Loving Pieces Books

The start of the school year is an exciting time for everyone: new beginnings, brand new materials and endless new learning opportunities full of excitement. At the same time, for some children it can also be a period of anxiety, uncertainty, insecurity and confusion.

I am a teacher and have been able to accompany, guide and support children of different ages and characteristics, including students diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. I have worked both in Spain and in Switzerland, where I lived and worked for three years. There, I learned German, worked with a new school curriculum and learned new methodologies and resources in a totally immersive way. I am currently dedicated to the creation and comprehensive design of teaching materials, educational projects and personalized resources, always adapted to the unique characteristics and needs of each learner.
This experience has shown me the importance of being present at every stage, especially at the beginning of the school year, when everything is new and challenging for many children.

New beginnings may not be easy, but with preparation, empathy and specific strategies, we can make their transition to the classroom much more friendly and positive. Here are some tips:

1.  Before the first day: lay the groundwork

Learn about your student

Establishing close and collaborative communication with parents or guardians is essential to getting to know the student in depth and being able to support them in a respectful and effective manner. Taking an interest in their life beyond the classroom will give you valuable insights into how to create a safer, more predictable and meaningful educational environment.

You can ask questions that will help you better understand their personality, interests, needs and usual supports. Some suggestions:

• What do they like or what motivates them?

• What are their favorite activities or games?

• Are there any specific topics that interest them? Are there any aspects of daily life that they find more appealing (mealtimes, reading time, etc.)?

• Are there any topics that they dislike or find unsettling?

• What situations tend to cause them anxiety/meltdowns?

• Do they follow specific routines?

• What supports or adaptations do they use at home or in therapy? When do they use these supports?

• What strategies do you use at home for crisis situations?

• Do they have any objects that bring them comfort?

• Do they know/have any friends who will be with them in the classroom?

• Do they have sensory hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity? Do they use any items or strategies (such as headphones, sunglasses, clothing with specific textures, etc.) to manage this?

• Do they follow a specific eating routine or have sensitivities to certain foods (textures, tastes, smells)?

• Do they have preferences or difficulties related to lighting, such as bright lights or open windows?

• Do they participate in any activities outside of school hours (sports, music, etc.)?

Also speak with the child’s previous teachers, not just about curricular adaptations but also to understand how the child develops in the classroom and what aspects promote their well-being, inclusion and enjoyment of learning.

• What are their learning preferences?

• In what areas do they need more support?

• What are their timings? Attention span? Rest time?

• Are there specific times of the day when they tend to feel more tired?

• How have social interactions and emotions been worked on previously?

• What resources have worked best for them and which ones did they enjoy the most?

• Do they have any preferences regarding classroom layout?

Don’t expect to have all the answers, but show your willingness to learn and collaborate; that attitude makes all the difference from the start.

Invite the family for a classroom visit

Invite families to visit the classroom a few days before the start of school. This experience allows students to explore the space in a calm environment, without the hustle and bustle of the first day, which promotes a more confident and positive adaptation. During the visit, they will be able to:

• Find their desk and chair.

• Familiarise themselves with the general layout of the classroom.

• Identify where the different materials and resources are located: tablets, pencils, cardboard, paper, folders, dictionaries, calculators, etc.

• Know where to leave their backpack and jacket.

• Identify their designated spot in the classroom.

• Know which classmates will be nearby and where their support teacher will sit.

• Observe what the windows and lights are like and where they are turned on.

• Locate the bathroom.

• Discover the quiet corner.

• Know where to line up and where their place in the line will be.

• Learn the way to the classroom, the playground and other areas of the school.

• Explore and play freely with some of the materials, games or resources they will use during the course.

• Get to know you in a relaxed and unrushed setting.

Use visual supports

Prepare visual materials that you can send home:

• A weekly visual timetable with pictograms that they can print out and take to school every day.

• Include the materials they need to take to each class (books, pencil case, etc.) and clothing (e.g. wear a tracksuit on PE days).

• A detailed visual timetable for the first and second days of class.

• Warning of any changes to the timetable that will be followed throughout the course.

• Including images or explanations of some of the games, materials or routines that will be used during those first two days.

These aids not only facilitate understanding of what will happen, but also allow the child to arrive in the classroom with a sense of familiarity and confidence from the very beginning.

2.  Prepare Adapted and Accessible Materials in Advance

One of the most important steps we can take before the start of the course is to prepare teaching materials adapted to the characteristics and needs of our autistic student. This involves planning with intention, taking into account how that child best accesses information.

Why are these materials essential?

Students on the autism spectrum may process information differently. Having adapted materials facilitates their understanding, reduces anxiety and increases their autonomy, allowing them to participate in classroom activities meaningfully.

Most importantly, these materials truly promote their holistic development and well-being, as well as their enjoyment of the learning process.

Adapting materials and creating inclusive resources takes time and is not an easy task, but I can help you.

https://clarasanchezdesigner.wixsite.com/clara-s/en

I develop inclusive materials, resources and projects that are truly adapted to the needs and characteristics of our students, focusing on comprehensive development and creating a solid foundation that fosters their autonomy and integration into society.

I work in collaboration with schools, teachers, families and other professionals. If you need support or are looking for personalized resources, please do not hesitate to contact me. I am here to accompany you on this journey.

You can learn more about my work, my approach and view examples here: https://clarasanchezdesigner.wixsite.com/clara-s/en

3.  Be Flexible and Cultivate an Inclusive Community

There will be difficult days, adjustments along the way and many questions without immediate answers, but there will also be moments of deep connection, lots of learning and celebrations of small (or big) achievements.

Teach empathy

Without pointing fingers or labelling, you can introduce stories, activities and materials that encourage reflection on empathy and promote diversity from a respectful and inclusive perspective. Some key messages you can work on with the group are:

• We all learn in different ways, and that’s okay.

• There are many ways to communicate and express ourselves, and they are all valid.

• No two people are alike: our differences enrich us and make growing together a valuable experience.

• Respecting others and treating them as we would like to be treated is an essential basis for living together.

Resources like LovingPiecesBooks are a great starting point for addressing these themes in a meaningful and accessible way.

Conveying these values benefits not only autistic students, but the entire group: when we educate about diversity, we show respect, empathy and understanding. If we all thought the same, acted the same or saw the world in the same way… it would be tremendously boring!

Set an example with your attitude

The way you treat autistic students will be the most powerful guide for your pupils. If you listen to them, respect their pace and celebrate their progress, they will do the same.

Conclusion

We all need to feel heard, understood and valued, that’s where true inclusion begins. Don’t ignore or avoid, but adapt, connect and build bridges.

It all starts with the first step, the one we take when we show interest in their characteristics and look for the best way to share knowledge, guide them in their development and find excitement and happiness in every step we take together.

I wish you a great start to the school year! Warm regards,

Clara

Website: https://clarasanchezdesigner.wixsite.com/clara-s/en

Email: clarasanchezdesigner@gmail.com

Sensory-Friendly Airplane Toys & Creative Activities for my 5 year old Guillermo.

Hello friends!

It’s Dalisse here, and this time we’re gearing up for a big adventure: our whole family—Luis, me, and both kids—are flying overseas for a family trip! A 15-hour flight with all four of us means double the excitement, double the snacks, and yes, probably double the “Are we there yet?” moments.

Focusing on Guillermo (5 years old):
Traveling with Guillermo always means a little extra planning. At five, he’s full of energy and curiosity, but long flights can be overwhelming. I know the tablet only lasts so long, so I’m putting together a special kit filled with sensory-friendly toys and creative activities that help him stay calm, entertained, and comfortable.:

Adrián is easier to entertain—he loves his books and tablet, so I’ve packed his favorites and downloaded some new e-books and videogames for the trip. A set of headphones and a portable charger are must-haves for him.

Our Light Travel Game Plan

Packing carry-on light is my new secret weapon! The big items checked bags it is! Here’s how we’re keeping things simple and stress-free, here is my wish-list for this trip:

I´m thinking carry-on for me and a Backpack with my computer, Trunki Bag for Guillermo and a small backpack for him (light-weight).

This little ride-on suitcase is a lifesaver. Guillermo can sit and rest if he gets tired in the airport, and I can pull him along no more carrying a sleepy kid and all our bags at once!

Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/449Hxsa

Small Backpack for Toys:
All of Guillermo’s sensory toys, coloring books, and creative activities fit into a small backpack. It’s easy for him to carry, and I can tuck it under the seat for quick access.

Amazon Links:

BackPack: https://amzn.to/4lwcwV1

Mesh zipper to organize toys: https://amzn.to/3I7toDi

Name Tags: Just in Case:
I always attach a name tag to Guillermo’s clothes and bags with my contact info. Airports can be overwhelming, and this gives me peace of mind in case he wanders off (probably run not walk!).

Amazon Links:

Luggage Tags: https://amzn.to/4lsvfRw

Name Tags: https://amzn.to/45QhffV Along with the Sunflower Landyard: https://amzn.to/3TmoPY7

Temporary Name Tattoos: https://amzn.to/46qCjtx

Leg Rest for the Airplane:
We’re bringing a portable leg rest or bed so Guillermo can stretch out and get comfy during the flight. It turns his seat into a little nest and helps him relax (and sleep during the night!), make sure you check before with airline if they are permitted.

Amazon Links:

Inflatable Bed: https://amzn.to/4kh2eXS

Inflatable Bed: https://amzn.to/46nkgEw

Check out this video: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/rAcQj4hk0dM

Portable Leg rest: (Less Bulky) https://amzn.to/3GiqZFk

Seat Hammock (Ideal Short Flights) https://amzn.to/4l9Ffza

Why Sensory-Friendly Toys Are Our Must-Haves

Airplanes are noisy, crowded, and not always the most comfortable especially for kids who need extra sensory support. That’s why I’ve put together a special “travel kit” for Guillermo, filled with things that help him feel safe, busy, and soothed.

Our favorites for the flight:

• Fidget spinners https://amzn.to/401k4XL & tangle toys https://amzn.to/46leL9l
• Stretchy strings https://amzn.to/4lavn8D
• Sensory Balls https://amzn.to/3TgqdeS
• Mini busy board https://amzn.to/40uUeLO
• Magnetic tiles https://amzn.to/3Th0xyN
• Puzzles https://amzn.to/449Rl5u Magnetic not to loose pieces!

Creative Play: Colors, Stickers, and Window Art

When toys lose their magic, it’s time to get creative!

• Airplane coloring pages and crayons for calming fun https://amzn.to/4knpdkj
• Reusable sticker books for mess-free creativity https://amzn.to/400PJbM
• Window cling art to decorate the airplane window https://amzn.to/4lt3qbE
• Travel bingo & I Spy to turn waiting into a game https://amzn.to/44tTveW

My Packing Tips for a Smooth Flight

• Keep it simple: Only the essentials in Guillermo’s backpack.
• Rotate the fun: I introduce new toys and activities one at a time.
• Bring comfort: His favorite plush toy and a cozy blanket are always with us.

Final Thoughts Before Takeoff

Fifteen hours is a long time, but with a little planning (and a lot of love), I’m hoping we’ll make some special memories together. If you’re prepping for a big flight too, I hope these ideas help your journey feel a little lighter and a lot more fun.

Do you have any favorite travel tips or must-have items? Share them in the comments. I’d love to hear what works for your family!

Wish us luck, and I’ll let you know how it goes!

Safe travels,
Dalisse

More Travel Essentials:

Suitcase Organizers https://amzn.to/46ogavT

Snack Fun cases https://amzn.to/4ld2wjU

Noise Canceling Headphones https://amzn.to/4lxF68z

Portable battery charger Phone https://amzn.to/4nuZzg0

Universal Charger Adapter https://amzn.to/4ewEVZ0

Universal USB cable https://amzn.to/4ld2j06

Luggage Scale digital https://amzn.to/46neWRu

Mini Pillow Guillermo likes https://amzn.to/4l9HeDN

Any ideas I missed?

As travel enthusiasts and parents of two autistic kids, ages 10 and 4, we understand these challenges firsthand. That’s why we created Loving Pieces Books, a project inspired by our journey as parents navigating autism. Through our books, resources, and experiences, we aim to empower families with tools to build confidence, navigate challenges, and embrace the unique strengths of their autistic children.

We love to travel, but we’ve learned that successful trips require extra planning, flexibility, and patience. Along with Viajando por el mundo Mundial we have made this post, we’ll share some of our best strategies for making travel smoother, plus a FREE downloadable guide packed with practical tips for planning, packing, and handling unexpected situations.

Keep in mind: Every autistic child is different! Some kids need more preparation than others, and some may not require as many sensory accommodations. This guide is designed for all families—just take the tips that best fit your child’s needs.

Choose Autism-Friendly Destinations

Not all travel spots are created equal when it comes to accessibility and sensory accommodations.

We always choose destinations that align with our kids’ interests and sensory preferences. For example, our children love water, so beach destinations or places with pools work best for us. On the other hand, places with loud noises, bright lights, or unpredictable schedules can be overwhelming.

Some autism-friendly travel perks to look for include:

✔️ Theme Parks with Accessibility Programs – Many offer fast passes, quiet spaces, or sensory-friendly times.
✔️ Hotels with Flexible Policies – Some accommodations allow early check-in, fridge access for special dietary needs, or quiet room requests.
✔️ Museums & Attractions with Sensory Guides – Check if they provide visual guides or sensory accommodations.

Plan for Sensory Needs

Changes in environment, loud noises, and crowds can be overwhelming. Preparing in advance makes all the difference.

✔️ Pack Comfort & Sensory Tools – Noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses for bright spaces, weighted blankets, or favorite toys.
✔️ Bring Safe Foods – If your child has dietary restrictions, pack their preferred snacks or research restaurants ahead of time. (For us, Guillermo only drinks a specific brand of milk, so we make sure to have it available!)
✔️ Create a Calming Space – Even in a hotel room or family member’s house, setting up a quiet retreat with familiar objects can help ease anxiety.

Prepare with Visual Aids & Social Stories

Many autistic kids feel more comfortable when they know what to expect.

We create a travel map for our older son, Adrián, so he can follow along and understand the trip step by step. It makes him feel more in control. You can also:

✔️ Use a Visual Schedule – Show images of each part of the trip (packing, airport, hotel, activities).
✔️ Watch Videos in Advance – Preview airports, hotels, or attractions online to help familiarize them.
✔️ Read Social Stories – These help explain what happens during a flight, road trip, or stay at a new place.

We usually don’t tell our kids about trips too far in advance to avoid prolonged anxiety, but this varies by child—do what works best for your family!

Air Travel Tips: What You Need to Know

Flying can be one of the trickiest parts of traveling with an autistic child, but good preparation makes all the difference.

✔️ Research Airline Accommodations – Emirates is the world’s first autism-certified airline! Some airlines allow pre-boarding or special assistance.
✔️ Use Airport Assistance Programs – TSA Cares (U.S.), AENA’s Invisible Disability Badge (Spain), and Sunflower Lanyards (Europe) can help families navigate security with less stress.
✔️ Pack Distractions & Comfort Items – Fidget toys, downloaded favorite shows, and snacks can help keep your child engaged.
✔️ Boarding Strategy – Some kids do better with pre-boarding, while others prefer to board last to minimize waiting time.

Handling Meltdowns in Uncontrolled Spaces

Meltdowns happen, and that’s okay! But in spaces where you can’t easily leave—like airplanes, ships, or crowded attractions—it’s important to have a game plan:

✔️ Identify “Safe Spots” – Find a quiet corner or rest area in advance.
✔️ Bring a Comfort Toolkit – Noise-canceling headphones, chewables, fidget toys, or a weighted lap pad.
✔️ Communicate with Staff – Flight attendants, cruise staff, and theme park employees are often willing to help if they’re aware of your child’s needs.

Staying with Family? Set Expectations in Advance

Not all relatives will understand autism, and that’s okay. Help them prepare by:

✔️ Explaining What to Expect – Let them know if your child has sensory sensitivities, food preferences, or needs quiet time.
✔️ Bringing Familiar Items – Favorite blankets, toys, or bedtime routines can help your child adjust to a new environment.
✔️ Creating a Safe Space – If the home isn’t autism-friendly, set up a designated quiet area for your child to retreat to when overwhelmed.

Handling Unexpected Challenges

No matter how much you plan, unexpected things happen—like bad weather, sudden sickness, or a closed attraction.

✔️ Prepare for Flexibility – Teach your child that “sometimes things change, and that’s okay.”
✔️ Have Backup Activities – Bring extra entertainment options in case plans need to shift.
✔️ Self-Care for Parents – Travel can be exhausting! Take turns with your partner or support system to get small breaks.

Want More Travel Tips? Download Our Free Guide!

That’s why we created a FREE Autism Travel Guide with:

✔️ A detailed packing checklist
✔️ Sensory-friendly travel strategies
✔️ Real-life tips for handling meltdowns in new environments

📩 Download your free guide here: https://mailchi.mp/14d44e0cabd9/mjk0taqwjc

Traveling with an autistic child is possible and it can even be fun! With the right preparation, you can create wonderful family memories while making sure your child feels safe and supported every step of the way.

Do you have any travel experiences or tips to share? Drop them in the comments, we’d love to hear from you!

With love,

Dalisse and Luis

Lovingpiecesbooks.com

Ever feel like the world expects your autistic child to fit into a mold that just doesn’t work for them? I know I have. As a mom to two amazing autistic boys (ages 4 and 11) and an autistic adult myself, I’ve seen firsthand how confidence isn’t about making our kids “fit in” it’s about helping them feel safe, valued, and celebrated for exactly who they are.

If you’re reading this, maybe you’re searching for ways to nurture your child’s self-esteem without adding pressure or expecting them to be someone they’re not.

Trust me, you’re not alone. Confidence for our kiddos doesn’t come from one big leap, it grows from a hundred tiny moments: small choices, gentle encouragement, and the unspoken message that they belong, just as they are.

Here are five gentle, real-life strategies that have made a difference in our house and might just help in yours, too.

1. Let them lead (even in the little things)

So often, decisions are made for our autistic kids, and sometimes out of necessity, just because it’s faster, and in many cases easier for us parents. But giving them agency, even in the tiniest moments, is powerful.

Let them choose their socks. Decide which book to read at bedtime. Pick the order of their morning routine. These “you decide” moments tell your child, “Your voice matters.” And every time they make a choice, their confidence grows a little more. And sometimes it evens avoid a meltdown!

Tip: In our Confidence-Boosting Workbook, there’s a page for kids to express their preferences visually, perfect for non-speaking or minimally verbal kids, too. We made this workbook out of our experience with both our kids, we have to be very visual since Guille and Adri learn better this way.

Grab the free workbook here.

2. Celebrate effort, not outcome

It’s so easy to focus on results—did they finish the puzzle, get the answer right, make it through the playdate? But real confidence comes from knowing that trying matters just as much as succeeding.

Instead of “Good job for getting it right,” try:

• “You kept going, even when it got tough!”
• “You asked for help and that’s brave.”
• “You were nervous, but you gave it a try. I’m so proud of you.”

This helps your child see that their value isn’t tied to perfection. It’s about persistence, courage, and being themselves.

3. Create predictable wins

Confidence loves predictability. When our kids know what to expect, and have a chance to succeed at something meaningful to them, their self-esteem blooms.

In our home, we create “predictable wins” by:

• Using visual checklists they can track themselves
• Giving “quiet hero” awards for self-regulation or kindness
• Setting up simple routines with positive reinforcement

Need help creating visual wins? Our workbook has printable routines and reward charts sensory-friendly and easy to use.
Grab the free workbook here.

4. Use visual affirmations every day

For visual learners (like my boys!), seeing positive words every day is so powerful. We stick affirmations on the fridge, bathroom mirror, even have them in our phones. When we repeat them together, it’s a ritual, not a lecture. We always try to make it fun, and not like “homework”

Some of our favorites:

• “I can try things in my own way.”
• “I’m allowed to ask for help.”
• “My brain is different, and that’s a good thing.”

Head over to the freebies section in the wed we have some free affirmation cards too 🙂

5. Model confidence (imperfectly)

Our kids are always watching us even when we think they’re not. Let them see you try new things, mess up, get nervous, and ask for help. Narrate your feelings out loud: “I feel a little anxious, but I’m going to try anyway.” Show them that confidence isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being real, and being kind to yourself along the way.

Confidence doesn’t grow in silence. It grows every time our kids hear us say, “I believe in you”—and every time we show them how to believe in themselves, with tools that are visual, practical, and emotionally safe.

If you’re looking for a gentle way to start building that confidence today, download our free Confidence-Boosting Workbook for Autistic Kids. It’s filled with simple exercises, affirmation cards, and visual supports designed to help you and your child grow together.

And for a deeper dive, I’m so proud to share our beautifully illustrated children’s book:

Autism: Confidence Starts Here

Available worldwide on Amazon. This heartwarming story follows Adrián, my oldest son who learns to embrace his unique strengths and build resilience through relatable adventures and affirmations. It’s packed with practical strategies for parents and empowering messages for kids, making it a perfect companion on your family’s journey toward self-acceptance and pride. For children ages 6-12.

Get your copy of Autism: Confidence Starts Here on Amazon today.

You’ve got this. And more importantly, so do they.

With warmth and understanding,
Dalisse
Autistic Mom
lovingpiecesbooks.com