Giving Thanks to Our Autism Caregivers
In the realm of caregiving, where selflessness often takes precedence, it is crucial for caregivers, especially those dedicated to autistic individuals, to extend gratitude towards themselves. The journey of caring for an individual with autism can be emotionally, physically, and mentally demanding, making self-care and reflection essential elements of a caregiver’s well-being. Caregivers often pour […]
Preparing your Autistic Loved One for the Autumn Season
Autumn is a beautiful season characterized by colorful leaves, crisp air, and sensory experiences. For autistic individuals, the changes that come with autumn can be both exciting and challenging. Preparing them for the seasonal transition can make the experience enjoyable and stress-free. Understanding Sensory Sensitivities Autistic children might experience heightened sensory sensitivities, which changes in […]
First Day School Jitters: Preparing Your Autistic Loved One
The first day of school can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience for any child. For children with autism, however, these jitters can be magnified due to their difficulty in adapting to new routines and environments. The good news is with thoughtful preparation and practice, you can help ease their transition and build their […]
Hurricane Preparation Tips For Our Caregivers
Hurricane season can be a stressful time for everyone, but it can be incredibly challenging for caregivers with autistic loved ones. Autistic individuals may have difficulty understanding the concept of a hurricane and may be more sensitive to changes in routine and environment. Here are a few tips for caregivers to help their autistic loved […]
Tips and Ideas for Caregivers with Autistic Loved Ones for a Smooth Summer Trip
Summer is a time for relaxation, fun, and travel. But for caregivers of autistic loved ones, it can also be a time of stress and anxiety. Traveling with an autistic individual can be challenging, but it is possible to make the experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible with some planning and preparation. Here are […]
Summer Activities for Your Autistic Loved One
Summer can be an excellent time to engage in activities with your autistic child, teen, or loved one. While every individual is unique, and their interests and abilities may vary, here are activities you can consider to make the most of the summer season: 1. Outdoor Adventures ● Nature Walks: Enjoy the beauty of nature […]
The Importance of Parents/Caregivers of Autistic Loved Ones Practicing Self-Care
Caring for a child or loved one with autism can be both rewarding and challenging. Parents and caregivers often devote a significant amount of time and energy to meeting the needs of their autistic loved ones, sometimes at the expense of their own well-being. However, it is crucial for these individuals to prioritize self-care for […]
Empowering Autistic Children for Financial Independence
Navigating the complexities of financial independence can be particularly challenging for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It’s essential for parents and caregivers to equip their autistic child with the necessary tools and knowledge to handle daily money transactions and, eventually, larger financial responsibilities. This guide aims to offer strategies and insights for teaching autistic […]
The Importance of Mental Health in Families with Autistic Children and Loved Ones
Mental health is a crucial aspect of well-being for individuals and families worldwide. When a family includes an autistic child, addressing mental health needs becomes indispensable— not only for the child but also for their siblings and parents. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by a variety of challenges, including difficulties with social interaction, communication, […]
Ways to Enjoy the Holidays
There is no place like home… especially for the holidays. Here are some enjoyable ways to ensure that your autistic loved one has a fun and memorable break this holiday season. Home for the holidays: Ways to make sure your autistic child enjoys their break | Autism Speaks. (n.d.). Autism Speaks. https://www.autismspeaks.org/blog/home-holidays-ways-make-sure-your-autistic-child-enjoys-their-break Holidays can be […]
Parent and Caregiver Self-Care During the Holidays
The holidays are both demanding and stressful for parents and caregivers. It is especially important to practice self-care. Author Eleanor Brown said it most beautifully; “Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.” […]
Autism and Halloween
Halloween is a tradition that most families have participated in for hundreds of years. Unfortunately, it can be hard on children with autism because of the bright lights and loud noises, having to say trick or treat at each home, navigating the large groups of trick or treaters and social interactions, a change in […]
How a Child Qualifies for Social Security Disability Benefits
On March 23, 2023, the CDC (Center for Disease Control) reported that 1 in 36 children is affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD or autism). Having an autistic child can require parents/caregivers to make immense lifestyle changes to determine whether their child receives the care they need to thrive. Frequently one parent may become the […]
Autism is Expensive
A study conducted in 2020 found that “the average per capita cost of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) is $3,566,881” (The lifetime social cost of autism: 1990-2029). Investopedia performed a research study of their own and found that raising a child without ASD in the United States in 2022 from the time they are born to […]
Respite care
Autism Speaks defines respite care as, “short-term care for a child or adult that allows the primary caregiver relief.” Respite care can be rewarding, needed, and highly beneficial to those caring for loved ones with autism. The key is using Respite Care in ways that benefit your family, your time, and your mental health. For […]
The Importance of Parents Finding Relaxation
Parents take on several tasks every single day: scheduling, routines, doctor’s appointments, meals, homework, school, practices, and so much more. For many families around the globe, an autism diagnosis makes that list even longer. Rather than spending time planning family vacations for the summer, most parents of children with autism are preparing themselves and their […]
The Role of Siblings to Autistic People
For families beginning the autism journey with a new autism spectrum disorder diagnosis, parents may ask, “What does this mean for my family?” Or, “What does this mean for my other children?” The critical thing to remember is that you are not alone. Many families wonder how their other children, older or younger, will process […]
The Role of Parents and Caregivers to an Autistic Child
For every child, the role of a parent/caregiver goes further than the word “caregiver.” It means advocator, supporter, friend, comforter, protector, and more. For a child that needs assistance communicating their wants and needs, the role of a parent/caregiver becomes essential to their mental and physical growth. So how can a parent adequately be a […]
Transition for a Student with Autism Spectrum Disorder – Life after High School
Every day we continue in life is another day to learn something new, create a new goal, or build relationships. As children and adults grow in their understanding of the world around them, they are learning. For those with autism, learning life skills is crucial for development and transition into life after school. A high […]
The Importance of Inclusion
The Center for Disease Control describes disability inclusion as “understanding the relationship between the way people function and how they participate in society and making sure everybody has the same opportunities to participate in every aspect of life to their best abilities and desires.” Most children, from a young age, are taught to include everyone […]
From Awareness to Acceptance
For many, April brings a time to reach out to their loved ones, wear blue, and educate and empower those around them. April 2nd is World Autism Awareness Day. The goal is to teach others about autism spectrum disorder (ASD or autism). Answer questions like how the world can bring awareness and acceptance to help […]
Why is the Term “Asperger Syndrome” No Longer Used?
Asperger Syndrome began the beginning stages of study in 1944 by Hans Asperger. Asperger was a child psychologist who recognized a few boys he studied with average intelligence and language development that still portrayed behaviors aligned with Autism. These behaviors include a lack of social interactions, understanding nonverbal communication, obsession with a specific subject, and […]
Hope For Three Creates First Autism Awareness License Plate in Texas
Sugar Land, TX (June 25, 2021) – Following the end of this year’s 87th Texas legislative session, Hope For Three Autism Advocates received approval for Texas’ first autism-related specialty license plate. The new plates are available for purchase from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles in September for $30 annually, or with five-letter customization for […]
Let’s Hear it for Dad!
Let’s Honor “Ausome” Dads!! We’re looking to spotlight “ausome” dads in our community. Please submit a photo (2-3 max) of a dad/male caregiver, his kids with names, ages of kiddos, and a quote from dad, or a short story. We’ll highlight on our Facebook page on Father’s Day weekend! Please submit photos by NOON, June […]