Ashray Akruti’s Post

How do you speak to your children? When engaging in conversation with our children, it's crucial to treat them as equals. Just like adults, children crave to be heard, understood, and taken seriously. How we communicate with them shapes not only their understanding of the world but also their self-esteem and confidence. Consider this: do you speak to your children in a manner that reflects equality, or do you unknowingly elevate yourself by using language you wouldn't employ with other adults? In my perspective, children are like mini-adults. They possess thoughts, feelings, and ideas worthy of acknowledgment and respect. By fostering conversations with them using adult language—without condescension or belittlement—we empower them to express themselves freely and develop critical communication skills from an early age. Research shows that children whose voices are valued and respected in conversation tend to exhibit higher self-esteem, emotional intelligence, and problem-solving abilities. By engaging in meaningful dialogue with our children, we not only foster stronger relationships but also equip them with invaluable life skills for navigating the complexities of adulthood. Remember: Empowering children through respectful conversation lays the foundation for confident, empathetic adults who will shape our future. #empowerkids #ParentingTips #PositiveParenting #ConversationSkills #FamilyBonding

Our recent survey has brought a critical issue to light: 38% of participants reported a diagnosis of both deafness and autism. This significant overlap raises important questions about the nature of these diagnoses. Are we truly seeing a high prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among deaf children, or could some of these cases be attributed to language deprivation? ASD affects approximately 1.5% of the population and can occur with or without intellectual disability. The diagnostic criteria for ASD require evidence of difficulties in social communication and restricted, repetitive behaviours. However, diagnosing ASD in deaf children is particularly complex due to overlapping symptoms with language deprivation. Deaf children without ASD but who experience language deprivation often show social and emotional developmental delays. These can include a lack of awareness or sensitivity towards communicative partners, delays in self-regulation, and difficulties in forming social relationships. Such delays can closely mimic the symptoms of ASD, complicating the diagnostic process. This raises the question: Are these children truly autistic, or are their symptoms a result of inadequate language exposure in their early years? The lack of comprehensive research in this area leaves families and clinicians navigating a challenging landscape with insufficient guidance. The risk of linguistic neglect is a serious concern not only in remote or rural areas but also in metropolitan regions. Many families feel isolated and overwhelmed, unsure of where to seek help and support. At PODC, we have seen firsthand how providing a rich language environment can lead to significant improvements in children. In some cases, these improvements have even led to a re-evaluation of the autism diagnosis, suggesting that the initial symptoms were potentially a result of language deprivation rather than ASD. There is an urgent need for targeted research to better understand the prevalence and characteristics of ASD in deaf children. More comprehensive studies can inform the development of effective support services tailored to the unique needs of these children and their families. With adequate research and resources, we can ensure that families receive the support they need and that children have the opportunity to thrive. Families have shared their experiences of feeling isolated and unsupported. One parent mentioned, "When my child was diagnosed with both deafness and autism, I felt lost. The support system seemed inadequate, and I didn't know where to turn for help." At PODC, we are dedicated to bridging this gap. We strive to advocate for more targeted research and the necessary resources to provide these families with the support they deserve. We can not overlook that 38% of our families have been left without answers. We need to do better.

Not everyone is an auditory learner! However, there's a powerful tool that has proven to be immensely beneficial for kids with autism: visuals and pictures. Incorporating visuals into educational activities can make a world of difference for children with autism. #Autism #AutismAwareness #Inclusion #Inclusiveology #Learning #SpecialEducation Iep #ParentingTips #ParentCoaching #Neurodiversity https://wix.to/Rj0Ihzm

As early childhood educators, it’s essential to approach these occasions with sensitivity and inclusivity, ensuring every child feels valued and included. It’s also helpful to ensure that all crafts are gender and role-inclusive. Here’s how to navigate these celebrations with empathy and creativity, while addressing the emotional challenges that may arise.

🌟The Role of Parents in Teaching Kids Self-Expression🌟 🔊 In today's world, the ability to express oneself is more important than ever. 🔊 As parents, one of our most vital responsibilities is to guide our children in learning how to communicate their thoughts, emotions, and ideas effectively. 🔊 Children learn by example, so it’s essential that we, as parents, demonstrate healthy ways to express our own emotions. 🔊 Encouraging open dialogue in the home creates a safe space where children feel heard and understood. 🔊 This fosters their confidence in sharing their feelings and teaches them the importance of empathy. 🔊 In a world where digital communication is prevalent, the ability to express oneself clearly and authentically remains a critical skill. ⚙️ What strategies have you found effective in helping your children express themselves? #Empowermentcoaching #Lifecoach #Parenting #ChildDevelopment #CommunicationSkills #SelfExpression #FamilyFirst

Are You Struggling to Understand the Autistic Person in Your Life? Whether you're a parent struggling to understand your autistic child, a supervisor who needs insight into how your autistic employee thinks, or an autistic person who wants to talk to someone who just gets it, I offer one-on-one consultations that suit your individual needs! Choose from personalized text consultations, one-on-one video translation sessions with me, or comprehensive video sessions with myself and my strategist, Katherine T. Lorelli, a neurodivergent paraprofessional with a Bachelor's degree in Child Development and Family Relations and extensive experience supporting students with complex learning needs. (Click on the link below to book your consultation now.) https://buff.ly/3fMCBCM #Autism #Autistic #ActuallyAutistic #AutismMom #AutismDad #AutismParent #Neurodiversity #Neurodivergent #Disability #Employment #Business

The connection between a parent or educator and a neurodiverse child is foundational to their emotional development. When children feel understood and supported, they are more likely to develop the emotional tools they need to thrive. Building trust and fostering open communication are key elements of this process. What methods have you found effective in building strong relationships with neurodiverse children? Let’s share insights. #ParentChildConnection #EmotionalGrowth #NeurodiversitySupport #SpecialEducation #ChildDevelopment

There's a significant difference between these two terms. As a special educator, we always encourage those working closely with children with special needs to express empathy rather than sympathy. Our common goal is better development. Empathy can bring about positive change in someone's life, while sympathy is just an emotion – you can feel it, but real change happens with empathy. Please share your thoughts and experiences. . . #cwsn #specialneedskids #differentlyabled #specialeducation #understandingspecialabilities

Want to raise a generation rooted in empathy, cherishing diversity? 🌍 Let's revisit the art of teaching. Here's how... Diversity is our future, not just a buzzword. Picture a playground. Kids of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities playing together 🧒👧🎒. Not a fantastical utopia, but an achievable reality through education. Teaching children about inclusivity and empathy transcends preventing bullying. It enriches their lives 🎆. By embracing diversity, they appreciate the world's wide spectrum 🌈 and celebrate, not fear, differences. Starting these conversations: 1. Share world stories 🌏. 2. Advocate curiosity and truthful answers 🗣. 3. Model empathy. Kids learn by observation 👀. The outcome? A generation cherishing diversity, practising inclusivity, and leading with empathy 💓. A generation primed to collectively confront global challenges. Let's not preach diversity to our children, let's demonstrate it. What are your thoughts? Share your experiences/tips on promoting inclusivity and empathy below ⬇️. #Diversity #Empathy #Inclusivity #Education #FutureGenerations #Teaching #GlobalCitizenship #ChildDevelopment #CulturalAwareness #CelebrateDifferences #StopBullying #InclusiveEducation

At Always Keep Progressing, we believe every word counts when it comes to a child's development. Speech therapy plays a vital role in helping children express themselves, build confidence, and unlock their full potential. By working on communication skills early, we're not just teaching words. We're empowering voices that will shape the future🚀✨ #SpeechTherapy #ChildDevelopment #EarlyIntervention #OccupationalTherapy #AlwaysKeepProgressing