You know how we all like to fall into our favorite clothes or comfy slippers when we get home from a long day? Well, think about your kids as well – even though their day consists of very different types of “stress”, they too need something comforting and reassuring, and for many, a hug does the trick. But for those diagnosed on the spectrum, a hug is often the last thing they want, but… ironically the feeling of being held and supported is still something they crave.
- Quality bean-bag chairs, plush blankets and pillows, even hammocks act as another kind of “hug” that surrounds them based on the pressure they place on the item or the movement they create. You might also consider playing a game where some type of physical action or pressure is involved and needs both your participation to work, like the human wheel barrel. Another simple and easy way to support your children’s needs through their environment and empower the family at the same time!
- Place a few water sculptures with continual flowing water in the house, they’re often available at many home décor stores and offer something continuous, natural and calming to look at and listen to throughout the day. You might not even notice the difference it makes consciously, but you’ll feel it.
- Fresh flowers are another natural item that brings color, beauty and nature into the home, creating an opportunity to have your child interact, take responsibility for something they can actually witness growing that offers color, texture and creates a sense of importance for your child. It’s also an opportunity to do something together and share in one another’s experience.
If you’re concerned you don’t have a “green thumb” you can always buy some fake, realistic looking plants or flowers and use them as a helpful visual and something you can talk about. They’re not just for special occasions and holidays folks!
“The secret to manifesting anything that you desire is your willingness and ability to realign yourself so that your inner world is in harmony with the power of intention.”
Dr. Wayne Dyer “The Power of Intention”
Guest Writer – Lauren S. Henry
I’m a Sensory Designer / Color Expert and am the President / Founder of With a Brush of Love. www.brushoflove.com. We’ve been featured on HGTV’s “kidspace”, ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.” as well as “CNN-HLN” We’ve been invited by the U.S. Military & The Exceptional Family Member Program to Camp Foster in Okinawa to work w/their families as well as the volunteer organization, Hands On Tokyo to oversee the renovation of a Nursery/Orphanage. My first book, “Unique Kids. Unique Surroundings.” was published in September 2009 & can be found on www.amazon.com & www.brushoflove.com. We were covered in The Huffington Post in Sept 2010