A couple of years ago, a friend reposted something from WholeHearted School Counselors that I have taken to heart:
What to Tell Myself When I’m Feeling Discouraged
- This is tough, but so am I.
- I may not be able to control this situation, but I am in charge of how I respond.
- I haven’t figured this out . . . yet.
- This challenge is here to teach me something.
- All I need to do is take it one step at a time. Breathe. And do the next right thing.
It seems to me that this is not just helpful to those of us who care for folks with disabilities, but as a mantra to teach our loved ones as they navigate the world. Perhaps this could be this summer’s teaching goal.
And speaking of summer, there are all sorts of free resources for activities and day trips in Ohio. MetroParks have all sorts of interesting things happening – from unique events to hiking and picnic areas, there’s something for everyone!
Your local library is also a source of fun. The summer reading program is a way to encourage reading at home – listening to audiobooks counts! There may be a club or activity that fits with your loved one’s interests. For instance, some of the branches of the Dayton Library have Anime and Manga clubs. Overall, libraries have been working hard to be more inclusive and to serve the neurodiverse better. Delphos Ohio Library has recently added an adult changing table – which they transported to Delphos Canal Days to serve the community. Many libraries have sensory story times, or offer accommodations in every story time, like weighted lap pads, sensory items and noise-cancelling headphones. Some offer passes to local attractions that can be checked out with your library card.
COSI in Columbus is sponsoring a free outdoor event from June 7 through 15 – The Science of Big Machines. You can climb inside real construction machines and operate them! Learn the science behind roads and buildings.
More and more festivals and attractions are offering sensory spaces or sensory bags to assist those with Autism with access. If you have an interest, call ahead to find out just what accommodations are available – you will be able to tell a lot about how welcoming a venue is in that conversation (trust your instincts!).
Search the internet for free activities in your area — and if you find something great, please share it on ASO’s Facebook or Instagram to let other families know. Sometimes, we run across these things by accident. After I sent my draft of this newsletter, I happened upon a free event in Fayette County. Picnic in the Park is scheduled from 11 am to 2 pm on June 30 at Eyman Park and Splash Pad. Information is available here.
Kathi J. Machle, President, Autism Society of Ohio