Special Needs Parenting:Feeling Like A Square Peg That Doesn’t Fit In The Round Hole

Parenting a child with special needs to adulthood has produced ambivalent feelings. Bringing up a child with Aspergers syndrome and another son 22 months his senior who presented with medical challenges has proven to be a double-edged sword. On one side of the sword, I have felt heartbreak, grief for the child I dreamed of before they were born that did not become the child that I imagined they would be. I experienced  fear for my child’s future, even feeling like an incompetent boob at times unworthy to be their parent. I observed other children develop on an age appropriate timetable, A timetable which my child lagged behind. 
On the other side of the sword, my experiences have provided me with a gift. Despite the challenges associated with parenting special needs children. My children, my husband and I have grown and unified together. The children I imagined they would be became the child they were supposed to be. They became the children that I would not only learn to accept, but the children that I would embrace , love and admire. I learned through them  that every human on the planet has imperfections which represent our humanness and is not indicative of being broken.

They are my teacher as well as me being theirs. Resultant from being a square peg versus a round one, I place less importance on materialism and more on the spiritual beauty of this journey called life.. Together, as a family, we have learned the meaning of team work. When we take two steps backwards, it is just that: two steps backwards. When this occurs, I have learned to get back up on my feet and work as an interdependent team and carry on. For all of the steps our family has taken backwards, we have taken strides forward as well. Like a flock of geese, when one of us feels defeated, another steps forward and heads the flock until the tired and defeated member regains their strength. Challenges do not only tear people apart, but can bring them together as well. It is during times of strife that humans learn how strong they really are.
I appreciate milestones and developmental growth that neurotypical parents take for granted. I have developed a level of social awareness for mankind and society at large that I never would have possessed without children with special needs. I gained an awareness of human fallibility through my children. I developed a level emotional strength and perseverance by taking care and advocating for my children that is akin with a mother lion baring her claws to protect her cubs. During moments when I felt as though I could not go on, as with the mother lion, I expressed a sense of determination and drive to protect my children with an energy that was extracted from an innate need to protect and teach my young and fierce love for them.
My experiences have provided me membership into a club that I did not choose to join. The club for special families. I coined my imaginary club, the club for special needs families because parenting special needs children affects the whole family. Children, parents, siblings extended family members struggle with issues related to living in a special needs family. It affects the continuity, belief systems and most importantly priorities that the familial unit is composed of. My life (our lives) have been changed forever. As I mentioned earlier, our lives have been fraught with uncertainty and trepidation. However all challenges that change our lives are not always negative.
I have grown and learned to stop and smell the roses. I have learned to believe in the unbelievable. I have learned the meaning of faith, an intangible yet ever present force in my life. Faith has taught me to hope, dream, persevere and believe in that which is not visible yet lives in our heart.

We may not be able to physically touch or see faith in a tangible sense.  We sure can feel it renew our very soul and provide us with the energy to trudge forward.Look hard enough however and you will witness reminders of why having faith is important  everywhere. Reminders that instill hope when we feel hopeless, that show us the altruism and good in the world when we feel despondent and alone. It is alive in kind acts of strangers, a kind note we suddenly receive or a developmental milestone met in our children just at the moment when we want to throw in the towel and give up overwhelmed with feelings of futility. Faith is renewed like a surge of light in our heart through smiles from a stranger when we are sad, a compliment when we feel insignificant, even the person who pays for a meal for the person behind them at a drive through. These acts remind us to hope, believe, never give up and yes, instill faith in us. I could provide more examples but I am sure you get the idea that I am attempting to convey. All of these acts of kindness, miracles witnessed renew our spirit, or our faith if you will.

  We sure can rely on it in times of strife. Instead of looking into the future and worrying about what will be, I look into the past and look at what was and what is. Hence, providing myself with a window that allows me to reflect and focus on the strides my now adult children have made, rather then what is not and may not be large bursts of growth. I remind myself to look at the baby steps for everything will not occur on my wishful timetable. It will occur in a time frame that is right and works for my kids. Coining an old phrase… Focus on the past only long enough to learn from it for the past is gone. Do not worry about the future for it has not occurred yet and is unknown. Focus on the present for the present is a gift.
I have changed my perception of our family presenting as abnormal, perhaps being less then the neurotypical family down the road, to creating a new normal. A normal that works for us. Rather then perceiving us as the square peg attempting to fit in a round hole, I now perceive us as merely the square peg. The square peg will only fit in a round hole if it is re – designed. I now choose to perceive the square peg as the peg who stands out from the others, is different yet not damaged. I now walk tall and use our experiences to make a difference in the world. Being different, propels us with the force of a cannonball shot from a cannon to create a new normal and a life of acceptance and hope. We are different yes, just like every other human being. Different does not connote inferior, merely marching to the beat of our own drum.
I possess a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology with a minor in sociology. I have my Masters degree in Educational Foundations as well. I have worked as a professional educator, done public speaking engagements and more. Although my academic and professional background provided me with information and experience within the special needs field, It did not provide me with a window into what being a special needs parent entailed. One cannot Google Aspergers Syndrome and profess to be an expert. I had to live it. I have learned more from special needs parenting then I ever learned in the classroom.

The college that I attended to be a special needs parent is called the College Of Live And Learn. ALL lessons within the College Of Live And Learn are performed as on the job training. Training and experiences that provided me with the drive to go back to college with the ultimate goal of making a dent in society at large. Thus, creating a world that embraces neuro- diversity . A world that not merely notes the deficits in people, but appreciates and gains an awareness of the strengths thatevery human being, challenged or not possesses.
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Mari Nosal M.Ed., CECE

tinyurl.com/kdspqy9

About the author: My son had experienced many school , behavioral , motor skill and processing issues before he was diagnosed with Aspergers Syndrome.

During this process I realized that a lot of parents were going through the same thing. I wanted to make sure that no other parent would go through that experience feeling as though they were walking in the dark.

Considering my experience in the human services and educational fields, I decided to write a book, “Ten Commandments of Interacting with Kids on the Autism Spectrum”. tinyurl.com/kdspqy9

If you would like to know more regarding my inspiring journey which led me to become an autism advocate, perform international interviews via internet and pod casts. I am a published author and blogger. I can be contacted for public speaking engagements and book presentations in Massachusetts and surrounding areas. I am also available for podcast and radio interviews. For more information, please private message Mari Nosal via LinkedIn .

If You enjoyed this article. Check out more like it in my books at Amazon.com  tinyurl.com/kdspqy9

Mari Nosal, M.Ed

Mari Nosal, M.Ed., CECE received her B.A. in psychology and her Masters degree in Educational Foundations from Curry College. She spent years as a school age coordinator, blogger and author, and has over 30 years’ experience within the human services and education fields. She has had special needs articles published in several magazines. Mari is a published author whose special needs Autism and Asperger related books can be found on Amazon.com Barnes and Noble and Createspace. She is certified by the Department of Early Childhood Education as a lead preschool teacher, an infant and toddler teacher, and site coordinator qualified to manage school age programs. Mari also works with Non Profits, schools, and society at large as well. She conducts public speaking engagements that provide them with the tools and knowledge to help special needs children, predominantly autism and Asperger (with her specialty being Asperger Syndrome) to become as independent and successful as possible. Mari has presented  workshops to staff, management teams, and parent groups in the southeastern Mass. area and worldwide via Zoom, Skype ,pod cast and more.44444444444444. She offers tips on curriculum development and behavior modification within the classroom and through in-services. She is certified by the Department of Early Childhood Education as a lead preschool teacher, an infant and toddler teacher, and site coordinator qualified to manage school age programs. Inquiries regarding availability for Workshops, Public Speaking Events, motivational speaking and training can be arranged via messaging on LinkedIn to inquire regarding speaking fees. 

http://tinyurl.com/kdspqy9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

All Children On The Autism Spectrum Become Adults With Autism; Is Society Equipped ?

 

Summer days are waning and will soon be replaced by the crisp fall air. The outdoor temperature will gradually become cooler and we will wistfully recall flip flops, shorts and trips to the beach where we basked in the summer heat traded for falling leaves that promise to leave our trees bare, winter coats, snow shovels and boots Transition is a word that can send a chill that cuts like a sharpened knife through the soul of a parent who has a special needs child aging out of the system and preparing to enter the world of the unknown, like the chill of winter that sends shivers through our bones .

The world of adulthood. It is a milestone that resonates with any parent whose child has or is preparing to leave the cocoon of supports and services offered to them in childhood. As with changing seasons, we must be equipped with proper support in order to survive. In order to physically survive the transition of seasons, we must possess supportive items such as heat and winter coats to function at a healthy level. In order to survive the transition through life, we must have the support of a village. A societal village of sorts’ that is necessary for successful transitioning. As one would not venture out into a chilly day without proper gear to keep them warm, a supportive metaphorical village is required as our children venture on into an unknown world called adulthood to assist them in achieving successful assimilation, mastery and  independence.

Suddenly, I.E.P. ‘s , the I.D.E.A. laws that ensure a child educational rights and support services do not pertain to them anymore. Children who do not qualify for disability age out of parents insurance. Transition is moving from one stage of life, childhood, to another, adulthood. The child who received supports in school ,is sent out into the stage of transition to fend for themselves upon graduation. It is akin with providing no safety harness and asking a child and their family to scaleMount Everest.Children who possess average or above average intelligence leave school with no support groups, transitional services and more with a mere “good luck, you will do fine”.

Unfortunately, this is the norm for transitioning teens and young adults. . True, many strides have been made in the past decade. The recognition that Aspergians have receptive and pragmatic speech deficits although their expressive vocabulary appears large has fueled the development of speech therapy programs for children.I am thrilled that children are identified with Aspergers syndrome and high functioning forms of autism now at much earlier ages. Through earlier intervention, these children will be equipped with better developed compensatory strategies in preparation for when they are older. At such a young age their synapses are much more malleable as well.

One thing has not changed however since my son was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome. The support for transitioning teens and young adults aging out of the system is miniscule to say the least. After years spent fighting and advocating for services and receiving supports, the cocoon of support is gone. The game plan changes, the cocoon opens up and your child emerges as a metaphorical butterfly who must spread their wings.As transition to adulthood occurs, you must attempt to leave the childhood supports and start researching and advocating for new services. It is enough to cause a parent to pull out their hair until they are bald and babble incomprehensibly while displaying a whole body encompassing motor tick.

During this time period, remember how being proactive propelled you to advocate for services when your child was young. This may assist you in mustering up the energy to experience it again at the adult level. You did it before, you can do it again. The difference is that you will not or should not be the only advocate. You must teach your adult or soon to be adult child to self advocate by your side while modeling. AVANTI……moving forward from childhood to adult goals.

Diagnosis and programs for higher functioning individuals on the spectrum that promote earlier identification, social, remediated and compensatory skills programs have blossomed over the last decade for sure. Unfortunately, the majority are for children. This is a great boon as higher functioning individuals on the spectrum used to remain unidentified throughout life culminating in not living their lives to their full potential.I surmise that because diagnosis generally occurs in childhood, autism is associated with children. Unfortunately, autistic children become autistic adults. With the increase in identification we are about to have an influx of adults including special needs adults that have already reached the age of consent who will and are in need of services. When individuals on the spectrum become adults, a large hole does not merely open up in the ground, engulfing them so they disappear from the face of the earth. They are our children, spouses, co – workers and friends who exist side by side within society by nuerotypicals.

The majority of individuals on the autism spectrum take longer to develop socially, emotionally, neurologically and biologically then typically developing peers. Theymay turn the magic age of eighteen and age out of programs and services but their mind and body may be a 1/2 decade or more behind that chronological age. It is my assessment, that it is economically feasible to offer programs for people on the spectrum and their families throughout the lifespan versus the societal and emotion costs incurred resultant from no intervention. Kids transitioning into adulthood with no transitional supports whatsoever may doom them to a life of homelessness, dependence on families, self medicationi.e. alcohol and drugs, leading a life where they do not even come close to achieving goals in life that they possess the capabilities for. My statement may sound dire but working in the substance abuse field in the past, many individuals were found to be self medicating due to undiagnosed mental health issues and learning disabilities. When identification occurred and supports were in place, ie counseling, support groups etc. the success rate of staying drug or alcohol free skyrocketed. In my opinion, this is a win win situation for all. 1

The positive outcome of offering training and supports, is a societal system not strained by criminal recidivism, underemployed people on the autism spectrum and individuals who require public assistance due to being poorly equipped to function in the adult world. With the right interventions, individuals will become independent adults who instead contribute to society as proudstax payers We have a wide and vast group of widely diagnosed individuals who are about to enter adulthood. Sadly, the present state of affairs has caused some parents with transitional kids and older on the spectrum to stop working and teach the skills to the best of their abilities to their kids that society does not offer.Autism Speaks funded research in 2014. It found that adults on the spectrum who have jobs that encourage independence showed a greater sense of self esteem anbd increase in positive behaviors, skills and activities of daily living. 

Unfortunately, without skills training and support finding sustainable employment for people on the spectrum is not an easy task. A 2012 study in the journal of pediatrics found that, seven years after graduating from high school, one in three young adults on the spectrum had no college or vocational education or paid job experience.Society, autistic children do become autistic adults. They do not merely disappear from the face of the earth when aging out of the system. From transitional programs in high school for kids who fall between the cracks and do not qualify for birth to 21 programs ,to supplying family transitional support, mentors, job coaches, social groups and everything in between, we must be ready for the influx of young people who need societies help We have two options, we can open our eyes to the struggles of adults on the spectrum, create and fund programs that ensure their success present and future. Or we can continue to keep blind eyes and backs turned on a vulnerable population who requires assistance and deal with the consequences.

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My perspective is that PREVENTION is always paramount versus REMEDIATION.

Quoting Plato: “To live with indifference is to live with evil men” or in modern gender neutral speak (evil people). Will society be part of the success or the failure of families and people on the spectrum. The answer……is up to you: every human being has a right to have their challenges recognized and gain assistance so they can transition into independent, socially successful individuals. In the end, they need you, society at large to show them that you care enough to assist them. Society has changed. Diagnostic techniques are readily available as never before. behavioral interventions and larger knowledge bases for implementing and individualizing compensatory strategies are prevalent as never before. Perhaps it is time to redefine the descriptors for developmental disabilities as well. 

The knowledge and services are available in theory. In terms of individuals with Aspergers and high functioning autism, recognition is lagging far behind however. Without acknowledgment and identification for this population who greatly needs support and understanding, if the services are not available for them that is akin to possessing a can of beans when we have no can opener. Without the can opener, the can of beans can not be opened. Society, YOU must be the metaphorical can opener.

Mari Nosal M.Ed. CECE

Are you looking for a book that explains how to interact/understand the needs of kids on spectrum? I believe that my book written by me, a special needs parent/educator who has actually walked down the special needs path both as a parent and an educator? It was written from the passion developed from my experiences as a parent wading through the challenges of bringing up kids who are wired differently and my experience in classrooms I am the parent of an adult son with a late DX of Aspergers and earlier diagnosis of ADD/Anxiety. My family has experienced learning disabilities, medical challenges and more. I have certainly walked the walk of a special needs parent and still do. My goal is to light the path for parents who feel as though they are alone and walking down a dark path. There is a LIGHT at the end of the tunnel and my goal is to supply you with some inspiration while educating society in a collaborative manner as well. Check out my book 10 Commandments Of Interacting With Kids On The #Autism Spectrum. Written from the heart with a passion to make a small dent in society with the ultimate goal of increasing tolerance and acceptance of those with different needs. May we all one day, ALL live, love, laugh, play and work together in a society void of judgment and filled with acceptance and understanding for our fellow human beings.

  You are most welcome to stop by my Amazon book website to check out my five star reviews and have a free preview of my books at http://tinyurl.com/kdspqy9

Excerpt From Ten Commandments for Interacting With Kids On The Autism Spectrum

Thou shall not compare me to others.
Please remind me, and note the talents that I possess. This increases my confidence and positive self worth. Learning disabled or not, we ALL have talents to contribute within society. I need you to help me realize what mine is. Believe in me and I will believe in myself.
 Thou shall not exclude me from activities.
Please do not mimic me, ignore me, or bully me. Please invite me to play with you. It hurts my feelings when I am excluded. I like to run and jump in the playground, and be invited to birthday parties too. Grownups can help me make friends by encouraging other children to play with me. I can be a loyal friend if you get to know me.

 

Mari Nosal M.Ed

I want my experiences and challenges to be used productively as a learning tool for other parents and for educators as well. When my son was diagnosed with Asperger’s a decade ago it was a foreign word among many parents and professionals alike. I fought for help never giving up. Through my books I wish to help parents feel like they do not walk in the dark, that they are not alone, empower them and that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I also want to educate society at large on the topic of the autism spectrum. I believe all parties involved need to work as a collaborative team in order to insure a special needs child’s success.If you like my articles, aside from being the parent of an adult with Aspergers Syndrome/ A.D.D and an educational professional, I am also a published author of many special needs and autism related books written to inspire and support parents, families, educators and society at large as well. Please stop by and check out my books on Amazon.com at Mari Nosal : Please stop by my site at Amazon Books and check out my published books on autism aspergers special needs and more http://tinyurl.com/kdspqy9

Excerpt From Book Ten Commandments For Educators Who Teach Kids on the Autism Spectrum

Thou shall practice reflective observation and remediation. If I become distracted, hyperactive, speak out of turn, or agitated, please attempt to find out why I am doing so. It is easier to prevent a behavioral issue than to try and re-mediate it afterwards. If you notice the early warning signs, you may be able to make adaptations to prevent escalation. Once my behavior has gotten out of hand it will be difficult to assist me with getting back on task. Simple techniques may work. If I am having difficulty focusing, seem agitated, or become socially inappropriate, the bright fluorescent lights may be hurting my eyes. Please remember that my five senses are hypersensitive and I can become over-stimulated by everyday sights, smells, and sounds. Perhaps, dimming the lights in the room may calm me down. If I appear hyperactive, perhaps you could find a job for me to do in the classroom. The job could be as simple as making me a helper and asking me to hand out paper, or art supplies to the other children, pass out homework etc. so I can stretch my legs without being singled out in front of my classmates. If I am distracted by the other children while expected to take a test, perhaps you will allow me to wear earplugs to squelch my hypersensitivity to noise. I know I can be a lot of work at times, especially in a inclusive classroom. It is worth your effort, I assure you. It is a win-win situation for me and my classmates. They will learn to accept and respect differences in people through their interactions with me. They will carry this empathy into adulthood and the workplace. In turn, I will learn appropriate social skills through observation of my neurotypical classmates. With your assistance, the other children will learn to note and appreciate my talents and contributions within the classroom. I will learn how to be a member of a group who appreciates me. This in turn will boost my positive self-efficacy.

Mari Nosal M.Ed

I want my experiences and challenges to be used productively as a learning tool for other parents and for educators as well. When my son was diagnosed with Asperger’s a decade ago it was a foreign word among many parents and professionals alike. I fought for help never giving up. Through my books I wish to help parents feel like they do not walk in the dark, that they are not alone, empower them and that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I also want to educate society at large on the topic of the autism spectrum. I believe all parties involved need to work as a collaborative team in order to insure a special needs child’s success.If you like my articles, aside from being the parent of an adult with Aspergers Syndrome/ A.D.D and an educational professional, I am also a published author of many special needs and autism related books written to inspire and support parents, families, educators and society at large as well. Please stop by and check out my books on Amazon.com at Mari Nosal : Please stop by my site at Amazon Books and check out my published books on autism aspergers special needs and more http://tinyurl.com/kdspqy9

Excerpt From ‘Ten Commandments of Interacting with Kids on the Autism Spectrum For Parents

Thou shall tell parents of autistic kids what they do well: We struggle with our child’s special needs, attempt to carve out time with our other children so they do not feel left out, carve out time for our spouse, attempt to create a copacetic environment for our families, love and accept unconditionally, and more. We parents are occasionally insecure regarding our parenting skills. We are not immune to the glaring disapproving eyes, and mumbles of disapproval regarding our parenting style of our special needs kids. We need support and understanding from you as we feel helpless when we cannot help our child during a meltdown, etc. Please tell us what we do right occasionally and offer to lend a hand. It means the world to a parent of a special needs child to receive a compliment regarding them or their child when the parent feels like giving up hope.
I want my experiences and challenges to be used productively as a learning tool for other parents and for educators as well. When my son was diagnosed with Asperger’s a decade ago it was a foreign word among many parents and professionals alike. I fought for help never giving up. Through my books I wish to help parents feel like they do not walk in the dark, that they are not alone, empower them and that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I also want to educate society at large on the topic of the autism spectrum. I believe all parties involved need to work as a collaborative team in order to insure a special needs child’s success.If you like my articles, aside from being the parent of an adult with Aspergers Syndrome/ A.D.D and an educational professional, I am also a published author of many special needs and autism related books written to inspire and support parents, families, educators and society at large as well. Please stop by and check out my books on Amazon.com at Mari Nosal : Please stop by my site at Amazon Books and check out my published books on autism aspergers special needs and more http://tinyurl.com/kdspqy9

 

Mari Nosal M.Ed.

When special needs children appear to have unlearned skills they possessed

Being the parent of a child with special needs can produce a myriad of emotions that are connected to our children’s growth and development. Some of those emotions will be guilt (did I cause this somehow), anger (why my family), feelings of loss (for what could have been) even a twang of envy when observing typically developing kids skill – set which your child struggles to develop or even possess. These are merely a few examples as each family is different.

When the children are born, you go through a grieving process of sorts. While pregnant, visions of whether the child will be a boy or a girl, what they will look like, whether they will grow up to be the next president, famous ballerina or football player and future parental and social interactions with friends prance through your head.

When the child is born and receives a diagnosis all of the dreams that you had are traded in for therapy appointments, restructuring your own time to help your child experience success to the best of their abilities. After all, just like parents of typically developing kids, you wish to have a well balanced happy healthy child and family life.

What inevitably happens in the majority of families is that you gradually develop a new type of normal. We grieve the child who initially resided in the confines of our mind and gradually accept the child we have. We learn to note the positive in them and not merely what capabilities they do not possess. As special needs parents, you take nothing for granted. Every milestone reached that you never expected your child to accomplish is savored in a way that parents of typically developing parents could not begin to comprehend. For them, playdates, group sports, outings are an unsaid and everyday part of their life. While parents of typically developing kids possess hopes that their child will become captain of their baseball team, special needs parents just want their child to enjoy being part of a team. While other parents worry about how popular their child is, special needs parents silently hope for their child to have a friend.

For the special needs parent, a simple shopping trip or outing with a child can take days to plan for. They may struggle with getting through a simple shopping trip without some extraneous trigger sending their child into an emotional tailspin. Thus, you cut your outing short. A special needs family who attempts to watch a movie in a theater or enjoy a simple family meal in a restaurant may be forced to leave due to circumstances beyond their control. A child may have an unexpected meltdown, make loud noises that are beyond their parents control until inevitably you hear the “Can’t you control your child” from other patrons.

That said, I would like to remind you that bringing up a child with special needs is a humbling, ego busting, negative self efficacy promoter and occasionally even a lonely job where it feels akin to walking down a dark path alone. You are far from alone and doing the best job possible. Remember, you ARE a good parent. If you did not love and care about your children immensely, those negative feelings of insecurity and failure would not rear their ugly head within. Those feeling arise out of frustration and uncertainty that you are not providing the best assistance to those you love the most.

The most powerful self esteem snatcher for a parent of special needs children is to revel in a skill the child has acquired which was not expected. Upon observing your child’s newly acquired skill, strong feelings of hope are felt by the parent. Just when the child achieves a new skill and we allow ourselves permission to dream about their future in a positive light, the child may regress in another area where skills had been acquired long ago. Many parents have thrown up their hands at this point and felt like giving up, cannot take parenting a challenging child any longer or simply feel like a failure while focusing on the child’s regression in skills.

Regressive behavior during development of milestones can actually be a temporary yet necessary development while the child acquires new skills. Can regression be positive? I provide to you a resounding yes. Regressive behavior can result from stress, fear of the unknown, frustration due to challenging circumstances or delving into a new experience or in this case learning a new skill.

Many equate regression in children as returning to a more comfortable time in their life that is not age appropriate. Ie the potty trained child who starts wetting the bed, or the older child who wants a pacifier or bottle which assists them into retreating to a safer more comfortable time in their life. Regression can also pertain to unlearning old behaviors or skills while learning new ones.

Learning the new skill may produce uncertainty in a child. They are entering a new territory that is challenging. In doing so, other skills may be unlearned requiring more attention from the parent for the child as he/her ventures forth with a new challenge. Hence, the child’s progression becomes two steps forward and one step back. Even adults experience this.

Haven’t the majority of we adults experienced temporary loss of skills when dealing with an all encompassing challenge such as death, illness, family challenges? Heck, I recall being so entrenched in a family crisis in the past that I misplaced my car keys only to find that they had been mindlessly deposited in the freezer by me. I recall being preoccupied with other challenges that warranted my attention to the extent that I temporarily lost the ability to write articles. Although I possessed the capability I could find no words to transfer from my mind to paper. I am sure all readers can recall variations of my examples within their own adult lives.

Occasionally even as adults, we seem to unlearn skills ourselves and they take a back burner while we process challenging events Learning is not a linear experience. Children learn in what I define a form of disequilibrium, especially children with special challenges. At times, everything is smooth sailing and you think your special needs child is on track. Then BOOM, the child appears to regress rather than progress. In fact, progression is generally evident during times like this. Kids do not develop in all areas simultaneously. Be a sleuth think of regressive periods in your child’s life as touch points.
When your child appears to unlearn skills or display much younger coping skills, attempt to identify a recently acquired skill or one they are attempting to master. You may just spot emotional or physical growth hidden in the child’s so called one step backward. These periods may go on for days or even a month.

During these periods you will have thoughts of should of, would of, could ofs running rampant through your mind. Remember that you are doing the best that you can with the tools you have at your fingertips. Your children do not come with a handbook. Each child is different and will react to different interventions in different ways. But I assure you that progression will take place with time, patience not only for your child but for yourself as well. You are your child’s best and strongest advocate. Do not let would ofs, should of, and could of demons that are generally developed from parental guilt versus reality strip you of your hopes and dreams for your child. After all, isn’t hope the biggest strength for you and a gift to reinforce in your child the most important force you possess to keep on with trudging forward.

Hang in there and never stop dreaming, hoping and believing no matter how dark you feel the road is. You and your child will keep progressing. After all, you made it through yesterday and the day before that. You will make it through today and all days thereof as well. Your kids believe in you. Remember to believe in yourself as well.

From the heart of Mari Nosal M.Ed

I am a published author and focus on books pertaining to autism and Aspergers Syndrome. I have had special needs articles published in several magazines. I have been interviewed several times in print, on pod casts, and internet T.V. regarding the autism spectrum. I have presented autism workshops to staff, management teams, and parent groups. I offer tips on curriculum development and behavior modification within the classroom and through in-services. I am certified by the Department of Early Childhood Education as a lead preschool teacher, an infant and toddler teacher, and site coordinator qualified to manage school age programs. I have recently ventured into public speaking engagements to educate both parents and educators on autism and Aspergers Syndrome I want my experiences and challenges to be used productively as a learning tool for other parents and for educators as well. When my son was diagnosed with Asperger’s a decade ago it was a foreign word among many parents and professionals alike. I fought for help never giving up. Through my books I wish to help parents feel like they do not walk in the dark, that they are not alone, empower them and that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I also want to educate society at large on the topic of the autism spectrum. I believe all parties involved need to work as a collaborative team in order to insure a special needs child’s success.If you like my articles, aside from being the parent of an adult with Aspergers Syndrome/ A.D.D and an educational professional, I am also a published author of many special needs and autism related books written to inspire and support parents, families, educators and society at large as well. Please stop by and check out my books on Amazon.com at Mari Nosal : Please stop by my site at Amazon Books and check out my published books on autism aspergers special needs and more http://tinyurl.com/kdspqy9

A thought Regarding Special Needs Individuals

 

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AN INDIVIDUAL
DIAGNOSED WITH SPECIAL NEEDS SHOULD NOT BE DEFINED BY A DIAGNOSIS

IT IS A PART OF WHAT MAKES THEM UNIQUE

IT IS MERELY ONE COMPONENT OF THEIR LIFESTYLE

DO NOT DEFINE THEM AS A DIAGNOSIS BUT AS A HUMAN WITH
INDIVIDUAL TALENTS SKILLS AND INDIVIDUAL PERSONALITIES EMBRACE WHAT SPECIAL NEEDS INDIVIDUALS HAVE TO OFFER WITHIN SOCIETY

A DIAGNOSIS SHOULD BE USED MERELY TO INTERACT WITH A SPECIAL NEEDS INDIVIDUAL TAKING THEIR SPECIAL LEARNING STYLE INTO ACCOUNT.

A DIAGNOSIS SHOULD NEVER BE USED HOWEVER WITH THE INTENT OF HANDICAPPING AN INDIVIDUAL NOR DEFINING WHO THEY ARE AS PERSON BY IT.

Mari Nosal M.Ed

I am a published author and focus on books pertaining to autism and Aspergers Syndrome. I have had special needs articles published in several magazines. I have been interviewed several times in print, on pod casts, and internet T.V. regarding the autism spectrum. I have presented autism workshops to staff, management teams, and parent groups. I offer tips on curriculum development and behavior modification within the classroom and through in-services. I am certified by the Department of Early Childhood Education as a lead preschool teacher, an infant and toddler teacher, and site coordinator qualified to manage school age programs. I have recently ventured into public speaking engagements to educate both parents and educators on autism and Aspergers Syndrome I want my experiences and challenges to be used productively as a learning tool for other parents and for educators as well. When my son was diagnosed with Asperger’s a decade ago it was a foreign word among many parents and professionals alike. I fought for help never giving up. Through my books I wish to help parents feel like they do not walk in the dark, that they are not alone, empower them and that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I also want to educate society at large on the topic of the autism spectrum. I believe all parties involved need to work as a collaborative team in order to insure a special needs child’s success.If you like my articles, aside from being the parent of an adult with Aspergers Syndrome/ A.D.D and an educational professional, I am also a published author of many special needs and autism related books written to inspire and support parents, families, educators and society at large as well. Please stop by and check out my books on Amazon.com at Mari Nosal : Please stop by my site at Amazon Books and check out my published books on autism aspergers special needs and more http://tinyurl.com/kdspqy9

I Propose Changing Autism Awareness Month To Autism Acceptance Year

Autism awareness, what does this really mean? Logos, colors and symbols that represent autism awareness are prevalent during the month of April. People equate the symbols with the autism spectrum. However, being aware that autism exists and comprehending what the autism spectrum is composed of, the challenges faced by families, children and adults who live with autism 12 months out of the year is a totally different and pressing issue.

For these individuals, autism awareness does not end when April comes to a close and all the symbols and autism awareness programs that are plentiful during April disappear and society at large goes on with their daily lives as autism awareness month becomes a distant memory in their minds. For individuals living with autism and those that love them, autism does not end in April. They are extremely aware that autism exists because the challenges connected with the autism spectrum are enmeshed in their daily lives. It is a lifestyle for them that defines how they live. Individuals who live with or have loved ones on the spectrum have gained awareness through experience. They perceive autism from the perspective of life experience which is quite different then equating a logo with autism and leaving it at that.

Awareness’ is resultant from knowledge. Knowledge can only occur through interaction with individuals and families on the spectrum and educating the public at large. People tend to fear the unknown do to lack of understanding. Through education and interactions fear is diminished and a level acceptance is created. Tolerance should not be an ultimate goal either as tolerance merely means that society tolerates a certain population. ie People tolerate mosquitoes at a cookout yet find them annoying at the same time. People on the spectrum and their families are human beings who should not merely be tolerated but accepted and embraced as meaningful members of society.
Lets create a society where autism colors and logos are equated with action. Support and seek to understand the challenges of those on the spectrum by spending time with them. If you are a neighbor of a family with a child on the spectrum, stop by their house with a coffee for the parents and visit them to chat for a while. These families often feel isolated, they often feel like outliers in society and would welcome visitors who wish to chat with them.

Take their child out to give parents a break. Encourage your own children to include kids on the spectrum in their play. Yes, even if your child must adapt their play to include a special needs child. In doing so you will teach your neurotypical child a life long lesson, respect for others differences. Offer to babysit so parents can spend much needed one on one time with typically developing siblings, spend time with their husband, or merely allow a sleep deprived parent to take a much needed nap.

An increase in educational programs would provide a venue to educate the public. Schools incorporating special needs education as required parts of their curriculum, parents attending required special needs presentations at the beginning of each school year to gain an understanding of the challenges facing kids with special needs and required in-services on a regular basis for educators. Perhaps students could be offered a course where they are paired up in class with a student on the spectrum which they mentor and engage in their activities throughout the year. I realize we have voluntary programs like this across the country. Considering the inclusive environment we live in, I would propose this special needs program as mandatory for graduation. It would prove to be a valuable as all kids will go on to work in companies with differently abled individuals as adults.

Aside from educating society on the challenges of families and individuals on the spectrum we must also shine a light on their capabilities. Everyone learns through experience not merely digesting factual information. Towns could start photography clubs, art classes, writing workshops, dance competitions that display the talents of people with challenges and their successes. Interview them in the local newspapers and display them as productive members of society, not merely individuals and families to be pitied. They do not want your pity, they wish for understanding and acceptance. Through this action, society at large will open a venue for society to understand and appreciate the talents special needs individuals embrace and not merely see them as being destined to be supported by society. You see, with your help they not only support themselves but live work and play side by side with neurotypical individuals who embrace them into society.
Education programs within colleges across the world would prove a prudent move to increase autism classes offered as mandatory within their curriculum. Schools and life in general is so inclusive no that there is an increased need in assisting future educators by squelching myths and misnomers and teaching the educators of tomorrow how to hone the skills that people on the spectrum posses. They are no different than you or I. They wish to live a fulfilling life just like anyone else.
Include individuals on the autism spectrum when offering presentations. After all, who knows what it is like to live on the spectrum than an autistic individuals themselves. Invite parents of special needs kids to speak at presentations. They have lived experience and would prove to be an asset providing knowledge and experience that cannot be found on Google.

Offer to drive an individual on the spectrum who has no license to school, the store, doctors appointments etc. Highlight the skills of an autistic individuals who may excel in math, English, science and more by inviting them to tutor a neurotypical individual who struggles in that subject. Remember, and individual may struggle with specific academics yet excel in others. By turning the tables we focus not only on their deficits but challenges as well.

I have performed acts such as sending 75 of my books to a developing country so parents and educators who otherwise could not afford my books were provided with the gift of knowledge. Nuerotypical authors of books on the spectrum could hone the artistic skills of an individual on the spectrum to illustrate one of their books, thus providing an opportunity for experience and employment. Allow someone on the spectrum to write the forward for your book. After all, if you are writing a book about the spectrum, shouldn’t you include someone with lived knowledge that a neurotypical could not possibly possess?

The opportunities to increase understanding regarding the autism spectrum is only limited by your imagination. What will you do to help someone or their family on the spectrum this year?

That said, I will wish you a happy Autism ACCEPTANCE YEAR. Please remember, the autism symbols, colors and declarations of autism awareness will become a distant memory on May first for those who do not have loved ones or live with autism. For those families like mine, autism is something we live 365 days a year. Remember to continue, advocating, assisting, attempting to understand those who live with and interact with those on the spectrum daily. These individuals do not get put in a draw in may to be released next April. They are your co – workers, neighbors, classmates and hopefully become your friend.
That said, I will wish you a happy Autism ACCEPTANCE YEAR. May we all grow, interact, respect and gain a better understanding and appreciation of one another this year.

From the heart of Mari Nosal M.Ed

I am a published author and focus on books pertaining to autism and Aspergers Syndrome. I have had special needs articles published in several magazines. I have been interviewed several times in print, on pod casts, and internet T.V. regarding the autism spectrum. I have presented autism workshops to staff, management teams, and parent groups. I offer tips on curriculum development and behavior modification within the classroom and through in-services. I am certified by the Department of Early Childhood Education as a lead preschool teacher, an infant and toddler teacher, and site coordinator qualified to manage school age programs. I have recently ventured into public speaking engagements to educate both parents and educators on autism and Aspergers Syndrome
I want my experiences and challenges to be used productively as a learning tool for other parents and for educators as well. When my son was diagnosed with Asperger’s a decade ago it was a foreign word among many parents and professionals alike. I fought for help never giving up. Through my books I wish to help parents feel like they do not walk in the dark, that they are not alone, empower them and that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I also want to educate society at large on the topic of the autism spectrum. I believe all parties involved need to work as a collaborative team in order to insure a special needs child’s success.If you like my articles, aside from being the parent of an adult with Aspergers Syndrome/ A.D.D and an educational professional, I am also a published author of many special needs and autism related books written to inspire and support parents, families, educators and society at large as well. Please stop by and check out my books on Amazon.com at Mari Nosal : Please stop by my site at Amazon Books and check out my published books on autism aspergers special needs and more http://tinyurl.com/kdspqy9

My thought about autism for today

 

This photo and post is part of the personal and private collection of Mari Nosal. It is not to be used without proper credit to the author.

What autistic loved ones,  family members and I would like you to know.

Autism is not a communicable disease. It is merely part of what makes me the one and only me. Come visit me in my world for a while. Get to know my family. If you spend time with me, you may just realize what an awesome person I am.

 

I am a published author and focus on books pertaining to autism and Aspergers Syndrome. I have had special need articles published in several magazines. I have been interviewed several times in print, on pod casts, and internet T.V. regarding the autism spectrum. I have presented autism workshops to staff, management teams, and parent groups. I offer tips on curriculum development and behavior modification within the classroom and through in-services. I am certified by the Department of Early Childhood Education as a lead preschool teacher, an infant and toddler teacher, and site coordinator qualified to manage school age programs. I have recently ventured into public speaking engagements to educate both parents and educators on autism and Aspergers Syndrome
I want my experiences and challenges to be used productively as a learning tool for other parents and for educators as well. When my son was diagnosed with Asperger’s a decade ago it was a foreign word among many parents and professionals alike. I fought for help never giving up. Through my books I wish to help parents feel like they do not walk in the dark, that they are not alone, empower them and that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I also want to educate society at large on the topic of the autism spectrum. I believe all parties involved need to work as a collaborative team in order to insure a special needs child’s success.If you like my articles, aside from being the parent of an adult with Aspergers Syndrome/ A.D.D and an educational professional, I am also a published author of many special needs and autism related books written to inspire and support parents, families, educators and society at large as well. Please stop by and check out my books on Amazon.com at Mari Nosal : Please stop by my site at Amazon Books and check out my published books on autism aspergers special needs and more http://tinyurl.com/kdspqy9

owers

Autism Awareness: Focus On The Reason Not The Color Of A Symbol

Autism awareness month is almost upon us. The inevitable posts encouraging people to light it up blue, gold, multi – colored and more have become plentiful. In my opinion, a color does not signify autism acceptance. Without action attached to the colored puzzle piece or ribbon it is merely a color.

The definition of the word awareness is defined as “Awareness is the ability to perceive, to feel, or to be conscious of events, objects, thoughts, emotions, or sensory patterns. In this level of consciousness, sense data can be confirmed by an observer without necessarily implying understanding. More broadly, it is the state or quality of being aware of something.” (Wikipedia encyclopedia)

Lighting it up blue, gold, multicolored, or green with zigzag imprints for that matter is not indicative of awareness. Awareness is merely the beginning of a process towards understanding. Individuals may witness the empire state building lit up blue and associate it with the word autism. However without understanding this will be the extent of their knowledge. They will gaze up at the blue light bulbs in awe. Individuals will than go out their business forgetting about autism awareness. Meanwhile, autistic parents and children will live with autism 24 -7.

For them autism awareness is everyday of the year. Autistic children will struggle to live with their challenges and attempt to gain new skills that will help them thrive. Parents of autistic children will continue to coach, cheer lead and support their kids day in and day out. For these parents awareness is sleep deprived nights caring for their children who awaken in the middle of the night screaming, stimming, occasionally harming themselves through their behaviors and more.

Awareness is not about a business creating an autism awareness sale for their wares in the same fashion that stores have fourth of July sales with the intent of selling merchandise yet forgetting the meaning of independence day. Sadly, I have witnessed this many times. “In honor of autism awareness check out our sale” If the merchandiser was honoring autism awareness in their sale they would be offering a portion of their sales to an autism fund, family or the like.

Awareness is developed through knowledge. Knowledge is acquired through education. Knowledge leads to understanding of autism. Understanding of the autism leads to acceptance. Only through acceptance can full awareness be developed. Rather than focusing on what color we should support. Focus on the goal. Acceptance, tolerance, understanding, awareness, and most of all ACTION. After all, isn’t the varied colors of a rainbow what gives it the majestic beauty it possesses. If a rainbow was one color, it would not be a rainbow. Isn’t the autism spectrum quite similar. Hence the reason it is called a spectrum. Like the colors of a rainbow, autistic individuals come in all shapes and sizes.

This ideal is present in society at large as well. The world is a melting pot of colors, nationalities, creeds and belief systems. In order to live harmoniously side by side we look beyond the colors and nationalities of our wonderful world in order to live harmoniously. Those who don’t unfortunately exist in a narrow-minded world indeed.

Move beyond the colors. They are merely symbols. Symbols that do not define a person. It is the actions of society at large that define us not colors. Obliterate the them and us mode of thinking and change that to WE. We argue due to our different modes of thinking and belief systems. Surprisingly, when we dig below the surface it becomes self-evident that when we combine those differences as a team and embrace our varied mind – set we make larger contributions to the ultimate goal. That goal is to open up societies eyes regarding the autism spectrum.

Rather than focusing on what color to follow. Harness that energy in a more productive manner. Make it your goal to step out of your box and out of your comfort zone today and everyday, not merely in April. Offer to watch a sleep deprived autism parents child while they take a nap or spend time with their spouse or other children. Cook a meal for the family of a child with autism. For a parent with a child that has autism who has dealt with a bolting child, items thrown all over the house , or dealt with several meltdowns and more. Your effort will be appreciated. I can confirm this statement as I am the parent of an adult on the spectrum. Spend the day volunteering with autistic individuals or families and get to know them. Assist an adult with autism who cannot drive by offering them a lift in your car. Volunteer to tutor young adults in life skills and academics. These are merely a few things that can increase awareness.

So wear any color or logo that you wish but remember the reason behind autism awareness month and do not lose sight of that in an effort to become a sheep following a herd. Long live the prism of the rainbow.

Written from the heart of Mari Nosal M.Ed.

I am a published author and focus on books pertaining to autism and Aspergers Syndrome. I have had special needs articles published in several magazines. I have been interviewed several times in print, on pod casts, and internet T.V. regarding the autism spectrum. I have presented autism workshops to staff, management teams, and parent groups. I offer tips on curriculum development and behavior modification within the classroom and through in-services. I am certified by the Department of Early Childhood Education as a lead preschool teacher, an infant and toddler teacher, and site coordinator qualified to manage school age programs. I have recently ventured into public speaking engagements to educate both parents and educators on autism and Aspergers Syndrome
I want my experiences and challenges to be used productively as a learning tool for other parents and for educators as well. When my son was diagnosed with Asperger’s a decade ago it was a foreign word among many parents and professionals alike. I fought for help never giving up. Through my books I wish to help parents feel like they do not walk in the dark, that they are not alone, empower them and that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I also want to educate society at large on the topic of the autism spectrum. I believe all parties involved need to work as a collaborative team in order to insure a special needs child’s success.If you like my articles, aside from being the parent of an adult with Aspergers Syndrome/ A.D.D and an educational professional, I am also a published author of many special needs and autism related books written to inspire and support parents, families, educators and society at large as well. Please stop by and check out my books on Amazon.com at Mari Nosal : Please stop by my site at Amazon Books and check out my published books on autism aspergers special needs and more http://tinyurl.com/kdspqy9