Features:
Connections With Karen: What Does It Mean to “Find Your Voice”?
Here are ways to help autistic individuals confidently express their feelings and opinions.
Karen Kaplan, MS
The Power of Play: Enhancing Communication
Learn how play can foster communication skills and development.
Monica Hudnall, EdD, CCC-SLP
Active Listening: Building Stronger Connections
How does active listening build effective communication skills and foster connections?
Karen Massey, BA (Hons), BSc (Hons), MRCSLT, MHCPC
Words Matter: Boosting Communication Skills
Most individuals with autism want to talk but need language models to master functional speech.
Marci Melzer, MEd
Questions to Ask When an AAC Device is Recommended
Here are some questions if a professional recommends an Augmentative and Alternate Communication system.
Jennifer McMahon, MA, BCBA
Limitations in ABA
What are the limitations of Applied Behavior Analysis for individuals with autism, and what is the solution?
Carol Tatom, BA.HSE, CHW
Q & A with Dr. Temple Grandin: Repetitive Behaviors
This month, Dr. Temple Grandin answers parents’ questions about repetitive behaviors.
Dr. Temple Grandin, PhD
When Behavior Affects Relationships
By solving the problems that cause concerning behaviors, relationships can be enhanced.
Ross W. Greene, PhD and Anna Cait Wade, PhD
The Therapeutic Power of Journaling for ASD Caregivers
Here is a therapeutic way for caregivers to navigate their roles, foster self-awareness, and gain an emotional outlet.
Professor May Ng, OBE, PhD, MBA, MSc, MBA, MBBS, FRCPCH, FHEA, SFFMLM
Success Story - Every Day is Different and Esmae’s Bravery
Jessica Hurdle writes about the hurdles, progress, and joy of each day with her son, and Sarah Burns writes about her daughter’s bravery.
Jessica Hurdle; Sarah Burns
Role-playing for Social Skills Development
Role-playing is a safe setting where children with autism can practice real-life social situations.
Joel Shaul, LCSW
Breath and Presence: Overcoming Emotional Stress
Understanding the connection between breathing and emotions can help with emotional stress.
Michael Wood, MEd, MSc, BSc (Hons), PGCE
Positive Behavior Support at Home and School - What Works?
Former teachers have the skill base to help with positive behavior support at home.
Leigh De Silva, MAS
Animal Allies: Autism Emotional Support
Find out how animal therapy can support emotional regulation.
Jeremy Brown
Ask Dr. Malcolm
Dr. Malcolm answers parents’ questions and concerns about their autistic children.
Ronald I. Malcolm, EdD
Crafting Cover Letters: Tips for Job Seekers
For job seekers on the spectrum, here are some guidelines to write a good cover letter.
Jaclyn Hunt, MA, ACAS, BCCS
Tips to Help with Transition to Independence
One neurodivergent writer provides tips for transitioning to independence.
Angela Chapes
Autism Warrior - A Leading Role
Here is how one man shares his autism experience with others.
Sharon Longo, BA
What’s New on the Bookshelf? Bigger Than the Moon: A Parent’s Journey with Autism
Here is one mother’s journey of love, resilience, and redefining motherhood.
Syreeta N. Brown
Dear Readers,
For many, March is the beginning of spring, when we hear the birds communicating with one another in blissful chirps and tweets. Their sounds can enlist help or notify parent birds of their hunger. From nudges and gestures to various sounds, we observe babies (both human and animal) finding ways to communicate with those around them. As babies become toddlers and young children, they learn that communication comes in different forms. How appropriate that this month’s theme is “Finding Your Voice: Communication Beyond Speech.” Finding a voice is especially important for children on the spectrum, especially those who are nonspeaking.
Communication is necessary for forming and maintaining relationships, making needs known, and sharing one’s thoughts with others. Nothing is lonelier than being misunderstood or disregarded as having thoughts or feelings that don’t matter. I would imagine that not having a way to produce one’s thoughts and express those feelings would be even more difficult.
Thankfully, we have other communication methods, such as AAC devices, sign language, and gestures. We also have experts like speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists to help when speech is delayed. As you read through this month’s issue, notice all our articles on enhancing and boosting communication, building stronger connections, overcoming stress, developing social skills, and gaining support. We even have information to help adults in the workforce craft better cover letters to communicate their skills to employers before meeting them.
As you notice the increasing nature sounds around you, observe your child’s progress in even the smallest task. Whatever their communication - a playful nudge, a throaty sound, or a complete sentence, celebrate the thoughts and feelings they share with you. While each bird’s chirp or tweet may be a small sound, it is filled with meaning and pleasing to our ears. Your child’s simple communication efforts have a much more significant meaning. They may be the symphony or soliloquy you need to hear at this moment
Happy reading!
Sharon Longo
Editor
Autism Parenting Magazine
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