disorders.

To contact Kimberly:

Email: kimberly@wholechildnutrition.com

Call: 973-567-3239

8 Winter Sensory Activities for Children with Autism

8 Winter Sensory Activities for Children with Autism

posted on Hopebridge

With the winter solstice around the corner, many people are already in holiday mode and preparing for a new year. Some children may not notice or understand the change of seasons, others may be overwhelmed by it, and others may embrace it completely. No matter which side your child falls on, it’s a good time of year to incorporate new activities and learning experiences into their everyday play.

Whether you need ideas for children who are home for winter break or you just want a few easy ways to spice up the season in your back pocket, our Hopebridge Autism Therapy Centers came up with a list of BCBA-approved, autism-friendly sensory activities to introduce children to the sights, scents and sounds of the season.

At Hopebridge, we believe in the magic of learning through play. In addition to making it a key part of our ABA therapy programs, it’s important to bring play to life at home, too. These at-home projects are intended to provide entertainment, education and engagement all at the same time.

These activities are great for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and sensory processing disorder (SPD), but they can be exciting for neurotypical individuals, too! From toddlers to tweens, these experiments have the opportunity to strengthen self-regulation and help them cope with sensory intolerances.

Before you get started, remember that the best part of sensory activities is the engagement between you and your child. Play alongside them, talk about what each of you are doing and most importantly, have fun with it!

Provider Spotlight: Brave Wings Academy

Provider Spotlight: Brave Wings Academy

Brave Wings Academy is a strength-based therapeutic preschool program designed specifically for autistic children. Our center-based program is offered Monday – Friday 9:00 – 3:00 in Fairfield, NJ. We provide 1:1 instruction with a technician and weekly parent training. Our curriculum prepares kids for future learning and each student receives daily services which can include speech, feeding and occupational therapy, self-help/independence training, sensory play, music, art, yoga and so much more! Our program focuses on establishing sensory and communicative supports while teaching self-advocacy skills. And our program is covered by most insurance plans.

Brave Wings Academy: 155 Passaic Avenue – Suite 150 Fairfield, NJ 07004 (973)800-8515 / info@bravewingstherapy.com

Empathy in every detail: How Sensory-Friendly Home Spaces Enhance Emotional Well-Being in Autism

Empathy in every detail: How Sensory-Friendly Home Spaces Enhance Emotional Well-Being in Autism

Empathy in home design transcends aesthetics and functionality, embodying a thoughtful approach to nurturing well-being and tranquility. It implies crafting spaces that resonate with the intricate nuances of an individual’s sensory preferences, creating an environment where comfort meets necessity. This sentiment is particularly essential in formulating sensory-friendly havens that cater to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

ASD, characterized by varying degrees of sensory sensitivities, affects 1 in 36 children, according to the latest study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Therefore, developing empathetic home spaces isn’t merely an architectural endeavor but a profound act of understanding and accommodating the sensory intricacies that individuals with autism navigate daily. This person-centered approach ensures their living spaces are not just a shelter, but a therapeutic sanctuary that nurtures emotional well-being through every carefully considered detail.

Understanding Sensory Sensitivities in Autism

The Sensory Spectrum in Autism

Navigating the world with autism often involves traversing a unique sensory spectrum, which can encapsulate two contrasting experiences:

  • Hypersensitivity: A heightened state of sensory reception, where individuals may find themselves overwhelmed by loud noises or uncomfortable with certain textures. This heightened sensitivity can sometimes transform a bustling environment into a whirlpool of discomfort.
  • Hyposensitivity: A diminished sensory response that may manifest as a craving for stronger stimuli. It could be an increased tolerance or even desire for experiences involving pressure, vibration, or other tactile sensations. In this case, finding peace might mean seeking out these intense sensory interactions that others might find too extreme.

Emotional Impacts of Sensory Overstimulation

For those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), sensory overstimulation can be more than just a fleeting discomfort. It often acts as a precursor to heightened stress, anxiety, and in some cases, full-blown meltdowns. A sudden blast of music or a flash of bright light might not just be a minor nuisance, but a profound emotional trigger.

Studies, like that published in the National Library of Medicine have shown a direct correlation between sensory overwhelm and compromised mental well-being in ASD individuals. This isn’t merely about external disturbances; it’s about the internal tumult that arises from a barrage of sensory input, impacting emotional equilibrium and daily functionality.

The Cornerstones of Sensory-Friendly Home Design

The Role of Colors and Visuals

Colors and visuals wield a remarkable influence in shaping perceptions and evoking emotions. From the serene embrace of pastels to the bold statements of vibrant shades, their role is profound and pervasive.

  • Color Psychology in Detail: The hues and patterns surrounding individuals with autism can profoundly influence their mental state. Gentle tones like blues and greens can act as calming agents, nurturing tranquility amidst neurological whirlwinds. Conversely, bright reds or erratic patterns might amplify stress, igniting sensory overload. Thus, a carefully curated visual environment can be a vital tool for fostering emotional equilibrium in those with autism.
  • Spatial Arrangements: Open spaces can evoke freedom, while cozy nooks offer security and solace. Creating a harmony between a clutter-free zone and a personalized environment not only facilitates comfort but also significantly enhances emotional well-being, nurturing both independence and tranquility.

Lighting and Its Nuances

Lighting holds nuanced significance in autism, influencing mood and comfort levels. Adapting brightness and hue can forge a supportive, serene space, alleviating sensory sensitivities and promoting integral welfare.

  • Natural vs. Artificial Light: The therapeutic embrace of natural sunlight can act as a serene anchor, promoting harmony and stability. On the flip side, the flickering and buzz of fluorescent lighting might stir irritation or discomfort. Hence, carefully selecting lighting sources can be a cornerstone in creating a nurturing and soothing environment for individuals with autism.
  • Tailored Lighting Solutions: Customizable elements such as dimmers and colored lights offer a personalized touch, allowing for an environment that resonates with tranquility. Moreover, soft ambient lighting serves as a gentle caress to the senses, ushering in a calming and harmonious atmosphere that nurtures both mind and spirit.

Acoustics and Sound Management

Mastering acoustics is key in autism care, shaping serene environments. Strategic sound management, incorporating both innovative materials and nature’s buffers, cultivates a tranquil space that nurtures emotional stability and peace.

  • Buffering External Noises: Utilizing soundproofing materials and sound-absorbing elements enhances tranquility, providing a haven from auditory overstimulation. Incorporating natural sound barriers like trees or outdoor fountains not only dampens unwanted noises but also introduces soothing auditory textures, promoting emotional health in both indoor and outdoor environments.
  • Incorporating Beneficial Sounds: Acoustic engineering goes beyond muting; it’s about curating therapeutic soundscapes, especially for autism. Research indicates that soothing elements like white noise or nature sounds can significantly alleviate stress. Tailoring soundscapes to individual preferences, thereby, not only fosters a calming ambiance but also empowers them with a sense of control and comfort in their surroundings.

Tactile Experience and Furnishings

Thoughtfully selected furnishings offer sensory comfort, supporting individuals with varied touch sensitivities, and nurturing a harmonious environment of solace.

  • Material Selection: Opting for tactile-friendly fabrics like soft cotton and plush textures extends a gentle invitation to comfort. On the contrary, steering clear of rough wool and certain synthetics prevents sensory discomfort. Material selection thus becomes a guiding compass, steering mental well-being through every touch.
  • Furniture Designs: Embracing rounded edges over sharp corners not only enhances safety but also fosters a sense of ease. Prioritizing stability and predictability with robust, grounded furniture pieces offers comfort and a reliable environment, vital for nurturing emotional well-being in individuals on the autism spectrum.

Evaluating the Transformative Effects of Sensory-friendly Design

Emotional and Psychological Well-being

  • Stress Reduction: Minimized sensory-triggered meltdowns translate to improved emotional well-being. A 2021 study highlights how tailored environments lead to enhanced sleep quality and overall relaxation. By curating spaces that cater to sensory needs, a tangible reduction in stress-related challenges is achieved, fostering a peaceful living experience.
  • Boosted Social Interaction: Creating comfortable environments serves as a catalyst for improved interactions. A positive feedback loop is established, wherein enhanced social interactions not only enrich experiences but also contribute to the cultivation of more frequent and meaningful social connections.

Fostering Independence and Skill Growth

  • Self-regulation Techniques: Exploring the realm of fostering independence and skill growth in autism unravels the power of self-regulation techniques. Individuals learn to tailor environments to align with their sensory needs, fostering autonomy. Embracing tools and technology aids in refining sensory processing, enabling them to navigate the world with increased confidence and competence.
  • Skill and Confidence Building: In the context of emotional state in autism, skill and confidence building emerge as essential pillars. Mastering one’s personal space fosters a heightened sense of self-worth and agency. By promoting the exploration of novel activities and embracing challenges, individuals are encouraged to step beyond their comfort zones, cultivating resilience and a robust foundation of self-assuredness.

Physical Health Benefits

  • Improved Sleep Patterns: Crafting optimal sensory environments plays a pivotal role in facilitating restful sleep. The interconnectedness is evident: enhanced sleep ripples positively, bolstering overall health and consequently, contributing to the elevation of emotional balance in individuals on the autism spectrum.

Enriched Learning Environments

  • Optimal Sensory Stimulation for Learning: Within the framework of emotional well-being in autism, the concept of enriched learning environments takes center stage. Striking the delicate equilibrium between sensory inputs that foster concentration and those that potentially distract is crucial. Strategies such as using ambient noise machines to enhance focus and incorporating tactile tools for kinesthetic learners underscore the intricate art of providing optimal sensory stimulation for effective learning experiences.
  • Holistic Development: The canvas of emotional condition in autism is painted with the strokes of enriched learning environments. These spaces serve as catalysts for holistic development, nurturing cognitive, motor, and social skills. A sensory-friendly reading nook, for instance, becomes a vibrant hub where language acquisition flourishes, illustrating how tailored spaces empower individuals to embark on a comprehensive journey of growth.

Enhanced Family Dynamics and Relationships

  • Shared Understanding and Bonding: A sensory-friendly home acts as an arena where siblings and parents alike glean insights into sensory sensitivities and needs. This ripple effect extends beyond, nurturing empathy, patience, and forging profound familial bonds, amplifying the enriching journey of growth for all members involved.
  • Positive Feedback Loop: Creating a comfortable environment initiates a positive feedback loop: alleviating stress within the family, fostering more positive interactions, and nurturing robust, enduring bonds. This symbiotic relationship between well-being and relationships reinforces the delicate balance that harmonizes within the familial ecosystem.

The Bottomline

Advocating for empathetic design across all spaces is crucial to enhance emotional well-being in autism. This commitment goes beyond homes, extending to public and private environments, fostering inclusivity and addressing diverse sensory needs. A collective effort towards creating such spaces not only improves the lives of individuals with autism but also contributes to more compassionate and harmonious societies.

Looking forward, the evolution of sensory-friendly design is marked by technological advancements and innovations. From smart sensors to adaptive environments, these developments hold great promise in tailoring spaces to individual sensitivities. Yet, awareness and education remain essential to drive lasting change. By nurturing understanding and empathy, we can build a future where sensory-friendly environments are the norm, ushering in a world that champions the well-being of everyone.

Book Review: Choppy Wow Wow

Book Review: Choppy Wow Wow

written by Ron Italiano

Excerpts taken from website

Choppy Wow Wow is a 30-page picture book written by Ron Italiano, and illustrated by Jessica Rogers. Choppy Wow Wow is a special dog with a special purpose, searching for his forever home. He learns the things that make us different are what make us special. It is playfully illustrated and readers of all ages will enjoy this heartwarming tale of a helper dog and a young boy who form a unique connection to start their life adventure.

Ron wrote this book as the first in a series intended to promote inclusion, enjoyment of reading, and celebrating differences. It is his hope that these books will also help special needs parents navigate some of the parenting challenges that we all experience.

 

Teaching Social Skills and Navigating the Playground

Teaching Social Skills and Navigating the Playground

written by Annette Nunez, posted on Autism Parenting Magazine

Recess is often thought of as a break for both teachers and children. It is a time for teachers to take a breather, eat a snack, go to the bathroom, check emails, etc. As for children, recess is seen as a time for them to “let some energy out.”

However, after spending ten years observing thousands of children play at various recesses at multiple schools, I have come to the conclusion that recess is the most important part of a child’s day.

Play is essential to social skill development and is instrumental in helping children understand their social world. When children come together and play, they form a peer culture that is uniquely their own.

Through play, children are forced to navigate their social world independently and develop their interpersonal skills and social knowledge.

Parent’s Guide to Autism Diagnosis

Parents’ Guide: So Your Child Has Been Diagnosed With Autism…

written by the team at elemy

So your child has been diagnosed with autism. What is the next step?

If you’ve just learned that your child has autism, it can be an incredibly daunting and confusing time. You likely have a lot of questions about what autism is, what it means for your child and for your family, and how to move forward. This guide will help you get started.

What Is Autism?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains that autism — or more specifically, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) — is a developmental disability. This categorization can refer to a number of long-term (perhaps lifelong) medical conditions. These disorders may occur due to an issue with the formation of regions of the brain that control language, learning, behavior, or physical movement.

In the case of autism, people who have ASD will have challenges relating to their behavior, communication, and social skills. Physically, people who have autism bear no differences to those who don’t have the disorder, but they will learn, behave, communicate, and interact in ways that are different (sometimes subtly, sometimes overtly) than those around them.

People with autism can be severely challenged by their different abilities to learn, think, and problem-solve, or they might be incredibly gifted. Some people on the autism spectrum need a lot of assistance to live a functioning and happy life; others are more self-sufficient.

Today, several other conditions that traditionally were diagnosed separately fall under the umbrella of the autism spectrum disorder diagnosis. In addition to autistic disorder, a doctor or specialist will also look for signs for Asperger syndrome and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), among others. All these conditions fall under the category of autism spectrum disorder.

Autism Resources & Help (For Parents, Teachers & More)

Autism Resources & Help (For Parents, Teachers & More)

written by the team at Elemy, posted on elemy.com

For years, we’ve been told that it takes a village to raise a happy, healthy, and well-adjusted child. When that person has autism, the need for community is even more acute.

Children with autism rely on their network to help them navigate the world around them. The more you know about the disorder, how it works, and how others cope, the better you can help your family adjust to this new reality.

Some resources for autism apply to anyone who wants to learn more, but there are some that target specific audiences. In this guide, we’ll highlight resources made just for:

  • Parents. Learn more about how autism touches children, how parents navigate critical systems, and what you can do to help your child.
  • Teachers. Find out more about your roles and responsibilities in the classroom, and learn more about how you can support your students, no matter where they fall on the spectrum.
  • Allies. Grandparents, siblings, and friends can also help children with autism, and plenty of resources exist to help you do just that.

Autism Acceptance Not Awareness: A Perspective Shift is Needed

Autism Acceptance Not Awareness: A Perspective Shift is Needed

written by Nancy Doyle, published on Forbes Magazine 

Unlike some other awareness campaigns Autism Awareness month is not universally liked by the Autistic community. If you follow the #ActuallyAutistic hashtag on social media, or any of the prominent advocates, you will most likely encounter posts throughout the month of April on this subject. I encourage you to read it direct from the source and learn the history that has created so much friction around this annual event. This video from Autistic advocate Sarinah O’Donoghue on the BBC sums it up well.

A large part of the problem is that awareness has not proven effective at improving the lives of Autistic people. In fact, these awareness drives often lead to the widespread dissemination of misinformation and outdated perspectives, causing further difficulties for people in the community. With no one ensuring the accuracy of the content that gets shared we frequently see harmful myths getting more traction than the truth, and non-autistic voices speaking over Autistic ones. Here’s a link to an article signposting Autistic AAC writers (augmentative and alternative communication devices) and here’s a link to a blog explaining why some Autistic people find Autism Awareness Month triggering and traumatic.

I’ve watched the April Autism season unfold with a flurry of talks, webinars, articles and social media. I’ve kept relatively quiet, listening to voices in the Autism community and considering how best to amplify the sentiments in my writing. Here’s my advice.

Provider Spotlight: Helping Hands Family

Provider Spotlight – Helping Hands Family

Helping Hands Family provides Quality ABA Therapy

Helping Hands Family is a group of ABA Therapy Clinics in PA, NJ and NY. We use the American Medical Association endorsed Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) practice to better the lives of our children. Our goal is to help parents and referral sources navigate the path to starting therapy and to foster continuous improvement over the course of treatment.

Choose Helping Hands Family because:

  • Treatment plans are tailored to each child’s individual needs
  • All our therapists are Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) or Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs)
  • Our clinician training exceeds industry standards
  • We contract with many insurance companies that pay for ABA services
  • 0ur state-of-the-art clinics, are filled with learning materials and toys to keep children motivated and engaged
  • We care about supporting the parents through this process

The team that’s always on the side of children

We are a collaborative, highly skilled and experienced team that loves what we do. Together, we build patient-focused, individualized therapy plans that we administer with care, compassion and consistency.

In addition, our clinical team leaders provide exceptional guidance and mentorship to all of our clinicians to ensure the most productive therapeutic experience as well as a positive environment for everyone.

Find out more about how our highly trained team can nurture amazing achievement in your child.

"The various psycho-educational testing Dr. Liz conducted on our son gave us critical clues about where his learning strengths and weaknesses lie so that his needs could be better addressed at home and school. Moreover, because of their warm, kindhearted personalities, both Dr. Liz and her associate, Stephanie, formed an immediate bond with my son. He eagerly looks forward to his weekly therapy sessions. We are so lucky Dr. Liz came into our family's lives when she did! For stressed-out families trying to help their children as best they can, she is a calming voice of reason!"
- Julie C.
"Dr. Matheis has a remarkable ability to understand the unique needs of her patients and address them constructively. She builds strong, meaningful relationships with patients and their families, encouraging trust and collaboration. When working with my son who struggles with autism-related anxiety, she created an environment in which he was able to calm down and open up to her in ways I had not seen before. She was able to reach him and helped him work through his crisis/problem. Most importantly, she empowered him to move forward."
- N.L.
"Dr. Matheis is amazing. She has tremendous resources and loads of energy. She is not willing to accept anything less than the most effective results for her clients. She made me feel as if my son was her top priority throughout the entire process. I would, without reservation, give her my highest recommendations.  Thank you, Dr. Matheis!"
- Anonymous
"Dr. Matheis has an amazing ability to read kids and connect with them. She has been an invaluable resource for our family over the past several years and has helped us with everything from educational consulting, to uncovering diagnoses as well as family therapy. Working with Dr. Matheis never feels clinical and most importantly, our children love and trust her. We can not thank you enough Dr. Liz!"
- Anonymous
"My teenage son had been seeing Dr. Matheis through his senior year of high school, as he was only diagnosed with ADHD at 16 years old.  Dr. Matheis came highly recommended from our pediatrician and she has done wonders for our son as well as our family, navigating new ways for him to deal with his diagnosis without the use of medication.  She taught him ways to organize himself and even when something did not work for him, she patiently continued teaching him new ways to keep himself on track.  She has also helped us as parents to understand how his mind works so that we did not continue to blame his lack of focus on him, rather on his unique way of thinking.  Thank you Dr. Matheis!!!!"
- LG
"Dr. Liz is the best! Our family was directed to her by our Pediatrician to assist with figuring out severe mood changes, severe anxiety, strange new fears and food aversion that had come onto one of our children literally overnight. After just a couple of visits, she suggested that the issues may actually be rooted in a physical issue and suggested we immediately take our child to be swabbed for strep, because Dr. Liz suspected PANDAS (a pediatric autoimmune disorder brought on by strep). The same Pediatrician that suggested Dr. Liz would not do the swab (they do not believe in PANDAS and we no longer go there) but I took my child to my doctor who did the swab and it was positive for strep. When our child went on antibiotics, within 24 hours all symptoms went away and our child was back :-) Dr. Liz then recommended a PANDAS specialist who helped us and our child is in complete remission and is happy and healthy. We are incredibly grateful to Dr. Liz for her knowledge of all things, even the most remote and unusual and for helping us so much! Thank you!"
- Anonymous
"The various psycho-educational testing Dr. Liz conducted on our son gave us critical clues about where his learning strengths and weaknesses lie so that his needs could be better addressed at home and school. Moreover, because of their warm, kindhearted personalities, both Dr. Liz and her associate, Stephanie, formed an immediate bond with my son. He eagerly looks forward to his weekly therapy sessions. We are so lucky Dr. Liz came into our family's lives when she did! For stressed-out families trying to help their children as best they can, she is a calming voice of reason!"
- Anonymous
"Thank you, Dr. Liz. Although we have told you countless times, it will never feel enough. You have listened when J could barely speak and continued to listen when he was sad, angry and confused. You've challenged him and directed us in our roles as parents. You've helped J face his fears while the list evolved and changed, and yet you've stayed committed to 'the course.' We pray that your children realize that time away from them is spent helping children learn and that vulnerability is a sign of strength and bravery."
- June I
"My son was admitted to an Ivy League school when only 2 years ago, you assessed him and saw his struggles, his Dyslexia. We are grateful that he no longer has to carry that deep feeling of inadequacy or shame that must have kept him so self conscious and from reaching his potential. He has the PERFECT program for him. He has A's in high math and economics. He became a Merit Scholar, a Boys State legislature, the HEAD captain of the football team and help a job ALL while studying and managing his classes and disability. I am PROUD of you, a young doctor, who knows and sees the vulnerability of children and helps them recognize "it's NO big deal" God bless."
- Anonymous

Learn More About Dr. Liz!

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513 W Mt Pleasant Ave, Ste 212,
​Livingston, NJ 07039