My child
I feel blessed to be the parent of our unique, irreplaceable and wonderfully made child.
Let's be honest, of course when I found out that my child was diagnosed with autism I was concerned. Concerned, for what "autism" would mean. Concerned if my family and I were prepared for a child with special needs, and potentially severe special needs. One of the main reassurances I had during this time of shock and grief was knowing that we were not alone. Not only do we have a loving and supportive community, but there is help and numerous resources available.
(We love our therapist!)
One resource we took advantage of quickly was ABA therapy which was recommended by our pediatrician. ABA stands for Applied Behavioral Analysis and has continued to prove successful for many people with autism. It is a harmless therapy and study shows that often times the younger a child with autism begins treatments the higher functioning s/he becomes.
We found it a comfortable experience for Mautis to start therapy at home where he was familiar with his surroundings and where we as a family could listen and watch from afar. This proved to be helpful as the rest of us were able to watch Mautis' positive and energetic therapist model appropriate responses and interactions with Mautis.
One aspect of ABA is distinguishing the right environment and behavior Mautis responds well to. A structured and organized setting/schedule/routine are a vital aspect to the environment in which people with autism do better in, and seem to remain more emotionally consistent.
In regards to a specific form of positive behavioral reinforcement that Mautis responds well to are various stimuli involved activities and even basic problem solving activities he enjoys like completing puzzles.
Additionally, Mautis is very intrigued by music and musical instruments, just as a lot of people with autism are, so he responds positively to a reward based system during therapy where if he completes a task correctly there is an instant musical reward he experiences. So for Mautis, the chance to play on a drum set or guitar are enticing tools to utilize as behavioral rewards.
One resource we took advantage of quickly was ABA therapy which was recommended by our pediatrician. ABA stands for Applied Behavioral Analysis and has continued to prove successful for many people with autism. It is a harmless therapy and study shows that often times the younger a child with autism begins treatments the higher functioning s/he becomes.
We found it a comfortable experience for Mautis to start therapy at home where he was familiar with his surroundings and where we as a family could listen and watch from afar. This proved to be helpful as the rest of us were able to watch Mautis' positive and energetic therapist model appropriate responses and interactions with Mautis.
One aspect of ABA is distinguishing the right environment and behavior Mautis responds well to. A structured and organized setting/schedule/routine are a vital aspect to the environment in which people with autism do better in, and seem to remain more emotionally consistent.
In regards to a specific form of positive behavioral reinforcement that Mautis responds well to are various stimuli involved activities and even basic problem solving activities he enjoys like completing puzzles.
Additionally, Mautis is very intrigued by music and musical instruments, just as a lot of people with autism are, so he responds positively to a reward based system during therapy where if he completes a task correctly there is an instant musical reward he experiences. So for Mautis, the chance to play on a drum set or guitar are enticing tools to utilize as behavioral rewards.
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