Life Coaching – The importance it holds for Autism and other Special Needs today by Jaclyn Hunt

The rates of children being diagnosed with an Autism spectrum disorder and other special needs (whether they are medical, mental, or psychological) are on the rise.  This fact has been well documented by the media, the field of medicine, and by the realization that almost everyone we come in contact with has or knows someone with some sort of label or disability.  Likewise, the services for these children are growing and developing into high quality care due to the passion and diligence of parents who demand it from society, the government, and the world.

With these high quality programs on the rise, why then is a Life Coach an important addition to the Autism and Special Needs network?  A good place to start is with the child.  What happens to a special needs child once he becomes an adult?  The high quality care and environment he has had access to his entire life quickly vanishes and he is thrust into a society that is not necessarily tailored to every individual’s personal needs.  It is apparent that services for special needs adults are lacking greatly in today’s society.  This is where a Life Coach, such as myself, can be recruited to assist in the very specialized needs of this population.

In my experience, I have found that the desire to obtain the qualities of organization, motivation, and focus are some of the most common reasons people seek out the services of a Life Coach.  Interestingly enough, these qualities are what many in the special needs population require support in developing, by a person who knows how to effectively communicate and integrate with the unique learning methods of a special needs individual.

For instance, some real life situations where a special needs adult may need support is of course the transition to college, followed by choosing a career path, starting a family and becoming a parent, and general planning for the future.  These are very broad categories that most adults navigate through successfully with hard work and a strong support system. However, a person with special needs may greatly benefit from an advisor who can help them break down these monumental life events into small, easy to accomplish goals.  In addition, another related aspect of adults with special needs entering the real world is the task of establishing and maintaining proper social relationships in these various stages and areas of our lives.  A Life Coach can be an excellent guide in a potentially confusing and rule laden environment.

It is equally important to mention that people who reach out to me are not only those on the Autism spectrum or have issues with attention, organization, or social understanding.  I have worked with the parents of children with Autism and other special needs, as well as their siblings, and in some cases close friends.  It is very easy for a parent who is dedicated to her child’s life to lose sight of her own identity.  Having a Life Coach who understands the frustrations and difficulties, as well as the joys, of having a special needs child is essential in assisting the parent in whatever goals she wishes to set and strive towards as an individual.

Furthermore, I have worked with individuals and couples who are in romantic relationships where one or both partners are on the Autism spectrum.  These types of romantic relationships can become very complicated and have a different set of circumstances as compared to a typical couple’s relationship.  A Life Coach can assist in helping this type of couple create goals and solve problems as well as bridge a gap in potential communication difficulties due to the different way each person in the relationship thinks, learns, and feels.

Currently, there are very few Life Coaches in the United States who are specialized in Autism and Special Needs.  One of my goals is to change that by making my services and experience available to all those who want assistance. I also hope to encourage other Life Coaches and professionals in related fields to see the importance and very great need for these services in the world today.  Autism and Special Needs do not simply disappear when a young adult graduates high school.  It is my belief that we should continue to fight hard for these people by offering our support now, and for the rest of their lives.

Jaclyn Hunt

http://www.asnlifecoach.com

asnlifecoach@gmail.com

@asnlifecoach on Twitter, AutismAndSpecialNeedsLifeCoach on Facebook

Inclusion Films Workshop – Helping Special Students Realize Their Creativity

By Joseph C. Geronimo 

Seven years ago, Joey Travolta decided to share all he knew about filmmaking with special needs children and give back to the community at the same time. His point of focus: guys and gals with autism and developmental disabilities. Its name is: the Inclusion Films Workshop.

With the curriculum focused on all things to do with film concept, script writing and development, story boarding, filming and production, post-production and final product, Joey Travolta’s leadership and industry professional team of teachers, have taught the fundamentals in every level of how to make movies happen.

Having been a former student myself, the experience left me knowing more about what I already know of filmmaking, being that I’ve been a fan of great films from all genres, since even before I came to the workshop. The knowledge and experience passed on to me by all the teachers, inspired me to make all the short films I had done, in the best way I did them. Currently, I am working with Inclusion Films head of public relations, Ivey Van Allen.

After learning all there is to learn from Inclusion Films, bigger and better is expected from the graduates.  Each project is put forth for all students to achieve, but to also take what has been passed on out into real world application. 

Hollywood has taken notice of Inclusion Films talent by hiring the students to work as production assistants at the ‘big’ commercial and television studios. The following organizations and studios shared their enthusiasm for their Inclusion Films hires:

“I have been so impressed with the level of expertise of the graduates you sent me for our television pilots, one of them is staffed on a show now in series production.” – Aaron Kaplan, creator of ABC-TV’s series, “The Neighbors”

“We just wrapped our first commercial shoot where we employed Inclusion Films’ graduates and it will definitely NOT be our last!   I’m happy to recommend Inclusion Films for employment to anyone in the entertainment industry and beyond.  The collaboration was great for everyone involved.”  - Uber Content, producer of national “Wendy’s” commercial campaign

“We are proud to have been worked with Inclusion Films over the years and the quality of the work your graduates provide is top notch.” –    Chicago School of Professional Psychology

“Not only is Inclusion Films producing our PSA campaign, your team is helping with our marketing and public relations efforts for our upcoming red carpet event.” – 211 LA County

Student Success Stories

I recently interviewed a few of the students who have been employed by a few of those mentioned above; some of whom are currently on the job.

Uber Content Wendy’s commercial

Q: What’s it like to work there?

A: First off, on a set, it’s amazing. It’s always amazing, especially on the bigger-budgeted commercials. The crew is always at the top of their game, the environment is welcoming and familial, and the food is great, it’d be a shame not to mention that last point. Über Content was great to work with, I’d almost go so far to say it was my favorite work experience.

Q: How are you using the skills you learned at Inclusion films in your job?

A: There was one guy there, who really took it upon himself to take me under his wing, beyond even the already extremely welcoming attitude of the rest of the crew. He took us around set and quizzed us on things, showed us tricks to working as G&E, like ratchet straps. Of course, we knew the answers to his quizzes because of Inclusion, but we did learn some neat things.

Q: What time did you report in?

A: As for reporting in, we were the first ones there, I believe it was 6:30 for an 8am call. Then we worked until 8. It was a pretty short shoot day.

Q: What advice would you give to students who are currently looking for work?

A: One of the most important pieces of advice that I just have to reinforce myself, keep your personal life off the set. Producers don’t need to know if your dog is sick, what your mother-in-law thinks of you, or if a girl broke your heart. You should act in a consistent manner on set no matter what happens off of it. If you’ve worked with another P.A. before, and he stole your lunch money as a kid or something, producers do NOT want to know. And if you tell them, they’ll think less of you, not the other guy. And don’t go up to the guy and argue with him about some crack he made about your mother the day before in a bar or something. If you DESPERATELY need to settle it, pull him aside after work, not even on break, and do it in a civil, professional manner. You’re there to work, not be friends, at the end of the day. 

Chicago School of Psychology shoots

Q: What’s it like to work there? 

A: Arriving at about 6:00 a.m. for a 7:00 a.m. call time, I made the adjustment rather quickly, along with my colleague Quinn Wright. It was a wonderful experience all around, and we learned a lot about how on the job camera work is done.

Q: How were you using the skills you had learned from Inclusion Films in your job?

A: I was assistant cameraman.

Q: What advice would you give students who are currently looking for work? 

A: Know what it is you want to get out of Inclusion Films before you even start the class. Once there, practice at it along with other skills the give you, and always follow your dreams.

Variety Magazine

Q: What’s it like to work there?

A: Interesting, hard working, accommodating. I had a wonderful team of people to work hard with, and they were very impressed on seeing how enthusiastic I was from the beginning.

Q: How are you using the skills you learned at Inclusion Films in your job?

A: I hooked up with Variety’s movie promotion department, the help promote all types of movies.

Q: What time do you report in every day?

A: I work from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Q: What advice would you give students who are currently looking for work?

A: Know what you want to do and do it the best that you can.

 

Continued success INCLUSION FILMS CREW!

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR:  JOEY TRAVOLTA

CREATIVE DIRECTOR:  RAYMOND MARTINO 

EDITOR POST PRODUCTION: SETH SHULMAN

And all the students: past, present and future.

 

 

 

HeartSpace Physical Therapy for Children by Shelley Mannell

15 years ago I created HeartSpace Physical Therapy for Children in order to provide private, home-based Physical Therapy services for children and families in southern Ontario.  The goal was to create a relaxed atmosphere, where children and families could talk and play, and take the time to build a positive, trusting relationship with me in their natural environment. I have always believed that this relationship was a crucial piece for families in their journey towards their goals.

I serve children with a variety of diagnoses; Torticollis, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, low muscle tone, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Developmental Delay or Developmental Coordination Disorder.  Many families seek therapy because their children are experiencing generalized difficulty with motor skills that makes it harder for them to keep up with their peers.

When I first began my practice, I struggled to understand the multiple systems that were involved in my clients.  I sought continuing education that allowed me to understand and treat the combined soft tissue, visual, vestibular, emotional and motor control issues that challenged them.

I always begin by asking myself why a child moves their body in a particular way and what is preventing them from progressing.  The answer is found in an in-depth understanding of postural control – the process by which we keep our body upright and stable. I marvel at how postural control underlies every single one of our motor skills whether they be gross motor, fine motor, oral motor, respiration or phonation; difficulties with postural control can affect them all.  Combining my clinical experience with new research provides an exciting understanding of the complexity of postural control and how to treat it.

I have also come to realize that many of my clients are stuck in a stress reaction.  Children often startle or cry easily or shut down when they are challenged.  First and foremost I understand that I need to help them be calm and alert; without this there can be no comfort and no learning.

I now enjoy speaking with pediatric therapists all over the world. There are so many talented people doing their best for the children in their care and I am excited to be able to connect with many of them on social media.  I also enjoy meeting therapists as I teach continuing education courses across North America.

25 years ago I began as a pediatric therapist. But many of the children I have known are now adults and still call me if they require Physical Therapy services; it can be difficult to find a therapist who understands the issues faced by adults with developmental disabilities.  I continue to learn and expand my knowledge base and combine this with my clinical skills in a problem-solving approach. This process allows me to facilitate optimum function for each of my clients.

Shelley Mannell PT

http://www.heartspacept.com

 shelley@heartspacept.com

@heartspacept on Twitter, HeartSpacePT on Facebook

ActUpNYC – By Tiffany James, Founder and Teaching Artist of ActUpNYC

 

Act Up NYC is a specialized program for high-functioning special needs children. It is designed with a deep art therapy root providing special needs children an artistic outlet for their emotions and impulses.

 

Act Up NYC is for children who are already acting up in non-beneficial ways, providing them with a supplemental and alternative therapy so these children can explore conflict resolution and have an opportunity to tell their unique stories in a safe and fun space. The children explore basic acting games and warm ups, visual creative outlets, scene work, story acting, and monologue work. The goal is that under the guise of a character and a story the children will not only find a creative release for their emotions but also feel safe enough to open up about and act out conflicts that may provide insight for parents and counselors into the child’s daily struggles.

 

Founder of Act Up NYC, Tiffany James created the company after working with a special needs child in a summer camp environment. She found that giving this child mastery over his own creative fate gave him the confidence to control himself and even reach out to other children which he hadn’t previously done. He is now regarded as a dear friend and client, as well as the inspiration for her project.

 

Tiffany James is a graduate of Wagner College who has performed and taught with many venues through out New York City including Galli’s Fairytale Theater, Kick&Play, Astoria Performing Arts Center, The Ascension School and Williamsburg Movement and Arts Center. Tiffany has also volunteered creative time leading therapeutic dramatic workshops to Ronald McDonald House and Sarah Burke House.

 

Once a week Tiffany holds a workshop for her children to work in a team environment in which they will explore conflict resolution group scene work and the team creation of an original story.

 

For further information, please contact…

Tiffany James

actupnyc@gmail.com

 

 

How My Parents Raised A Diabetic Child by Taylor Jones

November is Diabetes Awareness Month.  We Connect Now celebrates it by hosting the blog “How My Parents Raised A Diabetic Child” by Taylor Jones 

The 3 things every parent should know -

Dear Parents,

There’s one story I always love to tell people. No, it wasn’t the story of far away kingdoms or of knights in shining armor and princesses in distress. It was something more meaningful, something more real and personal. It was the story of how my life was changed forever. You see, I was only five years old when I was diagnosed with Type I Diabetes (if you want more information about neuropathy or my battle with diabetes, check out my blog at Taylor Jones: Survivor)

I was the only one in the family who was diagnosed with that disease, so my parents were shocked when they found out about it. It was like their daughter was being pulled out of life even before she started living it. The doctors told them that I wouldn’t be able to live long, more so be able to live a normal life. I wouldn’t be able to play with other kids and do the activities people do. Guess they were wrong because here I am now, already 39 years old and still having the best time of my life.

My family, especially my parents, definitely played an integral role in my development in living life as a “normal” kid. Everything they did or said throughout my journey helped mold me into someone who even when physically weak is stronger than most. My Mom and Dad knew they couldn’t do anything to prevent this disease, but believed that there is still hope. Even though their daughter had diabetes, they knew there was still a way for me to live and enjoy life to the fullest.

Of course, there had been adjustments in our family, but my parents tried their best to resume all our normal everyday activities, which still included weekend trips and going out to eat. Instead of altering my life because of diabetes, they taught me how to accept it even as a young child and make it a part of my routine and everyday life. That for me is the best thing every parent could do in raising a kid with diabetes.

Here are the 3 things that I think parents of diabetic children should make sure to do:

1. Never hover. This may sound strange, but if you want your child to live a normal life, not limited by something beyond their control, then do your best to treat her/him like any other child. I remember at first, my parents didn’t know how to treat me. Although, I needed to constantly be watched since I would literally eat anything in front of me, they also knew that they couldn’t follow me around or be with me 24/7, so instead they taught me how to remember to take care of myself. If I fell, they were there to pick me up, but not right away. They would let me learn how to react with the pain and get back up on my own. I was never abandoned or felt unloved.

2. Teach. For instance they would make it easy for me to not eat sweets by telling me that if it starts with a “C” then steer clear from it. Cakes, Cookies, Candy and later they added Carbs. Early, on I learned that portion control was the number 1 thing I need to do. As a child, it’s easier to be taught to only eat/take what you need then to not take it all. Sometimes they would need to threaten me with scary stories, but most of the time, they just needed to talk to me seriously. My parents didn’t limit the things that I could do, but taught me how to become more responsible in my actions whether I was at home, at school or some place else. They allowed me to participate in dealing with the disease. They taught me how to do the insulin shots myself and overcome my fear of needles. I also learned how to monitor the highs and lows of my sugar levels and control the food that I take. By sharing with me the responsibility of dealing with diabetes, I was able to slowly accept my situation as I was growing up– that life after all is what you make of it.

3. Cuddle the pain away. My parents loved me and definitely spoiled me more than my siblings (I’m 1 of 3). Since I’m the baby, I was already more spoiled than the rest. There were definitely days of pain usually beyond my control. Sometimes, all you need is for your parent to hold you, and remind you that you are strong and can make it through anything in life. I call this “cuddle the pain away.” It’s not about being overbearing, but responding in how your child needs you. Some children need words, some children need hugs, some children need just your presence, and yes, some children just need to be alone.

Having a kid who has diabetes is frightening and it’s normal for parents to protect your child as much as possible and have him/her enjoy life. The fact of the matter is, that diabetes is never going anywhere. Raising a child with diabetes is not an easy thing to do, but it can be done. If you want to see your child grow up and live a successful and happy life, let them do their part in accepting their condition. Just like what my parents did. Your kid will thank you for it.

Taylor Jones is a Type 2 Diabetes survivor, mother, inspiration and advocate. Email her at taylorjonessurvivor@gmail.com or check out her blog.   

Should You Get a Van Wheelchair Lift? by The Mobility Resource

A van wheelchair lift can be a great way to increase your mobility and freedom. It’s one of the most common, useful pieces of accessibility equipment. You could consider it the quintessential handicap van feature. But lifts are more expensive than ramps. Some even require structural modifications to your vehicle. So how do you know when it’s time to invest in this accessibility equipment?

Upgrading to a Van Wheelchair Lift 

Maybe you’ve been doing alright getting in and out of your van on your own. Maybe you’ve had assistance from a swiveling vehicle seat. There may have been a little pain or more exertion than you care for. If your condition or impairment is getting worse, if access is getting harder or if you’re becoming more reliant on your scooter or wheelchair, it’s possibly time to install a van wheelchair lift.

Or, perhaps you’ve been making do with a wheelchair ramp for entering and exiting your vehicle. If your chair is manual, it can become increasingly difficult to get up a ramp and to control it on the way down. If a caregiver pushes you up and down the ramp, its practicality depends on his or her continued ability to do so. For aging couples, for example, a ramp can become too much of a strain for the ambulatory person.

When to Get A Van Wheelchair Lift

When deciding whether it’s time for a van wheelchair lift, consider how often you need to take your wheelchair or scooter with you. If you’re becoming increasingly dependent on your mobility aid, your life will be much easier with a lift on your vehicle.

Lifts let you skip the struggle of getting in an out of the van or up and down a ramp. They make it convenient and effortless to take your wheelchair with you on every trip, whether it’s around the corner to the store or cross-country. Wheelchair or scooter lifts facilitate maximum mobility everywhere you go when your ability to get around is dependent on an assistive device.

Take Advantage of Free Resources for Bipolar Disorder by Healthline

College can be difficult enough without the strain of a mental illness, medication and appointments to keep track of, and having to navigate the world of medical resources alone – perhaps for the first time ever. That is why it is essential to know how to find assistance with managing bipolar disorder at whatever college you choose to attend.

Although large universities often offer comprehensive student health centers (and even limited free counseling sessions with a therapist), many small schools may have fewer services to promote. Whether you attend the nation’s largest state school or the country’s smallest private institution, you can patch together a network of support resources for bipolar disorder. Just keep in mind that in addition to the myriad free resources for managing bipolar disorder, most students with bipolar disorder will still require visits with a mental health professional and a regular prescription medication.

Prepare Yourself for Managing Bipolar Disorder at School

1.    Connect with the student health center. Even if you will remain on private or government insurance and visit an off-campus provider, it   is advisable to familiarize a school physician with your condition and treatment plan. Ask about local support groups, free resources, and emergency contacts.

2.    Search for a local support group through the list of support groups and therapy groups maintained by the MADI Resource Center
http://www2.massgeneral.org/madiresourcecenter/moodandanxiety_finding-support_supportgroups.asp
. Even if sessions are not available through your university, many local support chapters are offered on a regular basis and are open to the wider community. If one is available near your school, get connected early and ask them for advice about other local resources.

3.    Take advantage of the Internet. The web is perhaps the best way to get free assistance with coping with bipolar disorder during college. Free information hubs, like Healthline’s Bipolar Disorder Resource Center, offer tips on managing relationships, explaining your condition to friends, and even handling your condition at work and school. Furthermore, online resources like this can keep you updated on the latest (free!) therapies for bipolar disorder management, such as creativity therapy and yoga.

4.    Adopt healthy lifestyle habits that are non-negotiable. Part of managing bipolar disorder well involves developing and maintaining healthy habits. This means following a regular sleep schedule with plenty of rest, exercising regularly, and getting involved with a “good” crowd. Developing friendships with people who will help keep you healthy and accountable during episodes of mania and depression can be a critical safeguard for your health and wellbeing (and criminal record!).

5.    Find a dirt-cheap technique for self-therapy. Identifying a free way to manage your emotions, ups and downs, and the stress from school and your illness can literally be a lifesaver. Experiment with creative ways to harness your frustrations and express yourself. Consider blogging, painting, bodybuilding, dancing, cooking, hiking, kickboxing, and other hobbies that allow you to let off steam without spending money or engaging in risky behaviors.

6.    Join an online bipolar disorder discussion forum. Many bipolar help sites offer free online chat rooms where you can discuss your emotions, questions, and experiences with other bipolar students or adults who have struggled with the same challenges that you will experience. Take advantage of their advice and don’t be afraid to ask questions. To make forums even more valuable, commit yourself to a regular time session, with daily or weekly time periods of participation.

Regardless of the free methods you choose to supplement your care plan at college, be sure that your choices work for you and your lifestyle. If you don’t enjoy taking the time to scrapbook or talk with others about your experiences, you won’t really get the advantages out of these free therapy options. Experiment until you find a combination that supplements your treatment plan and fits your tastes and preferences, and don’t be afraid to try new activities on for size. Being a college student with bipolar disorder can actually be affordable, fun, and exciting – especially if you make day hikes and chat rooms a part of the experience!

For more information on affordable ways to manage bipolar disorder during college and adulthood, visit Healthline.com’s Bipolar Disorder Resource Center.