From Kim:
Here at the Autism Treatment Center of America we start our week with intentions that we carry out throughout the week.
On Monday morning we all sit down as a group and wake our minds and hearts up with inspiring words about the work we do and the families we get to share ourselves with. We choose to take this moment to become completely present within ourselves. Once we take this moment to ground ourselves, we set an intention for that week- often our intentions are focused on the following:
LOVING FULLY, APPRECIATION, GRATITUDE, SEEKING JOY, TRUST, STRENGTH IN WHAT WE KNOW, AWARENESS, BEING PRESENT -MOMENT FOR MOMENT, THE DESIRE TO BE DARING, SEEKING CLARITY, BEING PASSIONATE... and the list continues to grow week after week :)
These intentions are a way for us to focus and ground ourselves for the week we are about to embark on-- a week with a new family and a new autistic friend! We set intentions as a way for our team of Son-Rise staff to start a new week completely present, ready to offer ourselves and our guidance with conviction and purpose. We set intentions for the families, and for the children, but also for ourselves- as it all starts with each one of us!
I encourage all of you to do the same-- and set an intention for your day, your week, month, etc. and enjoy carrying out this intention! Please keep us posted on your intentions as we absolutely love being inspired by you!!
Much much LOVE,
Kim
Monday, January 31, 2011
Friday, January 28, 2011
Games With Simple Rules
From Kate Wilde:
Hello!
"Plays games and activities that have simple rules and structure." This is a stage three flexibility goal in The Son-Rise Program developmental model.
Below is a video suggesting great starter games to help your child achieve this goal.
Hello!
"Plays games and activities that have simple rules and structure." This is a stage three flexibility goal in The Son-Rise Program developmental model.
Below is a video suggesting great starter games to help your child achieve this goal.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Assumptions and Autism
FROM BECKY: We DON'T KNOW what our Son-Rise Program children are THINKING or FEELING until they tell us! We only know what they are DOING. We can make assessments from their actions to help them in the best way but we can NEVER really know what they FEEL and THINK unless they say.
When we assume that our child is "Frustrated", "Anxious", "Nervous", "Bored", etc, we CLOSE doors. When we look at their actions and do not decide for ourselves how they feel, we OPEN doorways of OPPORTUNITY!
Instead of assuming how your child feels, look at what they are doing instead. Perhaps what looks "bored" to you, could be them isming, maybe when they look "Frustrated" to you they are simply trying to communicate something.
When we simply take into account their actions and not assume the way they feel, we move TOWARDS our children and not AWAY from them. We are more RELAXED instead of more NERVOUS, we are more CONFIDENT instead of more TENTATIVE and we are more CLEAR instead of CONFUSED about how to help them.
Lots of Love xxx
When we assume that our child is "Frustrated", "Anxious", "Nervous", "Bored", etc, we CLOSE doors. When we look at their actions and do not decide for ourselves how they feel, we OPEN doorways of OPPORTUNITY!
Instead of assuming how your child feels, look at what they are doing instead. Perhaps what looks "bored" to you, could be them isming, maybe when they look "Frustrated" to you they are simply trying to communicate something.
When we simply take into account their actions and not assume the way they feel, we move TOWARDS our children and not AWAY from them. We are more RELAXED instead of more NERVOUS, we are more CONFIDENT instead of more TENTATIVE and we are more CLEAR instead of CONFUSED about how to help them.
Lots of Love xxx
26 and still growing.
From Kate Wilde:
This week at The Son-Rise Intensive Program we have a 26 year old man here with his family. One of his isms is closing his eyes, while making a rhythmic clicking sound with his tongue. as I watch him he looks so peaceful and purposeful like a Yogi in prayer.
On Monday he spent most of the day with his eyes closed. Tuesday he began to open them for short periods of time. Today he has been belly laughing as Kim our Son-Rise Program facilitator sings songs as she dances around the room, and has been participating in throwing balls, getting hand massages and initiating interaction with us.
He is interacting, doing things that his parents feared he would not be able to do, he is doing this at age 26.
He is proof that you can still grow no matter your age or your diagnosis.
Never give up hope.
This week at The Son-Rise Intensive Program we have a 26 year old man here with his family. One of his isms is closing his eyes, while making a rhythmic clicking sound with his tongue. as I watch him he looks so peaceful and purposeful like a Yogi in prayer.
On Monday he spent most of the day with his eyes closed. Tuesday he began to open them for short periods of time. Today he has been belly laughing as Kim our Son-Rise Program facilitator sings songs as she dances around the room, and has been participating in throwing balls, getting hand massages and initiating interaction with us.
He is interacting, doing things that his parents feared he would not be able to do, he is doing this at age 26.
He is proof that you can still grow no matter your age or your diagnosis.
Never give up hope.
Monday, January 24, 2011
It's Never too Late to Set Your Intention!
FROM BECKY: Here at The Autism Treatment Center of America we often talk about the power of intention and how creating an intention for ourselves can really help us to go for what we want in a stronger and more focused way. For example, if I am going in the Son-Rise Program playroom, my intention might be "To have as much fun as possible" or "To be loving and accepting of myself at all times").
With that mind set, I can jump in to focusing my thoughts, energy and presence into the session in a more clear and purposeful way. Without an intention, I feel scattered, unfocused and unclear. Setting an intention before you go into the playroom is an amazing tool and I very much encourage you to try it. For those of you who already do this on a regular basis, please know that you can start at any time.
For instance, say you woke up late, you forgot your doctors appointment, just had time to shove down some breakfast and you are running into the playroom, your head is somewhere else the beginning part of your playroom time with your child. You don't feel present, you miss his/her cues and you are not sure what to do next when he/she comes to play with you. You realize...you forgot to set your intention! Well, it's never too late, even if you have just 10 more minutes until your session is over, take a minute to settle your mind, take a deep breath and set your intention. Even 10 minutes of feeling more focused can make all the difference to you and your child!
The more you do this, the more you will want to set an intention during other parts of the day (e.g., waking up in the morning, you could set an intention to be playful today. As you talk to your Mother on the phone, you could set an intention to really listen, without interrupting, you could set an intention to be more loving with your spouse today....the list goes on).
I would love to know what your intention is today?
Belief
From Kate Wilde:
I am reading a book called, "The Fighters Mind" by Sam Sheridan. He interviews many great fighters, boxers, Jiu-jitsu and more. Each great fighter talks in their own way about the notion that one has to believe that there is another level to aspire to. If you do not you will not grow.
How can you get to a level you do not believe exists, or is possible?
How can we help our children on the Autism Spectrum grow socially if we do not believe that there is another level that they can get to?
What is the next level for your child?
Love to each of you
Kate
I am reading a book called, "The Fighters Mind" by Sam Sheridan. He interviews many great fighters, boxers, Jiu-jitsu and more. Each great fighter talks in their own way about the notion that one has to believe that there is another level to aspire to. If you do not you will not grow.
How can you get to a level you do not believe exists, or is possible?
How can we help our children on the Autism Spectrum grow socially if we do not believe that there is another level that they can get to?
What is the next level for your child?
Love to each of you
Kate
Friday, January 21, 2011
Games Games Games!
From Kate Wilde:
A short and simple game from The Autism Treatment Center of America designed to help your child use context when relaying a story or event to another person.
Remember to use The Son-Rise Program technique of only introducing this game when your child has given you a sustained green light. To learn more about what your child's green lights are call The Autism Treatment Center and book a phone consultation with one of our experience Son-Rise Program Teachers.
Have Fun in your playrooms!!!!
With love Kate
A short and simple game from The Autism Treatment Center of America designed to help your child use context when relaying a story or event to another person.
Remember to use The Son-Rise Program technique of only introducing this game when your child has given you a sustained green light. To learn more about what your child's green lights are call The Autism Treatment Center and book a phone consultation with one of our experience Son-Rise Program Teachers.
Have Fun in your playrooms!!!!
With love Kate
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Worlds of Wonder-Thinking about Autism
From Amanda:
I am writing to share with you, an experience I had while driving to work at the Autism treatment Center of America, in the middle of a blizzard one blustery day last week. My typical drive to work begins at 8:00am and my arrival is at 8:30am. On this particular morning, I wanted to be sure to allow at least an hour to get to work, and I wanted to arrive early to ensure the staff and families were safe and cared for.
As I pulled out of my driveway at 6:00am in my mid-sized 4 wheel drive, I felt confident as a driver, for I have been a life-long resident of Berkshire County and have driven in many snow storms. Only a few of us were on the roads at this time-in these conditions. The wind was blowing hard and the snow was falling fast. It was difficult to see more than a few feet in front of me due to the blinding snow. This was certainly going to be an adventure.
Approximately ten minutes into the drive and having gone just under three miles, I began to doubt myself as a driver and wondered if I would make it to work in one piece. My windshield kept freezing up due to the extreme cold so I had only a little patch of window I could see through. This was turning into a much more dangerous ride than I had ever anticipated. I could feel my body begin to tense up as I gripped the steering wheel for dear life. The world outside had virtually become unpredictable and felt unsafe. At this point, I was getting myself so upset and nervous that I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to take care of myself.
Then, as suddenly as I invited the feeling of fear into my mind, I decided to let it go and brought forth a completely different and very beautiful picture. I decided that driving in the snow storm was like driving in a metaphor of being Autistic. The whipping snow outside the car was my unpredictable, distracting world, and my car was my safe place. My eyes became focused on the small patch of ice free window space with a new calm and wonder. The snow was no longer scary to me, and instead it was mesmerizing. The the once monstrous sound of the tires had become a relaxing reminder of my safe travel.
Upon my safe arrival at work, I continued this feeling of euphoria and gratitude. I found myself thanking these amazing parents,for giving me the gift of working with their children each week. I then thanked the children for teaching me how to love the world around me to customize the experience to make it more digestible.
The next time you are in a potentially unsafe and unpredictable circumstance, know that you can create a completely amazing experience from within as a way to take care of yourself. Think about Autism.
I am writing to share with you, an experience I had while driving to work at the Autism treatment Center of America, in the middle of a blizzard one blustery day last week. My typical drive to work begins at 8:00am and my arrival is at 8:30am. On this particular morning, I wanted to be sure to allow at least an hour to get to work, and I wanted to arrive early to ensure the staff and families were safe and cared for.
As I pulled out of my driveway at 6:00am in my mid-sized 4 wheel drive, I felt confident as a driver, for I have been a life-long resident of Berkshire County and have driven in many snow storms. Only a few of us were on the roads at this time-in these conditions. The wind was blowing hard and the snow was falling fast. It was difficult to see more than a few feet in front of me due to the blinding snow. This was certainly going to be an adventure.
Approximately ten minutes into the drive and having gone just under three miles, I began to doubt myself as a driver and wondered if I would make it to work in one piece. My windshield kept freezing up due to the extreme cold so I had only a little patch of window I could see through. This was turning into a much more dangerous ride than I had ever anticipated. I could feel my body begin to tense up as I gripped the steering wheel for dear life. The world outside had virtually become unpredictable and felt unsafe. At this point, I was getting myself so upset and nervous that I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to take care of myself.
Then, as suddenly as I invited the feeling of fear into my mind, I decided to let it go and brought forth a completely different and very beautiful picture. I decided that driving in the snow storm was like driving in a metaphor of being Autistic. The whipping snow outside the car was my unpredictable, distracting world, and my car was my safe place. My eyes became focused on the small patch of ice free window space with a new calm and wonder. The snow was no longer scary to me, and instead it was mesmerizing. The the once monstrous sound of the tires had become a relaxing reminder of my safe travel.
Upon my safe arrival at work, I continued this feeling of euphoria and gratitude. I found myself thanking these amazing parents,for giving me the gift of working with their children each week. I then thanked the children for teaching me how to love the world around me to customize the experience to make it more digestible.
The next time you are in a potentially unsafe and unpredictable circumstance, know that you can create a completely amazing experience from within as a way to take care of yourself. Think about Autism.
Anticipating What We Don't Want
From Kate Wilde:
Anticipating what we don't want.
A couple of days ago I had a phone consultation with a Father. We talked about his Son-Rise Program for his daughter who is diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum. She is 8 years old and loves to button push. She will look at him and throw her drink on the floor, tear books, take of her clothes and draw on the wall , mainly it seemed to see how her father was going to react.
As we talked in depth about how he felt when his daughter did these actions he realized that it was not his reaction after his daughter had drawn on the wall or thrown the food, it was his anticipation and his fear that she was going to button push in this way.
This morning he sent me an email letting me know that by realizing that he was having a reaction even before his daughter button pushed, he was able to start to noticed each time he anticipated, by noticing this he then was able to change it, relax into the moment and not believe or fear that she was going to button push
This he said changed everything. She has stopped ALL her button pushing for the last two days.
Are you anticipating what you don't want verses being present with what is in this moment?
Anticipating what we don't want.
A couple of days ago I had a phone consultation with a Father. We talked about his Son-Rise Program for his daughter who is diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum. She is 8 years old and loves to button push. She will look at him and throw her drink on the floor, tear books, take of her clothes and draw on the wall , mainly it seemed to see how her father was going to react.
As we talked in depth about how he felt when his daughter did these actions he realized that it was not his reaction after his daughter had drawn on the wall or thrown the food, it was his anticipation and his fear that she was going to button push in this way.
This morning he sent me an email letting me know that by realizing that he was having a reaction even before his daughter button pushed, he was able to start to noticed each time he anticipated, by noticing this he then was able to change it, relax into the moment and not believe or fear that she was going to button push
This he said changed everything. She has stopped ALL her button pushing for the last two days.
Are you anticipating what you don't want verses being present with what is in this moment?
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
I'm off to see The Start -Up, the Wonderful Start-Up in the UK...
FROM SIMONE - ...Because, because, because, because because is the most wonderful week in the World!! (sing to the melody of the Wizard of Oz song title)
Ok it didn't rhyme, but that is how I feel when I volunteer at a Son-Rise Start-Up Program, I feel like singing, like if life was a magical movie and with no wicked witches in sight!
If you haven't had the joy of experiencing a Son-Rise Start-Up Program, consider attending the next one, it is such an amazing adventure, it is priceless.
I still remember vividly when I attended my Start-Up back in 2005. My son was about to be diagnosed but there was no doubt in any one's mind as the name autism was already creeping from all different practitioner lips like a cold winter gale. Not just the word autism but the prognosis of a wasted life, wasted dreams.
However, upon hearing the name autism I remembered a television film I watched as a child called in my Portuguese mother tongue "My son, my World" in which this American couple recovered their child from autism. The cute little boy only rocked back and forth and span plates, but his Mum joined him in his solitary play and established a connection with him. I found at the time the concept so beautiful I just watched the movie several times, I remember always looking for it on TV lists since at the time there was no such a thing as home recording facilities. Little I knew that like that Mum I too would be rocking with my own son several years later.
I searched for the film title in Portuguese on the Internet and for the first time I heard the word Son-Rise. There was a Start-Up in London only months away and I didn't hesitate, I knew that was what I wanted for my son.
From the moment I enrolled in the course the staff at the Option Institute never seized to amaze me in their kindness and happiness, yes happiness, it was so refreshing, everywhere I went when I pronounced the word autism I was met with wild looks, pity looks, sad looks, I got weary of so much negativity, but at the Start-Up it was different, people greeted me with a smile, they looked me in the eye and I saw hope.
From that magical week in 2005 I have never looked back, never again the word autism meant despair in my household but just fun, yes I do go through many of the sleepless nights, tantrums and other antics that autism Parents go through, but I know that happiness is not linked to what happens to me but to my choice.
Now excuse me, talking about the Start-Up I just want to sing again... I'm off to see the Start-Up...
This year's UK Son-Rise Start-Up Program starts this Monday the 24th January 2011 until Friday the 28th January 2011 in London Bridge, London. Check the Calendar at the Autism Treatment Center of America for other dates in America.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
A New Years Wish!
FROM BECKY: As I have mentioned before, I currently volunteer in a Son-Rise Program with my awesome 7 year old autistic friend David who I have volunteered with for two and a half years. Recently, all David's volunteers and his family, gathered together to have a team holiday party. Part of why we had gathered was to celebrate the wonderful year we had just had with David and each create a wish for the New Year.
I was already amazed that when I had given David his Christmas present, he had said "Thank you" to me (I have never heard him say it before), but after we went around and shared our wishes, we turned to David (who had just sat on his Dad's lap) and asked, "Is there anything that you wish for David?"
David sat and looked at each and every one of us in turn with a huge smile upon his face, then slowly but surely he said "I..............want..........a tickle!", with that, we all leaped up and gave him lots of tickles. Well, what more could you ask for?
Lots of love xxx
I was already amazed that when I had given David his Christmas present, he had said "Thank you" to me (I have never heard him say it before), but after we went around and shared our wishes, we turned to David (who had just sat on his Dad's lap) and asked, "Is there anything that you wish for David?"
David sat and looked at each and every one of us in turn with a huge smile upon his face, then slowly but surely he said "I..............want..........a tickle!", with that, we all leaped up and gave him lots of tickles. Well, what more could you ask for?
Lots of love xxx
Monday, January 17, 2011
What is enough?
From Kate Wilde: Am I enough? Am I doing enough? Will I be enough? These are questions that parents of children on the autism spectrum and parents of neuro typical children often ask themselves. These questions are often accompanied by a fear or a judgment that they are not enough.
When I ask a parent to define what enough is, the answers are often result oriented about something their child does in the future. When talking about their special child they may say "If my child changes then I know that I have done enough". Concerning their neuro typical children they may say, "If my child grows into a stable successful adult then I would have done enough". By doing this we will wait to feel enough until we see a result, feeling insecure and worrying until that time in the future, robbing ourselves of a happy and confident moment now.
There will always be more that you could have done, something else you could have tried, a different path you could have taken. When parenting any child there is always something more to do as you lay your tired head upon the pillow to sleep. So what is enough?
Whatever you managed to get done that day - that is enough.
What is more important? That you feel good about what you are doing now, offering your child a confident and happy parent - or what you could have done?
When I ask a parent to define what enough is, the answers are often result oriented about something their child does in the future. When talking about their special child they may say "If my child changes then I know that I have done enough". Concerning their neuro typical children they may say, "If my child grows into a stable successful adult then I would have done enough". By doing this we will wait to feel enough until we see a result, feeling insecure and worrying until that time in the future, robbing ourselves of a happy and confident moment now.
There will always be more that you could have done, something else you could have tried, a different path you could have taken. When parenting any child there is always something more to do as you lay your tired head upon the pillow to sleep. So what is enough?
Whatever you managed to get done that day - that is enough.
What is more important? That you feel good about what you are doing now, offering your child a confident and happy parent - or what you could have done?
Friday, January 14, 2011
Balloons Away!
Good morning Great Son-Rise Program Parents!
More games ideas from The Autism Treatment Center of America.
For all of us who work regularly with the same child, it is useful to get real creative with the toys that we bring into the playroom. It is not about going out to buy new toys, but thinking about how we can use the toys we already have to create new and different games. Each toy we have can be used in countless ways. The trick is to open up our mind to see the many games we can create from one simple toy.
For inspiration click on the video below that contains some games you can play with a balloon.
The trick to coming up with new ways to use the same toy is not to judge your idea, but embrace it as your most ingenious idea yet!!!
With love to you and your beautiful children on the autism spectrum.
Kate
More games ideas from The Autism Treatment Center of America.
For all of us who work regularly with the same child, it is useful to get real creative with the toys that we bring into the playroom. It is not about going out to buy new toys, but thinking about how we can use the toys we already have to create new and different games. Each toy we have can be used in countless ways. The trick is to open up our mind to see the many games we can create from one simple toy.
For inspiration click on the video below that contains some games you can play with a balloon.
The trick to coming up with new ways to use the same toy is not to judge your idea, but embrace it as your most ingenious idea yet!!!
With love to you and your beautiful children on the autism spectrum.
Kate
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Ain't Nothing Gonna Break Our Stride ...
Ain't Nothing Gonna Break Our Stride
Nobody's Gonna Slow Us Down
Oh No, We've Got to Keep On Moving
This New Year, 2011, I decided is gonna be the best year yet for Tyler and I. I am going to push the limit. Find a way to get Tyler to a two week intensive. Set up Outreaches and Video Consults. Make each day in the playroom with Tyler a 110% day. Be the best student I possibly can for Tyler's Son-Rise program and the Option Process. Read, Read, Read. Study, Study, Study. Learn, Learn, Learn. Stay in the Present. Organize better so I dont become overwhelmed. Schedule certain times during the day to read Son-Rise and Option Blogs, Review and participate on Bears's facebook wall, Fulfill my committment to blog twice a week on the Son-Rise and Option blog sites, Stay connected on facebook with my awesome Friends ~ Extended Family of Son-Rise ~ Parents of special needs who are all walking this journey with us cheering us and supporting us as I happily do with their journeys whatever it may be. To live and breathe my Passion and make it even bigger. Be a Force of Nature and make my dreams come true. To Each Day Choose Happiness, Love, Peace in Every Step ...to name a few
Well, its now two weeks into the new year and it hasnt exactly gone as planned. The first of the year began with one less member of Tyler's Son-Rise Program. Tyler's program is now being run with just two of us. The last two members of Tyler's Son-Rise team said some really horible things about Tyler that werent true. This happens. I know that what they say is all about them and not about Tyler. I see this as an opportunity to regroup my wants for Tyler's program. As a single mom, less members in Tyler's Son-Rise program means less time for me to be able to get done all the things I want and need to do. I am doing the best I can to accomplish what I set out to do in 2011. Thats all I ask of myself. New members are coming soon for Tyler's program. So, my new year hasnt gone as planned - So What! Must be a reason. Do I feel like a failure? Heck No! I dont believe in failure. Im just walking Tall and enjoying the ride no matter which way the path turns. Am I giving up? No Chance! Running Our Race til the End. Am I exhausted? You better believe it!!! However, I am moving forward knowing ...
Ain't Nothing Gonna Break Our Stride
Nobody's Gonna Slow Us Down
Oh No, We've Got to Keep On Moving
My Passion: Tyler's Son-Rise Program and the Option Process
My Deepest Gratitude for Strength to Keep Moving Forward: God, Tyler, Bears and Samahria Kaufman, Raun Kaufman, The Autism Treatment Center of America and Staff, The Option Institute and Staff and My Friends and Extended Family that are walking this journey with us - cheering and supporting us!
Lots of Love to you all and the Best of 2011!
Jamie and Tyler
Build Yourself into Your Childs World
FROM BECKY: It is very common for children with autism to be interested in things, objects, pictures, characters, actions and not in people. A very simple Son-Rise Program technique to inspire your child to become more motivated in YOU is to build YOURSELF into the activity.
Wait for a green light from your child (a cue that they are interested, such as a look, a verbalization or a physical touch) and then marry YOURSELF to the object/picture/character/action they are interested in.
For example, if they are looking at a picture of Cookie Monster in a book and come over to show you, instead of talking about the picture, put on your best Cookie Monster Impression and become that character. If your child likes trains and gives you a look as you are rolling them back and fourth, roll the train up your arm and onto your head, bringing attention to your eyes and face. If you are drawing a cherry tree and they look at your picture, pretend to gobble the cherries up in a fun, slapstick way. If they like talking about toilets over and over again and they pause, pretend to be a toilet flushing and get up and act it out.
When you bring YOURSELF into these moments, YOU will be more visually stimulating for your child to watch and engage with, YOU will help them to notice that PEOPLE make the world go around and not "things" and YOU will also be able to create more connection, eye contact and a longer attention span for your child.
P.S. IT'S ALSO REALLY, REALLY FUN!
Wait for a green light from your child (a cue that they are interested, such as a look, a verbalization or a physical touch) and then marry YOURSELF to the object/picture/character/action they are interested in.
For example, if they are looking at a picture of Cookie Monster in a book and come over to show you, instead of talking about the picture, put on your best Cookie Monster Impression and become that character. If your child likes trains and gives you a look as you are rolling them back and fourth, roll the train up your arm and onto your head, bringing attention to your eyes and face. If you are drawing a cherry tree and they look at your picture, pretend to gobble the cherries up in a fun, slapstick way. If they like talking about toilets over and over again and they pause, pretend to be a toilet flushing and get up and act it out.
When you bring YOURSELF into these moments, YOU will be more visually stimulating for your child to watch and engage with, YOU will help them to notice that PEOPLE make the world go around and not "things" and YOU will also be able to create more connection, eye contact and a longer attention span for your child.
P.S. IT'S ALSO REALLY, REALLY FUN!
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
A Snap Shot From A Son-Rise Program Playroom
From Kate Wilde:
A tiny three year old boy in the smallest pair of jeans stares with a blank expression on his face at a wall. His hands lightly touching the back of his jeans. So still and silent as he stares at the wall. Beside him a Son-Rise Program facilitator stares at the wall her hands lightly touching the back of her jogging pants. So still and silent as she stares at the wall.
One minute goes by, neither move or speak.
Two minutes go by, neither move or speak.
Three minutes go by, neither move or speak.
Four minutes , Five minutes, Six and then Seven minutes go by.
Not a movement nor a word is created or shared.
Only the stare and the stillness unite the two.
On the eighth minute the tiny boy turns to the Son-Rise Program facilitator and Says "Change my diaper."
The Son-Rise Program Facilitator breaks into smiles and cheers for this child's beautiful communication, and being the super user friendly person that she is checks his diaper for him.
After this is done, the tiny boy goes back to staring at the wall, so still and silent as he stares. The Son-Rise program facilitator too goes back to stare - so still and silent as she joins this tiny boy.
One minute, two minutes, three minutes, four and then five minutes go by.
Not a movement or a word is shared.
Only the stare and the stillness unites the two.
On the sixth minute this tiny boy turns to the Son-Rise Program facilitator and says, " dum dum dum something dum eat."
The facilitator again full of smiles, delight and celebration for this communication in her super user friendly way runs to get this lovely boy something to eat. For the next 8 minutes they play an eat game together, this tiny boys hold the hand of the facilitator, allows himself to be picked up and kissed on the cheek and hand and says a 5 word clear sentence, "Give me something to eat."
This interaction was initiated and lead by this tiny boy. When we allow our children to show us the way, when we give them the chance to tell us when they are ready for interaction the quality of how they participate and play with us is deeper. Their learning more substantial and sustained.
Let your children lead the way.
A tiny three year old boy in the smallest pair of jeans stares with a blank expression on his face at a wall. His hands lightly touching the back of his jeans. So still and silent as he stares at the wall. Beside him a Son-Rise Program facilitator stares at the wall her hands lightly touching the back of her jogging pants. So still and silent as she stares at the wall.
One minute goes by, neither move or speak.
Two minutes go by, neither move or speak.
Three minutes go by, neither move or speak.
Four minutes , Five minutes, Six and then Seven minutes go by.
Not a movement nor a word is created or shared.
Only the stare and the stillness unite the two.
On the eighth minute the tiny boy turns to the Son-Rise Program facilitator and Says "Change my diaper."
The Son-Rise Program Facilitator breaks into smiles and cheers for this child's beautiful communication, and being the super user friendly person that she is checks his diaper for him.
After this is done, the tiny boy goes back to staring at the wall, so still and silent as he stares. The Son-Rise program facilitator too goes back to stare - so still and silent as she joins this tiny boy.
One minute, two minutes, three minutes, four and then five minutes go by.
Not a movement or a word is shared.
Only the stare and the stillness unites the two.
On the sixth minute this tiny boy turns to the Son-Rise Program facilitator and says, " dum dum dum something dum eat."
The facilitator again full of smiles, delight and celebration for this communication in her super user friendly way runs to get this lovely boy something to eat. For the next 8 minutes they play an eat game together, this tiny boys hold the hand of the facilitator, allows himself to be picked up and kissed on the cheek and hand and says a 5 word clear sentence, "Give me something to eat."
This interaction was initiated and lead by this tiny boy. When we allow our children to show us the way, when we give them the chance to tell us when they are ready for interaction the quality of how they participate and play with us is deeper. Their learning more substantial and sustained.
Let your children lead the way.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Practice
From Kate Wilde
I started to run maybe 10 weeks ago. This was a complete spontaneous action produced by my body, and my body alone. One day I was walking fast on the tread mill and my body spontaneously started to run. It took me totally by surprise as I had no awareness of telling my body to run, in fact running was the furthest thing from my mind. Mainly because I was - in my mind a terrible runner. Since my teenage years children of 5 could easily out run me in a simple and shortish race.(no kidding - just ask my God children- they always thought this highly amusing.)
Intrigued, and believing that my body must to trying to tell me something I continued to run and managed 7 minutes - wow- I said to myself that felt good. I continued to run and now I am running 50 minutes 5 times a week.
Having just finished a run I am feeling the goodness you get from using your body to its fullness, and thinking how amazing it is that I have now created running into something my mind and body do easily. Although running still feel new to me, my legs and feet are over the initial aches and pains they had when I first started. My legs and arms feel stronger, almost built to run (which I guess they are - only it did not feel like that before), when I begin they do not protest they understand more what is required and I am running easily in a relaxed way.
Now don't get me wrong I have much to do to improve in terms of speed and distance but my body and my mind understand what is required and are willing and able to easily do it. How does this apply to your children on the autism spectrum??? It has taken 10 weeks for my body to comfortably do what it already knew how to do. Your children are mastering skills that they have yet been able to do. Give them time, give them numerous opportunities to practice their skills. Maybe they will get it on the first practice maybe they will need weeks of practice. Take it day by day, opportunity by opportunity. Offer them this, without the push or neediness of our fear that they will never achieve it.
If you put a little on top of a little and keep doing this - soon you see that there is a lot.
I started to run maybe 10 weeks ago. This was a complete spontaneous action produced by my body, and my body alone. One day I was walking fast on the tread mill and my body spontaneously started to run. It took me totally by surprise as I had no awareness of telling my body to run, in fact running was the furthest thing from my mind. Mainly because I was - in my mind a terrible runner. Since my teenage years children of 5 could easily out run me in a simple and shortish race.(no kidding - just ask my God children- they always thought this highly amusing.)
Intrigued, and believing that my body must to trying to tell me something I continued to run and managed 7 minutes - wow- I said to myself that felt good. I continued to run and now I am running 50 minutes 5 times a week.
Having just finished a run I am feeling the goodness you get from using your body to its fullness, and thinking how amazing it is that I have now created running into something my mind and body do easily. Although running still feel new to me, my legs and feet are over the initial aches and pains they had when I first started. My legs and arms feel stronger, almost built to run (which I guess they are - only it did not feel like that before), when I begin they do not protest they understand more what is required and I am running easily in a relaxed way.
Now don't get me wrong I have much to do to improve in terms of speed and distance but my body and my mind understand what is required and are willing and able to easily do it. How does this apply to your children on the autism spectrum??? It has taken 10 weeks for my body to comfortably do what it already knew how to do. Your children are mastering skills that they have yet been able to do. Give them time, give them numerous opportunities to practice their skills. Maybe they will get it on the first practice maybe they will need weeks of practice. Take it day by day, opportunity by opportunity. Offer them this, without the push or neediness of our fear that they will never achieve it.
If you put a little on top of a little and keep doing this - soon you see that there is a lot.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Games Games Games!
Good Morning!
This video blog marks the first for 2011.
The game is designed to encourage our children on the Autism Spectrum to want to interact with us in a variety of different ways. Sometimes our children can limit the way they interact with us to getting squeezes, tickles and rides. This game will encourage your child to interact with simple toys, such as hats, blocks and cars.
Just click on the video below to see our wonderful and playful Son-Rise Program child facilitator Kim Korpady explain and demonstrate the game.
Have fun !!!!!!!
with love
Kate
This video blog marks the first for 2011.
The game is designed to encourage our children on the Autism Spectrum to want to interact with us in a variety of different ways. Sometimes our children can limit the way they interact with us to getting squeezes, tickles and rides. This game will encourage your child to interact with simple toys, such as hats, blocks and cars.
Just click on the video below to see our wonderful and playful Son-Rise Program child facilitator Kim Korpady explain and demonstrate the game.
Have fun !!!!!!!
with love
Kate
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Samahria's favorite resolutions for 2011...and always!
SAMAHRIA'S FAVORITE RESOLUTIONS FOR 2011 … AND ALWAYS! - Make believe I'm wonderful the way I am … rather than making believe I'm not enough or not okay … even if others don't agree. (And keep making believe until there's no space for doubt!)
- Gift myself with a loving feeling before I've achieved what I want (instead of waiting till the end or till I think I'm successful).
- Make every thought into a benefit for myself (e.g. "Ouch! I just cut my finger, and I can use this as an opportunity to be present while I'm cutting … and all the time." OR "Oh, I didn't get what I wanted here. There must be something even better for me in the wings." OR "This person doesn't want to be a friend of mine. Glad to know that, so I can find people to be around that appreciate me."
- Verbalize my thoughts and opinions with love, (and without fear of others' judgments).
- Do and give from a place of knowing that it's what I want to do – for myself!
- See the "funny" in everything (and grow my laughter power).
- Be open to seeing all of me – because every part is good and there to help me.
- I am always being supported by the Universe. I just have to trust it.
[Note: For me, "Resolutions" are MEANINGFUL INTENTIONS and EXCITING ACTIONS to take … not have-to's, which are pressures to perform; and then if I don't, I've failed.] This is a practice and dedication to feeling good about myself and to feeling loving of others, no matter what they do. This is how I want to live and breathe. I may go to other places in myself at times, but I'm allowed, and that doesn't mean bad things about me.
My mantra will remain: "Nothing is more important than my happiness!", which leads to loving. With BIG LOVE, Samahria
DREAM IT...GO FOR IT...BECOME IT!!!
FROM JEANNIE: For those of you who don't know me, I tend to be a very gentle person, and I am very into being caring and peaceful. But did you know I am also TOUGH AND STRONG too?! Well, I only really sort of knew it myself... or maybe I should say realized it...
Recently someone told me they thought I am as tough as ROCKY BALBOA!!! I thought....Really??! Me?! But then they explained that with all I had experienced with Autism and working with my son towards recovery, that I had "taken a lot of hits, but kept getting up again". Then I thought, hey, that's true!
So then I really took in that statement all the way.....I AM tough and I AM strong!!! WOW! How cool!
But guess how I got that way? Yes, that's right! By CHOOSING to BELIEVE in myself, BELIEVE in my child, and to BELIEVE in the possibility of his recovery.... and to GO FOR IT WITH ALL MY HEART AND SOUL AND EVERY OUNCE OF MY BEING :-) Yes, like Rocky, I decided, and devoted myself to this special way of being and loving in the world with all the PASSION AND PERSISTENCE I could muster. I dug DEEP and transformed myself from the inside out.
WHY? Because I wanted my child to recovery more than anything.... and I wanted to be happy and at peace. To this day, it is absolutely the best thing I have ever done!
And guess what??? One of the gifts has been that I am now as tough and strong as Rocky!!! Good for me, hooray for autism, and most of all, HOORAY FOR THE SON-RISE PROGRAM FOR TEACHING ME AND ALL OF US, INCLUDING YOU.... we ARE amazing!!!
SO, GO FOR YOUR DREAMS!!! IT'S THE MOST WONDERFUL AND FANTASTIC JOURNEY EVER!
Namaste Everyone :-)
Recently someone told me they thought I am as tough as ROCKY BALBOA!!! I thought....Really??! Me?! But then they explained that with all I had experienced with Autism and working with my son towards recovery, that I had "taken a lot of hits, but kept getting up again". Then I thought, hey, that's true!
So then I really took in that statement all the way.....I AM tough and I AM strong!!! WOW! How cool!
But guess how I got that way? Yes, that's right! By CHOOSING to BELIEVE in myself, BELIEVE in my child, and to BELIEVE in the possibility of his recovery.... and to GO FOR IT WITH ALL MY HEART AND SOUL AND EVERY OUNCE OF MY BEING :-) Yes, like Rocky, I decided, and devoted myself to this special way of being and loving in the world with all the PASSION AND PERSISTENCE I could muster. I dug DEEP and transformed myself from the inside out.
WHY? Because I wanted my child to recovery more than anything.... and I wanted to be happy and at peace. To this day, it is absolutely the best thing I have ever done!
And guess what??? One of the gifts has been that I am now as tough and strong as Rocky!!! Good for me, hooray for autism, and most of all, HOORAY FOR THE SON-RISE PROGRAM FOR TEACHING ME AND ALL OF US, INCLUDING YOU.... we ARE amazing!!!
SO, GO FOR YOUR DREAMS!!! IT'S THE MOST WONDERFUL AND FANTASTIC JOURNEY EVER!
Namaste Everyone :-)
11 Inspirational Quotes for 2011
“We are all inventors, each sailing out on a voyage of discovery, guided each by a private chart, of which there is no duplicate. The world is all gates, all opportunities.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson
“Happiness is not achieved by the conscious pursuit of happiness; it is generally the by-product of other activities.”
Aldous Huxley
“There is more to life than increasing its speed.”
Mahatma Ghandi
“Your imagination is your preview of life's coming attractions.”
Albert Einstein
“Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall.”
Confucius
“Nurture your mind with great thoughts. To believe in the heroic makes heroes.”
Benjamin Disraeli
“Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.”
T. S. Elliot
"Success is never final. Failure is never fatal. It is courage that counts."
Winston Churchill
“All our dreams can come true – if we have the courage to pursue them.”
Walt Disney
“There are no ordinary moments. There is always something going on.”
Peaceful Warrior
“Throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
Mark Twain
Fear Can not Exist in the Present Moment!
FROM BECKY: Hello beautiful people! I want to share with you an experience I had during the holidays where I was once again able to use one of the Son-Rise Program strategies in a challenging situation.
I was driving towards Boston, MA on the I90 with my best friend for a short get away, when a blizzard hit. The traffic started to grind to a halt and as night fell, the snow was coming down so hard and blowing all over the place, the visibility got poorer, and to add to things, my windshield washer squirter stopped working and the ice build up on my wipers was making it harder and harder to see by the second.
We had still 15 miles to go until our exit and by now it was pitch black and the snow was settling so thickly that I could no longer see if I was even driving in a lane or not. After pulling on to the hard shoulder three times to clean the ice of the wipers. I had an unsettling feeling in my stomach and my best friend began to panic. There was a point where the traffic was so constant as we sat on the shoulder that to even pull back onto the interstate could have caused other drivers to swerve of crash. We took some deep breaths together and talked about the situation.
We realized that we were both fearful, and all the fears were based in the future. What if we have to spend the night here? what if we get stranded and my cellphone goes dead? What if someone crashes into us and we suffer? What if we die?.........
I decided that if I just stayed in the present moment, then nothing could harm me, and as I finally found a break in the traffic and pulled off on my way again, that's excaly what I did, nothing else mattered but the tire tracks in front of me, nothing else mattered but the next foot I travelled, my calm slow breaths and my mind not looking back nor forward, in the very here and now as each second ticked by.
What happened? I became calmer, I felt the fear seeping out of my body and I actually started to enjoy the experience, It felt soothing and calming, even euphoric and metitative, crawling along at 20 miles an hour on a three lane interstate.
Once again, there is nothing that the past or future can give us that the present moment can't.
Next time you feel yourself starting to panic or are feeling fearful, try simply focusing on the present moment and reap the benefits.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
The ISM
From Kate Wilde:
Our first Son-Rise Program Intensive child for 2011 is such a cutie pie. He is just three years old, he has tufts of brown hair that stick up right at the top of his head making him even more adorable, and lovely sweet and gentle eyes.
He has not only a sweet soul but a brave soul, he has spent most of his three years in the company of his Mom, and Dad thus it is a challenge for him to spend time with brand new people this week. It has been just one day and he is already doing so well opening himself up to new people. Yesterday I was the second new person he had met in the playroom. When I entered the room he walked backwards a few steps, his eyes watered and his breath increased as he asked me to close the door. Then he started to count and draw numbers, number one, two and "Fwee" for "Three". After counting and drawing numbers for a while, he relaxed and was able to look and connect with me.
Counting and drawing numbers is one of his isms - our children on the Autism Spectrum know just how to take care of themselves when they are faced with something they find challenging. Their isms are so useful and important for their development. Something to embrace and join instead of stop.A doorway in for us to connect with them, and for them to be able to connect with us.
Today see your child's repetitious behaviors as a helpful friend and join in with your child's activity without trying to get them to do something different.
Our first Son-Rise Program Intensive child for 2011 is such a cutie pie. He is just three years old, he has tufts of brown hair that stick up right at the top of his head making him even more adorable, and lovely sweet and gentle eyes.
He has not only a sweet soul but a brave soul, he has spent most of his three years in the company of his Mom, and Dad thus it is a challenge for him to spend time with brand new people this week. It has been just one day and he is already doing so well opening himself up to new people. Yesterday I was the second new person he had met in the playroom. When I entered the room he walked backwards a few steps, his eyes watered and his breath increased as he asked me to close the door. Then he started to count and draw numbers, number one, two and "Fwee" for "Three". After counting and drawing numbers for a while, he relaxed and was able to look and connect with me.
Counting and drawing numbers is one of his isms - our children on the Autism Spectrum know just how to take care of themselves when they are faced with something they find challenging. Their isms are so useful and important for their development. Something to embrace and join instead of stop.A doorway in for us to connect with them, and for them to be able to connect with us.
Today see your child's repetitious behaviors as a helpful friend and join in with your child's activity without trying to get them to do something different.
Monday, January 3, 2011
2011
From : Kate Wilde:
It is a new year 2011. Here the air is fresh and crisp with the coldness of the winter months. To my friends in Australia many of you will feel the warmth of the summer sun upon your faces. Whatever the weather the new year is upon us, a time to reflect upon the creations we made in 2010 and how and what we want to create 2011.
Below are four simple actions you can take that will propel your Son-Rise Program with your Autistic child to the next level and deepen the amount of love and sweetness you experience in your 2011.
1. Commit to really loving yourself no matter what. Not just when you do something you hold in high esteem - but ALL the time.
2. Spend just 30 minutes once a week reading one of the following books, "Happiness Is A Choice" by Barry Neil Kaufman. "To Love Is To Be happy With.", by Barry Neil Kaufman, "PowerDialogues" by Barry Neil Kaufman.
3. Wake each morning and read the following quote:
"This is the true joy in life, the being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one; the being thoroughly worn out before you die; the being a force of nature instead of a feverish little clod of ailments and grievances complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy."
4. Call (413) 229 - 2100 and book a consultation package with one of our Son-Rise Program teachers.
Know that we are here for you this year - loving and supporting you and your beautiful children.
with much love to you
Kate
.
It is a new year 2011. Here the air is fresh and crisp with the coldness of the winter months. To my friends in Australia many of you will feel the warmth of the summer sun upon your faces. Whatever the weather the new year is upon us, a time to reflect upon the creations we made in 2010 and how and what we want to create 2011.
Below are four simple actions you can take that will propel your Son-Rise Program with your Autistic child to the next level and deepen the amount of love and sweetness you experience in your 2011.
1. Commit to really loving yourself no matter what. Not just when you do something you hold in high esteem - but ALL the time.
2. Spend just 30 minutes once a week reading one of the following books, "Happiness Is A Choice" by Barry Neil Kaufman. "To Love Is To Be happy With.", by Barry Neil Kaufman, "PowerDialogues" by Barry Neil Kaufman.
3. Wake each morning and read the following quote:
"This is the true joy in life, the being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one; the being thoroughly worn out before you die; the being a force of nature instead of a feverish little clod of ailments and grievances complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy."
4. Call (413) 229 - 2100 and book a consultation package with one of our Son-Rise Program teachers.
Know that we are here for you this year - loving and supporting you and your beautiful children.
with much love to you
Kate
.
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