Author Archives: Ellen Brady

Fixations for the Autistic Brain

High interest-fixation If you are a parent of an autistic child, then you understand the wave of fixations that can come over your child. My child gets fixated on costumes. The costumes become a way of expression for him, but they act more like his alter ego. His other self takes over to cope withContinue reading “Fixations for the Autistic Brain”

Consequences for Behavior

Ruby Franke’s idea of consequences Consequences should encourage responsibility. In recent events, Ruby Franke was arrested for child abuse. Her idea of supporting responsibility in her children was to remove their basic need of food. Perhaps she went without eating and dieted because adults can do that sometimes for interval fasting. However, a child whoContinue reading “Consequences for Behavior”

The Sometimes of Autism Regulation

Sometimes autism will take over. The reaction is to shut out the world with a scrunch down in his body, covering his ears, or placing his hands over his head. As a mom, my reaction is to do nothing in this case. I don’t force him to stand up or react in a neurotypical wayContinue reading “The Sometimes of Autism Regulation”

Future of my autistic son, an ordinary day at an indoor park

Will it always be like this? Will my son want to run away when it gets tough in his mind? Public places that are brimming over with noise are not always the best place. However, these places are the best places. In the autistic brain of my child PLACES can be scary. Sudden challenges ropeContinue reading “Future of my autistic son, an ordinary day at an indoor park”

Emotional Regulation

How can aggression and frustration be regulated? https://www.facebook.com/specialneedslessons/videos/443497414066437 For a child with autism, this is no easy task. Sometimes, as a mom, I am left frustrated and angry when I see that nothing works. Aggression Aggression is different from frustration. Aggression is when your child starts with yelling, then throwing, then hitting oftentimes. Sometimes thatContinue reading “Emotional Regulation”

Is it OK to Use the Word Push Instead of Challenge Your Child?

Yes, I push my children. I am not scared to say it. Pushing is challenging. But, I know about the safe words that are used around children with special needs. If I say “push” I am looked upon as a overbearing mother. If I say “challenge” then I am looked upon wanting the best forContinue reading “Is it OK to Use the Word Push Instead of Challenge Your Child?”

What is the Best Way to Teach Children with Autism and Special Needs?

When we are homeschooling our children during these times, I know it is a daunting task. A parent may want to just give up and throw their hands up in the air. I know that I wanted to do that at first. But, we are in the fight together and to help each other. ThisContinue reading “What is the Best Way to Teach Children with Autism and Special Needs?”

It’s Been a While, But I am Still Here! Who is Like a Welcome Friend Right Now?

Ok, I feel for any parent who is juggling a lot right now. Give yourself a much needed break this Memorial Day Weekend. I know we are all juggling so many different aspects right now. For me, it is all about juggling my tech. job, online teaching job, kid’s work including disciplining and management, keepingContinue reading “It’s Been a While, But I am Still Here! Who is Like a Welcome Friend Right Now?”

#Quarantined Together: We are in this Together or are we?

Cultural Standards Remain even in a Health Crises! Unfortunately, our society has to change its cultural nature for us to be in this together. The “this” is obviously COVID-19. Believe me there is no hashtag or cute and trendy way for me to believe that #stayinghome is comfortable. I have three kids who are allContinue reading “#Quarantined Together: We are in this Together or are we?”