Achieva Autism Connection of PA – Autism Connection of Pennsylvania

Safety and Social Media Webinar

Presented by Shelbi-Lynn/Blackburn Center

Using the internet and social media can be a great way to connect with friends and family, provide a platform for learning and explore our world from anywhere. How do you do it safely and teach those you care for to do so as well? Together we will create a space to answer your questions on how people can safely navigate our ever-expanding virtual world safely and begin the discussion about how to respond if that space becomes unsafe.

Register Here

Those who attend will

Build awareness of overall internet safety and how use the internet safely and responsibly
Learn how promote internet safety using a team model with their family
Identify ways of responding to cyberbullying, digital abuse, and other unsafe situations that may arise on social media or the internet

Shelbi-lynn Moonley is the Outreach Specialist with Blackburn Center in Greensburg, Westmoreland County. Shelbi received her undergraduate degree in Psychology with a minor in Women and Gender Studies from Clarion University of Pennsylvania. She has provided support to victims of crime and their families while navigating the criminal justice systems and the medical systems for the past five years at Blackburn Center. Shelbi further specializes in working with underserved populations including victims with disabilities, older adults, and those impacted by Human Trafficking. She has an active voice in pursuing systemic change through various systems such as the Westmoreland County Elder Abuse Task Force, Disability Justice and Community Collaboration Initiative, and is the lead for the Westmoreland Human Trafficking Task Force. As part of her role, she frequently provides counseling to victims and trainings to professionals and community members to recognize violence and crime while educating the participates on how to utilize the trauma-informed approach to better support survivors. She strongly believes in her agency’s mission that upholds the rights for all people to live free from domestic and sexual violence and other forms of violence by eliminating the root causes of such violence and providing for the well-being and safety of survivors.

Back to School (Two) Power Hour

Students with disabilities are not excluded from discipline at school, but there is a process that must be followed. From 6:30 to 7:30 Micheal Connolly will discuss school suspension and expulsions.

What is a restraint? Is a “calm down” space seclusion? If you have questions about restraints and seclusion at school, please join from 7:30pm to 8:30pm as Keith Focht shares information and regulations.

Michael J. Connolly is a Supervising Partner at McAndrews, Mehalick, Connolly, Hulse and Ryan P.C. in Berwyn, PA. Michael provides legal representation to students and families in all major areas of education advocacy, with a focus on special education and enforcing the education rights of the most vulnerable students.

Keith Focht is the Pennsylvania Department of Education Special Advisor and Pennsylvania Bureau of Special Education RISC Advisor.

Register Here

children using an iPad for assistive technology in a classroom

Guest Blog Post: Autism and Assistive Technology

When my son was 4 years old and had no verbal words, I knew we needed to find a communication method that worked for him. Getting over the barriers to access AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) didn’t come fast or easy, but because we were unrelenting in the belief that he had the right to communicate, we are here.

So where are we? Well, he – and we – are on the second day of the new adventure of middle school. Yes, middle school. A lot has certainly changed since the acronym AT (assistive technology) became part of our vocabulary. My son has matured and grown almost as fast as the technology has.

Helpful Assistive Technology Resources

Proloquo2go has been my son’s go-to communication app for years It’s fully customizable. He has a dedicated iPad for his communication app and his communication app only. There are several app options, but this one fit his needs and has grown with him.
Snap Type Pro 2 App – to assist with independent work.
Clicker App – to promote independent writing.
Anti-Glare screen protector to help improve focus.

Text leveling apps modify the text to be simpler to fit a student’s reading/comprehension skills while allowing them to access the same content as other students:

Intermediate Units and Training and Consultation Teams

The information above is courtesy of a report shared with us after a new AT Consult was done with a consultant from our IU (Intermediate Unit) who is a part of the TaC (training and consultation) Team.

You can find your Intermediate Unit by visiting the PA Intermediate Unit (PAIU) website.

AT Your Service: The Crucial Role of Assistive Technology (AT) Specialists

Please remember, these are examples that were identified for my son to trial. AT and AAC should be person-centered to meet the needs of each student, and that includes having time to trial options, not just forcing options. Conversations about this should be ongoing, as students and technology change, it’s important to review and revise. Students should also be a part of these conversations.

Technology is so helpful to all of us, I hope this piqued your interest in exploring what is out there.

Melissa Skiffen, Disability and Family Support Advocate

Achieva

Tammi and Tanaya standing in front of the Community Food Bank sign

Greater Pittsburgh Community Foodbank Creates Flexible Space for People with Autism and Hidden Differences

Autism Connection has made a couple visits to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank to talk about hidden differences. Maria Montaro, Corporate and Community Engagement Manager, organized the sessions, and she surprised us with adjustments the organization has made over the past few months. Creating an inclusive, flexible environment has become a force that drives the Food Bank’s mission.

Training and Consultation

Maria recognizes the importance of getting multiple perspectives, and training is one of her top priorities. Autism Connection had the opportunity to include Tanaya Hairston, an Achieva Early Intervention employee who has volunteered for sensory friendly performances at the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. Her insight as a volunteer working with people on the autism spectrum was invaluable. The group shared experiences, brainstormed solutions, and created a plan of action.

Tanaya smiling into the camera holding a peace sign with her fingers

Tanaya Hairston smiling with excitement about sharing her experience

Adjusting the Environment for Inclusive Volunteer Opportunities

After the talk, Maria took time to take Autism Connection on a tour of the facility to show what ideas we shared were implemented. The results are stellar!

Clear signage and directions upon entering the building
Adjustable lighting
Quiet spaces
Easy access to sensory aids
Visual cues that provide direction and set expectations
Magnifying lenses
Noise canceling headphones
Comfortable, adjustable seating
Cushioned floor mats
Tasks broken down into one or two steps at a time
Breaks when needed

: Easy access to sensory aids with signage

: Each sensory aid is organized and clearly labeled

: Signs are throughout the building, like this one with visual aids and instructions

: Maria holds a seat mat for additional comfort

: Floor mats add extra comfort and relief for tasks that require standing

: Maria holds a pair of glasses above a bin of visual aids

: Magnifying lenses for tasks that require focus on small print

: Maria holding noise reducing headphones

Understanding Universal Design

A big part of the discussion was about Universal Design. The primary focus for this approach is to create flexible spaces that can be adjusted according to individual needs. What works for one volunteer may not work for another, and sometimes needs of one conflict with the needs of another. The Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank recognizes that we can address each person’s needs by making adjustments catered to the individual.

Autism Connection of Pennsylvania thanks Maria and the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank for demonstrating their dedication to creating inclusive spaces that can be adjusted to suit the needs of their volunteers. We can’t wait to see what developments they have in the future.

Find tips for creating similar environments: Autism, Hidden Differences and Volunteering

Background soapy bubbles with towels and soap in foreground

Autism Guide for Bathing and Showering

Helping an autistic adult who is struggling with bathing can be a gradual and patient process. Here are some strategies to provide support and encourage personal hygiene:

Understand their sensory needs: Sensory sensitivities can make the bathing experience uncomfortable or overwhelming. Take note of any specific sensory triggers and try to minimize them. For example, they might prefer a certain water temperature or specific bathing products.
Establish a consistent routine: Set up a daily or weekly bathing schedule to create predictability and structure. Routines help them know what to expect, and knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety.
Visual supports: Use visual schedules or step-by-step picture cards to help them through the bathing process. Visual aids can provide clear instructions and reduce anxiety about what comes next.
Gradual exposure: If the person is anxious about bathing, start with short sessions and gradually increase the duration over time. Offer positive reinforcement and praise for each successful attempt.
Accommodate preferences: If they dislike traditional bathing methods, explore alternatives like sponge baths, using a washcloth, or taking a shower with less water pressure.
Incorporate special interests: Integrate their special interests or favorite activities into the bathing routine to make it more enjoyable. For example, if they love a specific toy or sensory item, allow them to bring it into the bath.
Choice and control: Offer choices within the bathing process. Allow them to choose the soap or shampoo scent, the bathrobe they want to wear afterward, or the time of day they prefer to bathe.
Use social stories: Create social stories or videos that depict the importance of personal hygiene and the benefits of bathing. Social stories can be an effective way to explain new or challenging concepts in a relatable manner.
Create a sensory-friendly bathroom: Make the bathroom a comfortable and calming space. Use soft lighting, add sensory elements like scented candles or essential oils, and provide familiar and preferred towels and bath products.
Modeling and participation: Show the individual that bathing is a regular part of daily life by modeling the behavior. Consider taking baths or showers together initially to provide support and encouragement.
Offer rewards: Consider implementing a simple reward system for successful bathing attempts. This could be earning tokens for each bath, which can later be exchanged for preferred items or activities.
Seek professional support: If the challenges persist, consult with professionals, such as occupational therapists, who specialize in working with individuals with autism. They can provide personalized strategies and support.

More guidance and videos available on Autism Self Care.

Remember, each person is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Be patient, understanding, and flexible in your approach, and celebrate any progress, no matter how small. Building a trusting and supportive relationship is key to helping the autistic adult feel more comfortable with the bathing process.

Light Box Activities for Autistic People: J.J. Sedelmaier Shows us the Light

Autism Connection of PA received a special donation from J.J. Sedelmaier Productions in White Planes, New York. Sedelmaier is an animator, film producer, author, illustrator, and a creative force who understands the importance attention, art, and design. He donated a light box for Autism Connection to use for activities for people of all ages and stages on the autism spectrum.

: Light box in a box

: Illuminating objects and images

: Attention and focus

: Autism Connection logo with backlight

How Light Boxes Help

Using a light table can be a highly beneficial tool for supporting the development and engagement of autistic people of all ages and stages. The soft, diffused light emitted from the table provides a visually stimulating and calming environment, which can help regulate sensory experiences. The translucent surface allows for the exploration of various materials and objects placed on top, enabling users to engage in sensory play, fine motor skill development, and visual tracking exercises.

The illuminated table also enhances visual attention and focus, making it an excellent tool for activities such as tracing, drawing, and learning letter and number recognition. And the versatility of a light table encourages imaginative play and creativity, allowing autistic people to express themselves and engage in meaningful, multisensory experiences. Overall, incorporating a light table into the learning and therapeutic environment can facilitate their sensory integration, cognitive development, and overall well-being.

List of Light Box Activities

Shadow Play: Use the light box to create shadow puppets or objects. Experiment with different hand gestures and shapes to create original shadow stories.
Tracing Art: Place a piece of paper on the light box and trace favorite characters or objects. They can color in the traced image afterward to create their own artwork.
Tangrams: Provide tangram puzzle pieces and arrange them on the light box to create various shapes, animals, or objects. It’s a great way to enhance spatial reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Sensory Play: Fill transparent containers with colorful objects, such as beads, feathers, or buttons, and place them on the light box. Explore and sort the items based on different attributes like size, shape, or color.
X-ray Play: Gather various objects, like toys or natural objects, and place them on the light box. Observe the objects from the top and explore their internal structures, mimicking an X-ray effect.
Color Mixing: Place translucent colored materials, such as plastic sheets or stained glass shapes, on the light box. Overlap different colors and observe how they blend and create new shades.
Letter and Number Recognition: Use transparent letter or number tiles on the light box and arrange them in alphabetical or numerical order. This activity helps reinforce letter and number recognition skills.
Storytelling: Provide transparent story cards or characters and create stories on the light box. Arrange the characters, props, and backgrounds to bring imaginative tales to life.
Science Experiments: Conduct simple science experiments on the light box, such as exploring the properties of different liquids, observing the growth of plants or crystals, or investigating the refraction of light through various materials.
Building with Blocks: Combine transparent or translucent building blocks with the light box to create structures with varying colors and shapes. Experiment with balance, stability, and symmetry.

Big thanks to J.J. Sedelmaier for the donation. It will be put to good use.

Photo of Megan Cash holding her Certificate of Appreciation

Megan Montague Cash Receives Autism Connection of PA Certificate of Appreciation

Megan Montague Cash has dedicated her career to illustrating and designing for children – all children. She routinely asks for insight and feedback from the autism and disability communities as part of her project, Designing for Children with Learning Differences at Pratt Institute School of Design in Brooklyn, New York. Autism Connection of PA is thrilled to be part of the feedback loop, and we look forward to Megan’s future projects as well as the amazing designs her students create.

Letter of Appreciation

Dear Professor Montague Cash,

Autism Connection of Pennsylvania deeply appreciates and recognizes the invaluable contributions you have made in inspiring students, educators, and professionals to cultivate inclusive environments that promote growth, development, and learning for children with autism and learning differences. Your unwavering dedication, passion, and innovative teaching methods have nurtured an inclusive mindset, leaving a profound and lasting impact on the lives of numerous children and their families.

In sincere acknowledgment and deep gratitude for your exceptional achievements in the field of education and your relentless commitment to designing for children with autism and learning differences, we commend the remarkable work you have accomplished at Pratt’s Designing for Children with Learning Differences. Your exemplary efforts have exemplified an extraordinary dedication to fostering inclusivity and understanding for people on the autism spectrum.

Through this certificate, we honor your unwavering dedication, passion, and tireless endeavors in advancing the field of education and making a positive difference in the lives of autistic children and children with learning differences. Your legacy as an exceptional educator, who has dedicated their career to designing and illustrating for children, will resonate for generations to come. On behalf of the Autism Connection of Pennsylvania, we proudly present you with this Certificate of Appreciation, signed and sealed on this 28th day of June, 2023.

Learn more about Megan’s work at Design for Kids.