Tag Archives: autism

Rethinking Autism: A Parent’s Guide to Navigating Life with an Autistic Child : How to Identify Early Signs Kindle Edition by Bev A. Lanier (Book Review)

Discover powerful communication strategies to become your child’s strongest ally and advocate. If you’re losing sleep over your child’s behavior or feeling frustrated with the lack of support, this guide is your go-to resource.

As a parent of a child with autism, understanding their unique communication style is crucial. This guide takes you on a transformative journey, starting with observing your child’s cues and delving into their world. Drawing on your own childhood experiences, you’ll realize your innate ability to be their window to the world.

Navigate through the complexities of autism with insights into the three levels, physiological reasons for behavioral challenges, and gender differences in communication. Learn from real-life stories, identify signs of autism, and explore various therapies, including speech, physical, and occupational therapy.

This guide goes beyond therapies, exploring the neurodivergent brain’s magic and providing communication strategies tailored to each autism level. Discover tools for establishing routines, handling challenges, and prioritizing your well-being to avoid burnout.

This guide empowers you to be the expert on your child’s needs, making informed choices that lead to victories and a more purposeful life. Take a breath; help is here for your parenting journey.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

What is ASD (autism spectrum disorder)? As the author said quite eloquently, “autism” is more than just a label we can assign to people. It is a framework that can guide us through raising these individuals to become the best versions of themselves. 

Even though the first diagnosis occurred in 1943 by Leo Kanner, a psychiatrist, we still have much to understand about the condition. What doctors look for are common tell-tell signs or indicators on the “spectrum”: repetitive behavioral patterns and hyperfocus on interests or activities. The writer breaks down the three levels, which tell us more than just a child’s level of proximity to either end of the spectrum: from functioning independently to those who require assistance with everyday tasks. 

What I learned that fascinated me was more kids are being misdiagnosed with ASD. On the flip side, many kids never get diagnosed with it and should have so they can get proper care. I was also amazed by the number of famous people believed to have autism, such as Jerry Seinfeld (actor and comedian) and Elon Musk. It just shows that sometimes you never know who has autism and who doesn’t. One thing is apparent: you can’t look at a newborn and know they will have ASD or not. However, as a child grows, there are signs that you should be on the lookout for and share with your doctor. Bev A. Lanier (the author) discusses these in Chapter Two: “What to Look For,” alongside possible causes, preparing for evaluation, and what should you expect. I would advise reading this area carefully and possibly more than once. It’s a lot of information to absorb in one sitting. 

As I said earlier, Bev A. Lanier mentions different levels on the autism spectrum. As you read chapter three, you’ll get valuable intel on the lowest level, formerly known as Asperger’s, to level three, where an individual will require substantial support. No matter what “level” you or your loved one lands on, getting a diagnosis from a trained professional, the initial point of treatment, is important, as stated in Chapter 4. Remember, each person is different, so “treatments” must be catered to your or your child’s mind and body. Speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational medicine, non-invasive activities, and meds are tools you must utilize to bring out the best versions of your autistic child. With all that in mind, treatments will change as your child grows older and becomes more independent. I want to note there is more to this subject matter; I am merely touching the tip of the iceberg regarding the information presented.

As you move into Chapter Five, we get a closer look at the brain and how the spectrum shapes it. Okay, this section brings me back to my school days. Lots of science information that I can see people glossing over. I imagine the average person will focus more on treatment options, resources, or the mini stories between each chapter. Bev made a wise choice including the heartwarming tales. Just hearing your child has ASD can strike fear in any parent’s heart, but these stories give glimmers of hope to many parents. Hope that one day their own child will be thriving like David, Sofia, Liam, and the other kids.

There are challenges with having ASD or taking care of someone with ASD. As the author pointed out, it affects language, reaction to stimuli, social interactions, behavior, and how we manage tasks. Parents, as overwhelmed as you might feel, remember you are not alone, and all your feelings regarding the diagnosis are normal. Take the writer’s advice and set time aside for yourself. Do something that you enjoy. Join a support group. Remember, we all need help now and then, so never be afraid to ask for some! 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤

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Meet the Author

As a neurodivergent mom of three neurodivergent children, I am on a journey of understanding, advocacy, and empowerment. My life has been shaped by the diverse neurodiversity in my family, and I am passionate about sharing my knowledge and experiences with others. Through my writing, I aim to provide support, guidance, and a sense of community to fellow parents and individuals who are navigating the neurodiverse landscape. Together, we can embrace and celebrate the unique strengths and perspectives that neurodiversity brings to our lives.

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Around The World with Moby- My First Trip! by Muzna Kazim (Book Review)

Around the World with Moby is about an awesome 8-year-old-boy with autism who suffers from travel anxiety. Moby is always scared to explore new things or go on a vacation. His parents were concerned that Moby is missing out on many new learning experiences as he likes to just stay at home and repeat the same schedule every single day. So, they decide to take him out on a short vacation to Minneapolis, Minnesota. A trip that includes a 3-hour flight, a hotel-stay and exploring the city of Minneapolis. The parents prepared for his trip by implementing helpful tools to cope with his fear and anxiety.

Will these tools help Moby stay calm?

Will they enable him to adapt to a brief change in his daily schedule?

Will he have fun?

Let’s find out in the story.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

Adults have anxiety about traveling, so it’s not a far leap to think children would suffer from the same issue. 

In Around The World with Moby- My First Trip! by Muzna Kazim, we meet Moby, an 8-year-old with autism who fears traveling. Moby’s Mama tries to soothe his fears. She tells him the trip to Minneapolis is only temporary. She gives him a calendar so he can prepare for the upcoming event. She read him stories about plane rides. They watch videos together. His Mama’s thoughtful and helpful ideas ease Moby’s fear and anxiety. When they reach the airport, Mama has more tricks to help her autistic child through this sensory-overloading adventure. Now, Moby’s Mama wasn’t the only one helping Moby feel calm during the adventure. His Dad was there, discussing the mechanics of the plane, which kept Moby’s mind at peace. What a blessed family!

The excursion was not smooth sailing. Bumps in the road will occur whether a child is on the autism spectrum or not. However, suppose they are, Around The World with Moby- My First Trip! gives parents valuable tools to help their child prepare for a trip, helps a child handle new experiences and challenges, and even shows families all the fun you can have in Minneapolis. There are even pages dedicated to when they came home. The ‘after the trip” events were just as important as the ‘let’s prepare for the trip’ sections. You don’t have to have an autistic child to benefit from any idea in the book. All children feel stress over new situations! 

Around The World with Moby- My First Trip! by Muzna Kazim is a remarkable book. The illustrations by Rabindra Nath Barman were big, bold, and colorful and elevated an already fantastic story. 

I recommend that families and schools add this book to their libraries. 

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: 
❤❤

Amazon Purchase Link

 

Meet the Author

San Diego based author Muzna Kazim completed her Master’s in Public Health from National University in 2016. She majored in Health Promotion with a research study in Autism. She worked as a Behavior Interventionist for kids with autism and advocates inclusivity and equal opportunities for them.

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Cerebral Palsy: ‘A Story’ Finding the Calm After the Storm by Ilana Estelle (Book Review)

 
Living with cerebral palsy is enormously difficult. But what if you never knew you had it? This is the incredible story of Ilana Estelle.

Born the second of premature twins, from a young age Ilana knew she was different, but for all the wrong reasons. A child of the 60s, Ilana experienced first-hand the way that disability was so often brushed under the carpet and not spoken about. Her constant physical and mental struggles made her feel isolated, alone, frustrated, and misunderstood… it took 46 years for her to find out why.

Part memoir, part motivational guide, Cerebral Palsy: A Story is Ilana’s open and honest journey from an angry, confused child, knowing something was wrong, but not knowing what, to the ‘real’ her – a courageous woman using her experiences and lessons to create inspiring messages about mental and physical health, positivity, resilience and change. 

 
 
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I received a complimentary copy of this book from iRead Book Tours. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
 
 
Cerebral Palsy: A Story: Finding the Calm After the Storm informed me about 11 secondary conditions connected to CP (cerebral palsy). The memoir also gave me facts that escaped me until now. For example, 800,000 individuals have CP, and 10,000 people are born with it each year. Ilana Estelle also explained how the brain is affected in those with cerebral palsy. There are physical limitations. People also face emotional and mental roadblocks. 


She went in-depth on how emotional stress can affect a CP’s immunity. A positive attitude, surrounding yourself with positive people is vital for a CP person’s overall health. Ilana Estelle gave examples of how to achieve a happy mind, cope with stress, and live a healthier life. 


There were many sections in Cerebral Palsy: A Story: Finding the Calm that could apply to those not living with CP: foods to maintain good high blood pressure, foods that alleviate arthritis pain, and parenting tips. At times, these areas seemed to deter away from the topic at hand—cerebral palsy. While I appreciate the extra health tips and her parenting advice, I wanted more about her journey in life with CP. 


Ilana Estelle discussed the misdiagnosis at the age of 2 (2.5). She spoke of the lack of family support  (often) and felt guilty and depressed about failing in life. She also emphasized what she learned in the process. 

  • know your limitations
  • ask for help
  • gain knowledge about your condition

To parents, she stressed having a sit-down and make sure all siblings are aware that people with CP need patience, understanding, compassion, and assistance. 


While Ilana Estelle has struggled in life and will as she continues her journey in this world, I’m pleased to see she’s not bitter or angry over what’s occurred in the past. She’s working hard to achieve a happy mind. Peaceful soul. 


You can’t change the past, but your actions today can pave the road for a better tomorrow. 

 
 
Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: 
 
 
Buy the Book:
Amazon US ~ Amazon.UK
B&N ~ BAM ~ IndieBound ~ Waterstones
Add to Goodreads
 
 
 
 
 
Meet the Author:
Picture

 
Ilana was born with a disability she didn’t know she had until the age of 46, when through her medical notes she discovered she had been diagnosed with cerebral palsy at the age of 2.

That discovery turned out to be a unique and life-changing experience that has forced Ilana to stand back and look at her life experiences differently. On her late diagnosis, Ilana set up her website The CP Diary and uses her experiences to explore her emotional and physical health, with an inspiring message advocating resilience and change.

Ilana likes to spend her days writing and blogging about anything that contributes to her health and well being. She is an animal advocate and is passionate about environmental issues. When she is not writing to tending to her blog, Ilana enjoys days out exploring the Yorkshire countryside. Ilana lives with her husband and their much-loved cat, in Yorkshire. Her grown up son and daughter both live in London.

Connect with the author: 
website ~ twitter ~ facebook ~ pinterest ~ goodreads

 
 

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