Navigating Autism Together Through Social Emotional Learning
Guide to gently motivating autistic children to try new foods and activities by understanding sensory challenges, celebrating small victories, and building supportive communities for shared growth.
Support autistic children through routine changes with small steps, visual aids, emotional acknowledgment, and a strong community for smoother transitions and increased adaptability.
Guide to nurturing independence in autistic children through empathy, consistent routines, celebrating small wins, encouraging decision-making, and facing challenges with support and humor.
“Why does Adrián get to stay home from Grandma’s party, but I have to go?”
My neurotypical 3-year-old niece asked me this during a family gathering. And honestly? I didn’t have a good answer ready.
Because how do you explain to a child that their autistic cousin isn’t “getting away with” something, he’s protecting his nervous system from complete overwhelm?
How do you help cousins or even siblings understand autism in a way that builds empathy instead of resentment?
Guide to nurturing self-advocacy in autistic children: start early, build confidence through stories, create inclusive environments, encourage choice, foster supportive communities, and celebrate neurodiversity.
This guide offers strategies to nurture self-advocacy in autistic children through communication, safe spaces, boundary-setting, SEL tools, inclusive education, and collaborative support with families and educators.
A good friend of Adrián told me at pick-up “Adrián, Is SO tired, but he was acting normal all day.”
“What do you mean, ‘acting normal’?” I asked..
“You know… making eye contact. Not stimming. Sitting still. Acting like other kids.”
My heart broke. Because I realized: my son was masking. And he was exhausted from it.
Five o’clock pickup. Every day.
I watch Adrián walk out of school, and I can see it, the weight he’s been carrying all day finally starting to show.
His shoulders are tense. His face is tight. His usual animated energy? Gone!
By the time we get to the car, he’s barely speaking. And by the time we get home? Full meltdown!
The first time Adrián had a public meltdown, I felt like the entire world was watching me fail as a mother.
We were at a park, should have been joyful, playful. Instead, I was sitting on a bench with my 3-year-old son, both of us crying, while nobody could help us.
I didn’t understand what was happening. I didn’t know how to help him. And I felt so utterly, completely alone.
That park moment? That’s where “Autism: Calming the Chaos” was born……
Understanding the difference between meltdowns and tantrums in autistic children aids effective support. Use emotional regulation strategies, create supportive environments, seek resources, and celebrate neurodiversity.
