Editor ’ s Letter
As millions of kids around the world can barely wait for the end of the school year , thousands of children face a different kind of anticipation — change . Summertime , or really any break in the school year , interrupts routines and schedules and can create anxiety for children on the autism spectrum . And when vacation travel is involved , the angst can be amplified .
In an effort to help families with children with autism , we asked Carol Burmeister and Dr . Sheri Wilkins to share their expert advice with us . Take a look at their piece , 7 Simple Ways to Make Travel Easier with Autism as they share valuable tips on ways to prepare your family for a trip . As parents of children with autism well know , finding ways to connect and communicate is vital . Forming healthy friendships , finding new ways to learn , and conquering daily skills can be a challenge for some . That ’ s why we chose to focus this issue on helping your child learn , connect and form lasting relationships .
We are so excited to tell you about a new methodology that promotes educating children without the confines and pressures often associated with the traditional brick and mortar classroom . Please take a look at the article Kids Must Move : New Online Course Uses Movement to Unlock Learning as we interviewed well-known autism experts Rupert Isaacson ( author , Horse Boy ), Arabella Carter-Johnson ( author , Iris Grace ), and Jenny A Hewitt , MEd . Based on the Movement Method , this revolutionary concept is destined to change the way all children learn , especially young people with special needs .
We also are thrilled to share the sage advice of Dr . Temple Grandin as Dr . Debra Moore , a psychologist who has worked extensively with children , teens and adults on the autism spectrum , shares a recent interview with Dr . Grandin . Please read her piece , Temple Grandin Encourages Kids with Autism to Live Life to the Fullest as Dr . Moore talks with Dr . Grandin about how to provide ‘ loving pushes ’ so kids with autism can become successful adults .
Summertime also provides new opportunities for forming new friendships . As Marguerite Elisofon , author of the book My Picture Perfect Family says , helping kids with autism learn how to make meaningful connections is a fly-by-the-seatof-your-pants experiment , depending on your child ’ s skills , interests and challenges . Take a look at her piece , 5 Valuable Ways to Help Your Child with Autism Enjoy Relationships as Marguerite shares advice on ways to foster communication and lasting relations with siblings and as well as set up successful playdates .
What about finding a life partner ? Licensed Psychologist and BCBA Debra Sloane provides excellent tips on finding and maintaining a successful , loving relationship in her article , Ways You Can Find True Love on the Spectrum . Finding a lasting love is achievable , she believes , as long as you understand your own needs and abilities , allow for differences , communicate , compromise , and form a mutual admiration and respect for one another . Sounds like great advice for everyone .
Another important aspect to remember when raising a child with autism is the need to nurture your own relationships , your marriage . We are happy to be able to share Deanna Picon ’ s article Top 10 Tips for Rekindling Marriage When You Have a Child with Special Needs as the author provides helpful ways to revitalize love and romance with your partner . A strong , lasting parental connection is healthy for the entire family .
We are always thrilled to be able to offer our families new solutions and tips for daily life . Please take a look at our vast assortment of articles this month that focus on mastering daily skills , from Chelsea Ervin ’ s Simple Tips for Conquering Potty Time with ASD to Sam Flatman ’ s piece called How to Help Your Child Develop Social Skills Through Cooperative Play . In addition , we feature an interesting article written by Matthew Aguirre , developer of Rocket Laces , a new product that simplifies tying shoes .
We also like to provide answers for our readers . We recently received a letter from a woman in search of advice on how to help her son with Asperger ’ s syndrome who was unable to manage his meltdowns . Please take a look at Angelina M .’ s excellent response in her piece , HELP : My 20-Year-Old Son Cannot Control Meltdowns .
And in honor of Father ’ s Day celebrated around the world this month , we are highlighting a piece written by a loving dad . Be sure to read Jamiel Owens ’ personal narrative called Becoming a Father - I Remember the Special Day as he shares his innermost thoughts on having a son on the autism spectrum . We would like to thank all dads and father figures who share an important bond with a child with autism . Your never-ending support and love is irreplaceable .
Kind regards ,
Amy KD Tobik Editor-in-Chief
Disclaimer : Autism Parenting Magazine tries its best to deliver honest , unbiased reviews , resources , and advice but please note that due to the variety of capabilities of people on the spectrum that these are recommendations and are not guaranteed by Autism Parenting Magazine or its writers . Medical information , including but not limited to , text , graphics , images and other material contained within Autism Parenting Magazine is for informational purposes only . Always seek the advice of your physician with any questions you may have regarding a treatment .