The ZAC Foundation for Children's Safety’s Post

Many families face challenges as they introduce water therapy to their child with autism. Transitioning out of enjoyable activities can be especially tough for these children, leading to stress and meltdowns. However, with the innovative strategies used by therapists like Karen Reckamp and Yifat Cohen, transitions can become smoother and more manageable. From picture schedules to creative water games, these techniques help children embrace change while making therapy enjoyable and effective. Water activities provide a unique and engaging way to support skill development and emotional growth. https://wix.to/HbfD5sh #aquatictherapy #hydrotherapy #aquatictherapyuniversity #waterrehab

🌟 Creating Safe Spaces at Autism Camp Australia 🌟 At Autism Camp Australia, safety and comfort are our top priorities. We understand that a supportive environment is essential for Autistic young people to thrive and fully engage in their experiences. Here’s how we create safe and nurturing spaces for every AYP: 🏕️ Sensory-Friendly Environments: Our camps are designed with sensory sensitivities in mind. We offer calming areas equipped with soft lighting, comfortable seating, and calming tools such as weighted blankets and fidget toys. These spaces provide a retreat for campers who may feel overwhelmed, allowing them to recharge and feel secure. 📅 Structured Routines: We implement structured daily routines that provide predictability, helping campers feel more at ease. By outlining daily schedules and activities, we ensure that each AYP knows what to expect, reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of stability. 👩🏫 Trained and Supportive Staff: Our dedicated team includes trained professionals who understand the diverse needs of Autistic Young People. They are skilled in recognising signs of distress and providing immediate support. Their compassionate approach ensures that every camper feels understood and valued throughout their time at camp. 🤝 Open Communication: We prioritise open communication with families to better understand each AYP's unique needs and preferences. Before camp, we encourage parents to share insights about their AYP’s comfort levels and sensory requirements, allowing us to tailor the camp experience to fit each camper perfectly. 💙 Ready for a safe and fun adventure? Join us for an enriching camp experience where safety, support, and enjoyment go hand in hand. We’re committed to creating an environment where every AYP can explore, learn, and make lasting memories with confidence. 🔗 https://lnkd.in/gBBWSZ5F #SafeSpaces #AutismCampAustralia #SensorySupport #InclusiveEnvironment #SupportiveCommunity #AdventureAwaits

https://lnkd.in/geSeWvwn... Empowering Calm: The Benefits of 'Move the Walls' for... Children with disabilities, autism, or other additional needs often benefit from activities that promote physical engagement and sensory regulation. One such... #CalmBenefits #MoveWalls #ChildrenWithDisabilities #Autism #AdditionalBenefits #ActivitiesForChildren #SpecialNeedsSupport #InclusivePlay

Autism CRC recently released their new National Practice Guideline Resources, designed to aid practitioners and families in supporting autistic children. The new Guideline Resources include a number of tools such as: 📚 an eLearning short course on Guideline-based practice 📚 comprehensive materials for pre-service education 📚 tailored resources aimed at aiding individuals and families in managing their journeys These tools are designed to complement the National Guideline for the learning, participation, and wellbeing of autistic children and their families, introduced in 2023. The guideline underscores evidence-based practices essential for fostering the development, participation in childhood activities, and overall wellbeing of autistic children. 👉 Check out all you need to know, here: https://lnkd.in/grW_pCPB

There are examples of good practice, with positive stories from autistic children and young adults across the country. At NAAAE we are harnessing this and the solution focused expertise from across the education sector to make education better for all autistic and neurodivergent learners, with or without a diagnosis. Everyone involved with education should attend one of our free regional events, making autism education better, together. Our next events are in Thirsk and Bradford https://lnkd.in/eH8umP_b Broken the system maybe, it's going to take all of us working together to fix it. #advancingautismeducation @bridgetphillipsonMP

Signs of reassurance How do you know that you are meant to do what you do? It could be because it brings you joy or freedom or money. Working with disabled children combines many things that give me many good feelings: Being connected to children and families Being present and paying attention to details finding solutions to problems Sharing experiences, Learning and teaching making parents feel more skilled and confident with their children All these fill me with good vibes. My passion lies in early intervention. I studied and gained so much experience with tiny children. The universe is listening; just when I was about to let it go and change my profile, families of very young children started to reach out. Is this a sign? I take it as one and welcome it wholeheartedly. #earlyintervention #movementdisorders #movementmatter #together

As the new school year approaches, families with children who have disabilities, medical conditions or other identified needs may have questions about how to prepare. Careful planning and support can make a significant difference in ensuring a positive and successful school year for your child, no matter their grade. Check out our latest blog post, which offers helpful tips to keep in mind as you prepare for the upcoming school year. #BackToSchool #SpecialEducation #DisabilityResources #PICSMN #YourChoicesOurSupport

As a parent, nothing prepares you for the moment you have to sit down with your child—again—and explain why another school shooting happened. This time, it was only 46 miles away. My 11-year-old daughter and I had the same heartbreaking conversation that so many families have had across the country, as our children try to understand why their schools, places that should feel safe, become the scene of violence. School shootings are not just statistics. They are real lives, real families, and real communities that are forever changed. Marginalized groups, including students of color, low-income communities, and those with disabilities, face even more risk, living in areas where resources are more scarce and safety measures are often inadequate. Students with disabilities, in particular, are disproportionately impacted by these events. Not only do they face the same physical dangers, but they often endure long-term trauma with far less support. This is not the world I want my daughter to grow up in. As parents, we shouldn’t have to have these conversations—yet we have, time and time again. The question I keep asking myself is: How can we protect our most vulnerable, our children? How do we make sure that marginalized communities are not just considered, but prioritized in the conversations about school safety? We need more than thoughts and prayers. We need real change, and it starts by recognizing that this isn’t just a school issue, but a systemic one. #SystemicImprovement #SchoolSafety #GunViolence #Equity #DisabilityRights #ProtectOurChildren #MentalHealth #ContinuousImprovement

I am sure many will welcome this news but in my experience with our youngest son, schools seem to make their own rules for neurodiverse children, particularly autism. Children without any official diagnosis who have social interaction problems are treated as uncooperative and disruptive, which the school believes can only be sorted out with detentions, placing in retracking (special measures for extreme behaviour, supposed to be used for "naughty" children) or exclusions. Reducing exclusions maybe a council priority, but it is meaningless if the schools do not change. https://lnkd.in/eR-pRcwr

Get out your pen and paper, it’s back to school season! ✏️ 📒 🎒 Here are some excellent tips for any parent/guardian with children with disabilities. Change in routine can be difficult for some. Luckily, we have tools to try and midigate the effects. Speak up, ask questions and get resources from your school and support systems. Consider using this opportunity to start teaching your child about unapologetic self advocacy. Great article PICS (Partners in Community Supports)! #disabilityinclusion #disabilityresources