Thursday, May 25, 2017

9 Tips for Communicating Better With People With Autism

Asha.org recently just put out a new infographic regarding tips to help improve communication for those with Autism. 

It's a must read for everyone! 


Thursday, May 18, 2017

F.A.S.T

American Stroke Month


American Stroke Month started at the beginning of May. If you or someone you know is having a stroke, it is critical to get medical attention immediately! Immediate treatment may minimize the long-term effects of a stroke and even prevent death.


Recognizing the symptoms when someone is having a stroke is vital in order to get the most immediate medical attention. Here are the most common symptoms of someone experiencing a stroke:

    1. Face Drooping —> Ask the person to smile. Is one side of the lower than the other?

    2. Arm Weakness —> Ask the person to lift both arms. Is one arm drifting downward?

    3. Speech Difficulty —> Is their speech slurred? Ask them to repeat a simple sentence

    4. Time to call 9-1-1 —> Time is important! Tell them “I think this is a stroke”



Monday, May 8, 2017

Better Hearing & Speech Month 2017

May is Better Hearing and Speech Month!




Communication: The Key to Connection. 

Approximately 46 million Americans experience some form of communication disorder. Communication disorders can compromise physical and emotional health.
Better Hearing and Speech Month is working to raise awareness about communication disorders and resources available. 

Tuesday, May 2, 2017

Summer Sensory Activities

There are many benefits of sensory activities. 



Sensory play is extremely beneficial to children with developmental delays and is often used in Sensory Integration Therapy. It has been proven that sensory integration therapy improves daily function in children with autism. 

It's not just children who have difficulty with sensory integration who benefit from sensory play; it's all children!

These activities help to stimulate your child's senses: touch, smell, taste, movement, balance, sight and hearing. Sensory play also supports language development, cognitive growth, fine & gross motor skills, problem solving skills, and social interaction. 

Frozen Fractals Ice Art is an activity I recommend you try this summer. This activity allows your child to have creative freedom and is less structured than others. It is a messy activity, so make sure you take it outside on a sunny day! 

Erupting Ice Chalk is another outdoor activity I highly recommend! Just make sure when it is time for the vinegar portion of this activity that your child does not touch their eyes.