NEW HOPE
AUTISM CENTER  Bringing a Message of Hope, Information, Support & Resources
to the Community Touched by Autism.

Just wait! You are it today! You will see the world the way it sees you. Just keeping trukin along this path you are taking. Be good to others, always tell the truth, show everyone who you are and good will come back to you. We are all special in so many ways. Don't let yourself fall short today! Don't let yourself fall short any day! Be the person you can be, that is the best that I see! You are my friend indeed, and remember, we are the best and sometimes the best needs a rest from the worry and the zest of the evil and the past. We just look ahead and keep our head held high for we are the best and you inpress all the rest.... including me my friend. I will see you at the top, because good people will never fall, we have too many others pushing us tall.

Take every opportunity to be invoved in what your child is doing.  You are with your child more than anyone else and therefore you have the most opportunity to have an influence in their lives.

THINGS TO DO NOW:

Narrate what your child is doing, i.e. "Holly you're looking at the book" or "Billy you're playing with the car." Sometimes kids respond better to singing. Sing their name.

Tape Record yourself singing the ABC's, counting, words that begin with A, B, C, favorite stories,nursery rhymes, etc. Play the tape in the car, at bedtime, while swinging, etc.

Video tape children playing, dressing, eating, etc. Let your child watch other children and himself. 

Take pictures of your child and make a storybook of their typical day; dressing, breakfast, etc. Storybooks can also be made of school, family, special days or vacations. Use short phrases like,"Brock eating." Use storybook to prepare them for what will be happening, i.e."First we'll go shopping, and then..." etc. Can also be helped to orgaqnize , i.e. hang picture of hat, coat, bookbag by the closet.

Use short phrases. Don't clutter your speech with meaningless words. Use short commands like "give", "touch", or "do this." There is nothing wrong with using propper etiquette at any time, "pleases" and "thank yous" should be used appropriately.

Use positive reinforcement after desired actions. Be consistent in praising your child's accomplishments. Side note: from previous experience a special toy is best, using food will only help if a child is hungry or wants to eat, but a toy is usually appealing.

Teach every possible moment. During meals do "use fork please," "look," request sound before food, etc.

Copy what your child says or noises they make.