From Bears (Barry Neil Kaufman): ODE TO SAMAHRIA
ODE TO SAMAHRIA: By Bears (Barry Neil Kaufman - Son-Rise Program Co-Originator). Complete Version.
Samahria picked me to love when she was 17. When I presented my writing and ideas with intensity, she tickled me and laughed. When I hesitated, she said "jump." When Raun became autistic, she joined him in his world (in a small bathroom) and helped us begin a three-and-a-half year journey that created a treatment revolution (The Son-Rise Program®) for children with autism. When I suggested adopting yet another child of trauma as a way to express our gratitude for our blessings, she said "when?" When we started the Institute, she worked with me side-by-side as we created classes and curriculum as well as cleaned buildings and made beds for arriving participants. When I have written my books about our work with families and children and what we and our staff teach to adults (Option Process®), she has been more than my sounding board but my editor and biggest fan (and co-writer of one of those books and co-screenwriter of the Son-Rise movie). When I asked her to climb down a rope ladder on an ocean-liner during a storm in order to help my dying father, she took a deep breath, pushed through her fear and lowered herself right after me into a tiny fishing boat bobbing in the icy waves off the coast of Alaska.
And, when I am tired at night after teaching, doing sessions and meeting with staff all day (just as she had done), Samahria strolls into my office where I am still working, takes my hand gently and invites me to choose life and go to sleep. We're all blessed for a multitude of reasons. Helping individuals, families and children as best we can for decades is a continuous highlight of our lives. But my greatest blessing is to be loved by my very special life-long bride and best friend and sweet mama to all our children -- she loves me like no other, inspires me to do my best and builds bridges with me to our dreams.
Samahria picked me to love when she was 17. When I presented my writing and ideas with intensity, she tickled me and laughed. When I hesitated, she said "jump." When Raun became autistic, she joined him in his world (in a small bathroom) and helped us begin a three-and-a-half year journey that created a treatment revolution (The Son-Rise Program®) for children with autism. When I suggested adopting yet another child of trauma as a way to express our gratitude for our blessings, she said "when?" When we started the Institute, she worked with me side-by-side as we created classes and curriculum as well as cleaned buildings and made beds for arriving participants. When I have written my books about our work with families and children and what we and our staff teach to adults (Option Process®), she has been more than my sounding board but my editor and biggest fan (and co-writer of one of those books and co-screenwriter of the Son-Rise movie). When I asked her to climb down a rope ladder on an ocean-liner during a storm in order to help my dying father, she took a deep breath, pushed through her fear and lowered herself right after me into a tiny fishing boat bobbing in the icy waves off the coast of Alaska.
And, when I am tired at night after teaching, doing sessions and meeting with staff all day (just as she had done), Samahria strolls into my office where I am still working, takes my hand gently and invites me to choose life and go to sleep. We're all blessed for a multitude of reasons. Helping individuals, families and children as best we can for decades is a continuous highlight of our lives. But my greatest blessing is to be loved by my very special life-long bride and best friend and sweet mama to all our children -- she loves me like no other, inspires me to do my best and builds bridges with me to our dreams.
Labels: Attitude, Bears, Celebrations, Samahria
Read more!
posted by (Bears) Barry Neil Kaufman, Founder, Option Inst. at
9:46 AM
0 Comments
Monday, October 19, 2009
Seeing Autism as a Gift/Post From Bears
From Bears (Barry Neil Kaufman): Yesterday, while exercising, I watched a program on autism with comments by professionals and parents, all apparently doing ABA. Most of the folks interviewed appeared solemn and burdened by their situations. What a blessing for those of us who have learned (in The Son-Rise Program) to embrace our special children with autism and our other challenges as gifts and opportunities. Pass it on.
Read more!
posted by Administrator at
10:56 AM
0 Comments
Friday, September 11, 2009
Turned My Life Around in 72 Hours
Dear Ellen:
God love you because I do, big time. Whenever I read one of your posts on our Facebook walls, the energy, enthusiasm and love just jumps out from your words. But what I particularly note is how truly smart and helpful your comments are...like "I am writing Adam right now." Often, your notations highlight a program or a process or even give guidance. Terrific.
Love and appreciation, Bears
PS: Hey, would you want to join our bloggers on either/or/and OI and ATCA sites. These blogs now stream onto the OI and ATCA Facebook Fan pages so it gets to many more folks (1000 plus at OI, 1500 plus at ATCA). And your posts on my page, goes to over 1500. We want to recruit bloggers who are smart, savvy, fun, sincere, loving and have something to say...and who would do their best to post at least once a week...maybe twice if possible. Let me know what you think? Again, big love and gratitude
Oh Bears!
Thanks so much! It is one of my greatest pleasures to be helpful to The Option Institute. Everyone there helped sooo much in getting me to The Son-Rise Program® Start up (2 weeks ago I believe) for Emma... it was so perfect, a week of coming to terms with her issues in an honest way (that was a long time coming, huh (big smile)? And learning with totally clarity of purpose how tangibly I could help her. I came home and within 72 hrs had a temporary play room done, $600.00 in donations toward the real focus room, poster designed and at the printer.. when I know what I want.... had done 6 hrs of heavenly playroom time with my daughter, and had spectacular results--- stooling on the toilet for the first time! These are great things for us. I would love to help others to know that this program can help kids like mine, ones that would fall through the cracks, that aren't diagnosable (is that a word?!) but still have real issues that get in their way.. it's such a great program for our whole family.
When you walked into the classroom Thursday of that week, tears of joy streamed down my face.. yes, indeed, I was glad to see you, but also in that moment, I really realized that I had found a way (that was there all the time) to let my beloved Option Institute help Emma, my most precious gift.
I would adore blogging for you ... I will keep it in mind as I embark on this journey with The Son-Rise Program and Emma. I want to focus right now on getting my Son-Rise Program up and running, my business bringing in money, and being of assistance to Chris who has had a tremendous opportunity given to him ... his employer of 20 years berated him, stripped him of all is responsibilities and cut his pay 20%. The great news is that because of all his work at The Institute, in the middle of this he almost had to keep himself from laughing.... realizing it was truly all about them. What a gift. Anyway, how about if I just send you ( or whoever I should send it to) anything I write that's relevant, and you can use it or not as you see fit . I can't promise I will make time, but if I do, I will send on something. I hope this helps. I love all of you so much.. as usual please feel free to send a copy of this to anyone there etc. Deep, deep oceans of gratitude.
Love, Ellen
God love you because I do, big time. Whenever I read one of your posts on our Facebook walls, the energy, enthusiasm and love just jumps out from your words. But what I particularly note is how truly smart and helpful your comments are...like "I am writing Adam right now." Often, your notations highlight a program or a process or even give guidance. Terrific.
Love and appreciation, Bears
PS: Hey, would you want to join our bloggers on either/or/and OI and ATCA sites. These blogs now stream onto the OI and ATCA Facebook Fan pages so it gets to many more folks (1000 plus at OI, 1500 plus at ATCA). And your posts on my page, goes to over 1500. We want to recruit bloggers who are smart, savvy, fun, sincere, loving and have something to say...and who would do their best to post at least once a week...maybe twice if possible. Let me know what you think? Again, big love and gratitude
Oh Bears!
Thanks so much! It is one of my greatest pleasures to be helpful to The Option Institute. Everyone there helped sooo much in getting me to The Son-Rise Program® Start up (2 weeks ago I believe) for Emma... it was so perfect, a week of coming to terms with her issues in an honest way (that was a long time coming, huh (big smile)? And learning with totally clarity of purpose how tangibly I could help her. I came home and within 72 hrs had a temporary play room done, $600.00 in donations toward the real focus room, poster designed and at the printer.. when I know what I want.... had done 6 hrs of heavenly playroom time with my daughter, and had spectacular results--- stooling on the toilet for the first time! These are great things for us. I would love to help others to know that this program can help kids like mine, ones that would fall through the cracks, that aren't diagnosable (is that a word?!) but still have real issues that get in their way.. it's such a great program for our whole family.
When you walked into the classroom Thursday of that week, tears of joy streamed down my face.. yes, indeed, I was glad to see you, but also in that moment, I really realized that I had found a way (that was there all the time) to let my beloved Option Institute help Emma, my most precious gift.
I would adore blogging for you ... I will keep it in mind as I embark on this journey with The Son-Rise Program and Emma. I want to focus right now on getting my Son-Rise Program up and running, my business bringing in money, and being of assistance to Chris who has had a tremendous opportunity given to him ... his employer of 20 years berated him, stripped him of all is responsibilities and cut his pay 20%. The great news is that because of all his work at The Institute, in the middle of this he almost had to keep himself from laughing.... realizing it was truly all about them. What a gift. Anyway, how about if I just send you ( or whoever I should send it to) anything I write that's relevant, and you can use it or not as you see fit . I can't promise I will make time, but if I do, I will send on something. I hope this helps. I love all of you so much.. as usual please feel free to send a copy of this to anyone there etc. Deep, deep oceans of gratitude.
Love, Ellen
Labels: Attitude, Bears, Personal Growth, Training Programs
Read more!
posted by Administrator at
1:33 PM
0 Comments
Monday, August 24, 2009
Honoring Our Staff
From Bears (Barry Neil Kaufman/Co-Founder/Son-Rise Program. I wanted to share with you an allstaff email I just wrote to our staff....who just go above and beyond, all year, to be loving and supportive for so many moms, dads, professionals and volunteers wanting to learn the Son-Rise Program in order to help children with autism.
Dear Amazing Team:
To Jan-Marie/Rachel and Brian/Lori on the front/front lines with our families, to Terri and Erin...to Candy, Zoe, Dane, registration/accounting --- wow, you've rocked the roof and have brought to the Institute so many people for us to help and teach this week during the August Son-Rise Start-Up Program...moms, dads, professionals, supportive volunteers - to help them, their families and, most profoundly, their children. I have no doubt that the universe is smiling upon all of you. Given we have many Son-Rise Program Start-Ups, Maximum Impacts and New Frontiers programs each year in the United States and Europe (some with registrations in excess of 100 and 200 participants), your ability to individually talk with and personally support so many people continually throughout the year is nothing short of spectacular. And this doesn't include all the families that come each week for customized Son-Rise Program family intensives. Thank you for demonstrating so much love and dedication.
To Bryn and to Scott - your guidance, your direction, your management and your persistence with this amazing team is clearly demonstrated by the number of people we will be serving in the Son-Rise Program Start-Up today. Standing ovation to both of you.
Standing ovation to the entire Autism Treatment Center of America and Option Institute team.
I salute you! Samahria salutes you (she's saluting you right now over my shoulder as I type). I have no doubt, our Board of Directors and OMT management team, who will receive this message, will also be saluting you. You enhance our ability in the world to meaningful help countless families and their children.
PS: Big wow to all the staff, who like every program week, will show up with class, energy and love - as teachers (Samahria, Bryn, William, Kate, Carolina, Beverly, Clyde, et al.), as guest services and property management folks, as front office and back office support, in the kitchen, in our IT department, in worldwide communication and public education and in development- throughout the entire 100 acre campus, you all show up with dedication and excellence...and lot of love/big time. And the families we serve know that. Blessings to all of you!
WE HIT 90!!!
for the August Son-Rise Program Start-Up last night!
for the August Son-Rise Program Start-Up last night!
Dear Amazing Team:
To Jan-Marie/Rachel and Brian/Lori on the front/front lines with our families, to Terri and Erin...to Candy, Zoe, Dane, registration/accounting --- wow, you've rocked the roof and have brought to the Institute so many people for us to help and teach this week during the August Son-Rise Start-Up Program...moms, dads, professionals, supportive volunteers - to help them, their families and, most profoundly, their children. I have no doubt that the universe is smiling upon all of you. Given we have many Son-Rise Program Start-Ups, Maximum Impacts and New Frontiers programs each year in the United States and Europe (some with registrations in excess of 100 and 200 participants), your ability to individually talk with and personally support so many people continually throughout the year is nothing short of spectacular. And this doesn't include all the families that come each week for customized Son-Rise Program family intensives. Thank you for demonstrating so much love and dedication.
To Bryn and to Scott - your guidance, your direction, your management and your persistence with this amazing team is clearly demonstrated by the number of people we will be serving in the Son-Rise Program Start-Up today. Standing ovation to both of you.
Standing ovation to the entire Autism Treatment Center of America and Option Institute team.
I salute you! Samahria salutes you (she's saluting you right now over my shoulder as I type). I have no doubt, our Board of Directors and OMT management team, who will receive this message, will also be saluting you. You enhance our ability in the world to meaningful help countless families and their children.
PS: Big wow to all the staff, who like every program week, will show up with class, energy and love - as teachers (Samahria, Bryn, William, Kate, Carolina, Beverly, Clyde, et al.), as guest services and property management folks, as front office and back office support, in the kitchen, in our IT department, in worldwide communication and public education and in development- throughout the entire 100 acre campus, you all show up with dedication and excellence...and lot of love/big time. And the families we serve know that. Blessings to all of you!
Labels: Bears, Son-Rise Program Staff, Training Programs
Read more!
posted by (Bears) Barry Neil Kaufman, Founder, Option Inst. at
7:09 AM
0 Comments
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Wonderful Life of an 8 Year Old... Autism Recovery
Dear Friend,
The Mom in the following letter not only radiates with the daily joy of gratitude but also celebrates her son Carson's total transformation which began when she read Son-Rise: The Miracle Continues. Once lost in the inconsolable tantrums of Autism, her son now enjoys the full, wonderful life of an 8 year old.
Love and hugs , Bears
------
Good Morning Dear Ones!
I am thinking of both of you with extra special love and gratitude today, as it is my son, Carson's, eighth birthday today. When I compare where we were during the first two years of his life (a LOT of inconsolable screaming, very little sleeping, nightmarish meltdowns) to NOW (very high-functioning, doing great in school, learning to swim, socially interactive, no tantrums at all...) I am absolutely overjoyed that he is doing so wonderfully!!! I'm even happy about being happy, because I was so intensely miserable, scared, lost and alone for so long in the beginning.
Together, you both unlocked a huge door in the universe and then pointed the way for others like me to follow. I am so thankful that I discovered this path, and had the awareness to jump on and run with it. The day I started reading Son-Rise:The Miracle Continues was the most pivotal day in my entire life. I remember thinking "This is IT!" after the intro by Raun, and about the first two pages of the text. Wow! I'm still amazed by the intense power of that experience. It almost even felt like a dream.
I guess that also shows the power of that "4th E"--expression! I'm so happy that you not only worked with Raun in such a loving way, but you also shared it BIG TIME with the rest of the world. Obviously such a significant piece! And I will add that deepened learning to my inner awareness to remember how important it is for all of us to express the wonder of The Son-Rise Program, so others can have the opportunity to experience it's joys too! Including happiness and empowerment for the parents too!!!
Sending LOVE and PEACE to both of you on this very beautiful day of SON-SHINE!
Namaste,
Jeannie
p.s. I did my first "official" SR presentation last week, and it went great! Group Facilitation Training really paid off!!! The organizer of the program (social justice programs monthly at my UU church) even said this was the most moving and passionate program he had ever attended!
The Mom in the following letter not only radiates with the daily joy of gratitude but also celebrates her son Carson's total transformation which began when she read Son-Rise: The Miracle Continues. Once lost in the inconsolable tantrums of Autism, her son now enjoys the full, wonderful life of an 8 year old.
Love and hugs , Bears
Good Morning Dear Ones!
I am thinking of both of you with extra special love and gratitude today, as it is my son, Carson's, eighth birthday today. When I compare where we were during the first two years of his life (a LOT of inconsolable screaming, very little sleeping, nightmarish meltdowns) to NOW (very high-functioning, doing great in school, learning to swim, socially interactive, no tantrums at all...) I am absolutely overjoyed that he is doing so wonderfully!!! I'm even happy about being happy, because I was so intensely miserable, scared, lost and alone for so long in the beginning.
Together, you both unlocked a huge door in the universe and then pointed the way for others like me to follow. I am so thankful that I discovered this path, and had the awareness to jump on and run with it. The day I started reading Son-Rise:The Miracle Continues was the most pivotal day in my entire life. I remember thinking "This is IT!" after the intro by Raun, and about the first two pages of the text. Wow! I'm still amazed by the intense power of that experience. It almost even felt like a dream.
I guess that also shows the power of that "4th E"--expression! I'm so happy that you not only worked with Raun in such a loving way, but you also shared it BIG TIME with the rest of the world. Obviously such a significant piece! And I will add that deepened learning to my inner awareness to remember how important it is for all of us to express the wonder of The Son-Rise Program, so others can have the opportunity to experience it's joys too! Including happiness and empowerment for the parents too!!!
Sending LOVE and PEACE to both of you on this very beautiful day of SON-SHINE!
Namaste,
Jeannie
p.s. I did my first "official" SR presentation last week, and it went great! Group Facilitation Training really paid off!!! The organizer of the program (social justice programs monthly at my UU church) even said this was the most moving and passionate program he had ever attended!
Labels: Attitude, Bears, Inspiration
Read more!
posted by (Bears) Barry Neil Kaufman, Founder, Option Inst. at
2:58 PM
0 Comments
Sunday, August 9, 2009
"I Know You Before You Say A Word?"
How is that possible? We listen to what people say (although sometimes not attentively). We gather data from their words. Isn't that how we get to know each other? Yes...and no. We also notice facial expressions, we see body language and movements... we even smell each other. We catalog all the information and form an opinion. Sometimes, wow, we're right on. Sometimes we're really off the mark.
However, there is a group of select people among us who actually don't need to listen to the words or even watch directly what others do...and yet they are often right on what they can know. Who are they? Our amazing, blessed children with autism and other developmental challenges.
A Son-Rise Program Child Facilitator is playing in one of our playrooms (at the Autism Treatment Center of America) with a 6 years old boy. They have begun to establish a relationship...slowly, Jimmy has dared to look and smile at our facilitator who has joined him running around the room and occasionally flapping as if the punctuate each full revolution. The day before, Jimmy was totally exclusive. Today, a relationship in an environment of acceptance and love and celebration has been growing. Another person enters the room...endeavoring to be inconspicuous -- sits in the corner. Jimmy doesn't appear to even look at that person but something starts to happen...Jimmy disengages from our child facilitator and flaps more intensely, then kicks the wall. When the visitor leaves, we noticed an immediate change in Jimmy -- he actually initiates to re-engage and continue building a relationship with our facilitator. Later we find out that the visitor felt very uncomfortable in the room and even judgmental of our joining this little boy "bizarre" behavior
We've seen this many times before. Jimmy knew perhaps the most important thing about the visitor he needed to know -- without they person saying a word or even making any decisive moments. The optimum Son-Rise Program and Son-Rise Program environment is one in which your child is surrounded by people who are comfortable, nonjudgmental and loving. That's one of the keys -- and even if your child was challenged by autism or on the spectrum, wouldn't you want that for him or any child? Do you have u can with any self-scolding. None of us is perfect. Just like our children, we are learning and growing. Do we have to do this perfectly? Actually, do the best you can. The idea is to be aware of our child's human world and do our best to fill it with folks who want to be with us and our children with the Son-Rise Program attitude. Actually, you'd be surprised at what you will noticed when you keep this in mind.
Please know that all of us here at the Autism Treatment Center of America feel excited, honored and blessed to work with you and your awesome children. We're climbing the mountain with you...you are our heroes!!!
In love and celebration of our children, Bears (Barry Neil Kaufman/Co-Founder/Son-Rise Program
However, there is a group of select people among us who actually don't need to listen to the words or even watch directly what others do...and yet they are often right on what they can know. Who are they? Our amazing, blessed children with autism and other developmental challenges.
A Son-Rise Program Child Facilitator is playing in one of our playrooms (at the Autism Treatment Center of America) with a 6 years old boy. They have begun to establish a relationship...slowly, Jimmy has dared to look and smile at our facilitator who has joined him running around the room and occasionally flapping as if the punctuate each full revolution. The day before, Jimmy was totally exclusive. Today, a relationship in an environment of acceptance and love and celebration has been growing. Another person enters the room...endeavoring to be inconspicuous -- sits in the corner. Jimmy doesn't appear to even look at that person but something starts to happen...Jimmy disengages from our child facilitator and flaps more intensely, then kicks the wall. When the visitor leaves, we noticed an immediate change in Jimmy -- he actually initiates to re-engage and continue building a relationship with our facilitator. Later we find out that the visitor felt very uncomfortable in the room and even judgmental of our joining this little boy "bizarre" behavior
We've seen this many times before. Jimmy knew perhaps the most important thing about the visitor he needed to know -- without they person saying a word or even making any decisive moments. The optimum Son-Rise Program and Son-Rise Program environment is one in which your child is surrounded by people who are comfortable, nonjudgmental and loving. That's one of the keys -- and even if your child was challenged by autism or on the spectrum, wouldn't you want that for him or any child? Do you have u can with any self-scolding. None of us is perfect. Just like our children, we are learning and growing. Do we have to do this perfectly? Actually, do the best you can. The idea is to be aware of our child's human world and do our best to fill it with folks who want to be with us and our children with the Son-Rise Program attitude. Actually, you'd be surprised at what you will noticed when you keep this in mind.
Please know that all of us here at the Autism Treatment Center of America feel excited, honored and blessed to work with you and your awesome children. We're climbing the mountain with you...you are our heroes!!!
In love and celebration of our children, Bears (Barry Neil Kaufman/Co-Founder/Son-Rise Program
Labels: Attitude, Bears, Joining
Read more!
posted by (Bears) Barry Neil Kaufman, Founder, Option Inst. at
2:55 PM
0 Comments
Friday, June 19, 2009
Congratulations: Jade Hogan
Congratulations: Jade Hogan
Congratulations: Bryn & William Hogan
Very Personal/Very Awesome: Our granddaughter, Jade (Bryn & William's child), who had been in a 5 yr. Son-Rise Program – and then went to a normal elementary school, graduated last night from the 6th. grade...and was one of 4 students to be honored with the Presidential Award for Outstanding Scholarship. She was so, so delighted. Hurrah for Jade, Bryn & William. Hurrah for the Son-Rise Program.
Love, Bears and Samahria Kaufman
This was my post this morning on Facebook – this was the total amount of space allowed. But what I want to add for all of you and those others you share this with ... is a standing ovation to Bryn and William who directed an intense, profoundly loving, 7-day-a-week (every day) Son-Rise Program for 5 years….with the help of many volunteers (many who had been on the staff at the time – for example, Kate was an extraordinarily huge part of that program as was others). To Bryn and William, we are deeply moved for what you did with your daughter. And her graduation last night was her achievement but it could never have happened without your dedication, enthusiasm, profound level of excellence in what you did with and for Jade for those years (and the dedication shown by her Godmother – amazing Katie Wilde). Read more!
Congratulations: Bryn & William Hogan
Very Personal/Very Awesome: Our granddaughter, Jade (Bryn & William's child), who had been in a 5 yr. Son-Rise Program – and then went to a normal elementary school, graduated last night from the 6th. grade...and was one of 4 students to be honored with the Presidential Award for Outstanding Scholarship. She was so, so delighted. Hurrah for Jade, Bryn & William. Hurrah for the Son-Rise Program.
Love, Bears and Samahria Kaufman
This was my post this morning on Facebook – this was the total amount of space allowed. But what I want to add for all of you and those others you share this with ... is a standing ovation to Bryn and William who directed an intense, profoundly loving, 7-day-a-week (every day) Son-Rise Program for 5 years….with the help of many volunteers (many who had been on the staff at the time – for example, Kate was an extraordinarily huge part of that program as was others). To Bryn and William, we are deeply moved for what you did with your daughter. And her graduation last night was her achievement but it could never have happened without your dedication, enthusiasm, profound level of excellence in what you did with and for Jade for those years (and the dedication shown by her Godmother – amazing Katie Wilde). Read more!
posted by (Bears) Barry Neil Kaufman, Founder, Option Inst. at
10:37 AM
0 Comments
Friday, June 12, 2009
I Can Stop Judging My Son
Hi Bears,
I would like to be your friend. Your have helped me to not judge myself.
Now when I return home from The Son-Rise Program: New Frontiers at the Autism Treatment Center of America this Friday, I can stop judging my son Nathanael. When I feel alone and have no support and no one who I can turn to about Autism I will remember what you said Monday. You had 0% support and created the very first Son-Rise Program. Then gave us your beautiful books and built the amazing place the Autism Treatment Center of America. Thank-You for such a Blessed Gift. I prayed for so long. It's so cool when God answers your prayers. It has changed my life in the best way possible. Now I can understand how Nathanael see's the world because of you and you amazing family. Thank-You for the honor to say I know you and learned from you in person. Since Nathanael loves giving Valentines when we get in the play room we are going to make you another Valentine, and mail it to you. It was so neat when you came over to me and let me share "If you can't believe your partner can change how can you believe you can change." I now believe I can start to begin working on changing my old believes into positive ones to have a better quality of life for Nathanael and our entire family. Thank-You.
Big Hugs
Karen Holmes
Hi, Karen:
You are a "pistol". Lots of life, lots of energy, lot of light in your eyes -- I have so enjoyed having you in the New Frontiers program...and so appreciate the love and kindness you express. Your note above just so touched me. Thank you for your kind words.
Love, Bears
Hi Bears,
I really enjoyed The Son-Rise Program: New Frontiers and would need courage and strength to be ready for Son-Rise Wide Awake. Thank-You for giving me tools to use in Nathaniel's playroom .Inspiring Growth is so valuable having specific goals and using the Developmental Model to focus on the four fundamentals. My Son-Rise Program Manual is so valuable to me that anyone who asks why I hold on to it so tightly my response is this is the way you can get your own. Watching "I Want My Little Boy Back" the manual is my Bible only when you experience The Son-Rise Program Process. Thank-You again and again for making time to work on me for questioning my belief's and to make it so clear your attitude is required to be present with your child in the play room and The Option Process Principles you have made it easy. Well now to get to work in the play room 3 E's.Tell Bryn Thank-You for making is possible for me to finally attend New Frontiers Terry told me it was Bryn's decision that made this week possible for me. It was the Best Memorial week I have ever had.
Love Karen
Labels: Attitude, Bears, Personal Growth
Read more!
posted by (Bears) Barry Neil Kaufman, Founder, Option Inst. at
6:51 AM
0 Comments
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
An Inspiring Letter from a Son-Rise Dad
This letter arrived last week from a Son-Rise Dad whose child went from on-the-spectrum to off-the-spectrum in just 17 weeks. Truly a miracle!
Hi Bears,
Hope you are well. My name is William Dunne and I live in Belfast, Northern Ireland with my wife Shauna and two children: Ronan (7) and Lorcan (3). Lorcan was diagnosed with severe learning difficulties with Autism Spectrum Disorder in November 2008. My wife recently contacted you via Facebook and briefly told of the success of our Son Rise Program® after only being up and running for 17 weeks.
My wife and I were so confused when Lorcan was diagnosed as we did not know where to turn for help, as I'm sure you're aware there was no immediate rush by anyone to offer help for Lorcan. It seemed as though he was just another statistic, another child diagnosed with autism and we were sent home to deal with it.
We heard briefly about The Son Rise Program from Lorcan's social worker although she did also say that she couldn't really recommend it as she herself knew little about it. Shauna and I researched the program and we were really optimistic in what we found and it gave us a sense of hope, false hope some told us but hope is hope. As Raun says, "there is no such thing as false hope!!" We registered on the Autism Treatment Center of America's™ website and eventually on The Son-Rise Program Start-Up, which we attended in London in January. We learned so much from Bryn and William and the other parents there and we came home fully motivated and ready to get our program into full swing.
We got 3 fantastic volunteers to come on board and help us with our program and after a few difficult weeks to start with things began to click into place and we started to see results with Lorcan. When we started the program Lorcan's vocabulary was around 50 words, by the end of April this had increased this to 148 words, with a couple of 2 word sentences also. His attention span improved, his flexibility improved and his overall behaviour was calmer than before.
As my wife mentioned to you on Facebook, Lorcan visited his Paediatrician in April for another assessment and she was very pleased with his overall progress since she last saw him in November 2008, she was so pleased with his progress that she decided to update his diagnosis and remove the ASD from it because she felt that it was no longer an issue.
We gave copies of the letter we got of Lorcan's first diagnosis plus his updated diagnosis to William when we were at The Son-Rise Program New Frontiers so I'm sure you will get a chance to read them and I hope you can share them with other parents to inspire them as we have been inspired.
We, along with our 3 fantastic volunteers Claire, Suzanne and Lisa, went to New Frontiers this month and we found it a great experience. We came back again more motivated than before and we got some great ideas from William and Kate on different themes for our playroom.
As my wife said on Facebook, we have created a website for Lorcan (www.bebo.com/LorcanSonRise) so that members of our friends and family can keep up to date with Lorcan's progress. There are also some pictures on there of Lorcan in the playroom and a blog which we try to update whenever we get the chance. We would be delighted if you could have a look at this.
We would like to thank you for taking time out to read our story and also for giving us the opportunity to help our beautiful son.
We look forward to hearing from you. Lots of love
William & Shauna
Hi Bears,
Hope you are well. My name is William Dunne and I live in Belfast, Northern Ireland with my wife Shauna and two children: Ronan (7) and Lorcan (3). Lorcan was diagnosed with severe learning difficulties with Autism Spectrum Disorder in November 2008. My wife recently contacted you via Facebook and briefly told of the success of our Son Rise Program® after only being up and running for 17 weeks.
My wife and I were so confused when Lorcan was diagnosed as we did not know where to turn for help, as I'm sure you're aware there was no immediate rush by anyone to offer help for Lorcan. It seemed as though he was just another statistic, another child diagnosed with autism and we were sent home to deal with it.
We heard briefly about The Son Rise Program from Lorcan's social worker although she did also say that she couldn't really recommend it as she herself knew little about it. Shauna and I researched the program and we were really optimistic in what we found and it gave us a sense of hope, false hope some told us but hope is hope. As Raun says, "there is no such thing as false hope!!" We registered on the Autism Treatment Center of America's™ website and eventually on The Son-Rise Program Start-Up, which we attended in London in January. We learned so much from Bryn and William and the other parents there and we came home fully motivated and ready to get our program into full swing.
We got 3 fantastic volunteers to come on board and help us with our program and after a few difficult weeks to start with things began to click into place and we started to see results with Lorcan. When we started the program Lorcan's vocabulary was around 50 words, by the end of April this had increased this to 148 words, with a couple of 2 word sentences also. His attention span improved, his flexibility improved and his overall behaviour was calmer than before.
As my wife mentioned to you on Facebook, Lorcan visited his Paediatrician in April for another assessment and she was very pleased with his overall progress since she last saw him in November 2008, she was so pleased with his progress that she decided to update his diagnosis and remove the ASD from it because she felt that it was no longer an issue.
We gave copies of the letter we got of Lorcan's first diagnosis plus his updated diagnosis to William when we were at The Son-Rise Program New Frontiers so I'm sure you will get a chance to read them and I hope you can share them with other parents to inspire them as we have been inspired.
We, along with our 3 fantastic volunteers Claire, Suzanne and Lisa, went to New Frontiers this month and we found it a great experience. We came back again more motivated than before and we got some great ideas from William and Kate on different themes for our playroom.
As my wife said on Facebook, we have created a website for Lorcan (www.bebo.com/LorcanSonRise) so that members of our friends and family can keep up to date with Lorcan's progress. There are also some pictures on there of Lorcan in the playroom and a blog which we try to update whenever we get the chance. We would be delighted if you could have a look at this.
We would like to thank you for taking time out to read our story and also for giving us the opportunity to help our beautiful son.
We look forward to hearing from you. Lots of love
William & Shauna
Labels: Bears, Inspiration
Read more!
posted by Administrator at
1:40 PM
0 Comments
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
"Autism Is Awesome, Mom"
Please read this exchange from my facebook wall -- Wow!!
Yen Kie Ong
Dear Bears, something I want to share with you. Lately, as I've been thinking that I'm a victim of all this craziness, my son who still struggles socially, sat beside me silently, put his arm around me just like that for 5-10 minutes. His choice of consoling me was amazing and really working. And when I lied down on the bed, still feeling low, he just played by himself, checking on me from time to time with his smile. I am blown away. This boy is already living life the Option Process way. He chooses to use his happiness to comfort me. I was bitter and negative at him, and he still smiled at me, no judgment, just total acceptance of me. It's like he's the teacher, he's teaching me in his own way about happiness. And you know what else? When I feel sad, he takes out a book, hands it to me and reads out loud "Happiness is a choice by Barry Neil Kaufman." never my other books, always this book. And he often blurts out "Autism is awesome, mom!", just like that, out of nowhere. Amazing!
Bears Barry Neil Kaufman at 8:23pm
Wow! You son is your teacher...and when he says: "Autism is awesome, mom" -- well, it just takes my breath away. Yen Kie, you are so, so blessed. And we all are bless as well because of your sharing. Hey, and do I ever love his choice of favorite reading material. Smiles and love, Bears
Yen Kie Ong
Dear Bears, something I want to share with you. Lately, as I've been thinking that I'm a victim of all this craziness, my son who still struggles socially, sat beside me silently, put his arm around me just like that for 5-10 minutes. His choice of consoling me was amazing and really working. And when I lied down on the bed, still feeling low, he just played by himself, checking on me from time to time with his smile. I am blown away. This boy is already living life the Option Process way. He chooses to use his happiness to comfort me. I was bitter and negative at him, and he still smiled at me, no judgment, just total acceptance of me. It's like he's the teacher, he's teaching me in his own way about happiness. And you know what else? When I feel sad, he takes out a book, hands it to me and reads out loud "Happiness is a choice by Barry Neil Kaufman." never my other books, always this book. And he often blurts out "Autism is awesome, mom!", just like that, out of nowhere. Amazing!
Bears Barry Neil Kaufman at 8:23pm
Wow! You son is your teacher...and when he says: "Autism is awesome, mom" -- well, it just takes my breath away. Yen Kie, you are so, so blessed. And we all are bless as well because of your sharing. Hey, and do I ever love his choice of favorite reading material. Smiles and love, Bears
Labels: Attitude, Bears, Personal Growth
Read more!
posted by (Bears) Barry Neil Kaufman, Founder, Option Inst. at
5:29 PM
0 Comments
Friday, May 22, 2009
One Mom to Another!
Dear Sweet People:
Two people, among hundreds, talking to each other on my Facebook wall... wow!
Tey Siew Zing:
Hi, many thanks for sending me the Inspirational DVD & Son-Rise Program Catalog which i request through web. Its mean very much to me which i can't explain it by words. Thank you very much. I had received its while i am very blue and i don't know what to do, where to go in order to help my son. I feel like the whole world suddenly change when doctor told me that your son is at mild stage of autism and relatives telling me that your son is abnormal, he need to attend special school instead of normal school. Adding that when normal kindergarten principle rejected him as a student. These ready make me feel down & hopeless. The received of DVD & catalogs make me feel very much better and from that moment, i feel that i am not alone here even far from US also willing to giving me some helps. Thank you for your helping hands. I had follow the giving tips and its ready work. Now my son had better eye contact and he is much more closer to us. Hope can attend the son rise program in Malaysia
Yen kie (Lucy):
Hi Siew Zing, I'm from Indonesia. I, too, just discovered Son-Rise early this year. It's amazing how simple yet effective the Son-Rise principles are. Let's do this together. True, we are very far from the US (I hope to attend all programs too, one day), but for now, we can join the message boards in ATCA, watch the webinars, get phone ... Read More consultations, read Bears' books. Highly recommend "Son-Rise: The Miracle Continues", "A miracle To Believe In", "Happiness Is A Choice" and "To Love Is To Be Happy With", to name a few. My journey has just begun, but I've started to get a better perception and attitude toward my son's autism. Many thanks, Bears. Love you, love Option, love Son Rise!!!
Two people, among hundreds, talking to each other on my Facebook wall... wow!
Tey Siew Zing:
Hi, many thanks for sending me the Inspirational DVD & Son-Rise Program Catalog which i request through web. Its mean very much to me which i can't explain it by words. Thank you very much. I had received its while i am very blue and i don't know what to do, where to go in order to help my son. I feel like the whole world suddenly change when doctor told me that your son is at mild stage of autism and relatives telling me that your son is abnormal, he need to attend special school instead of normal school. Adding that when normal kindergarten principle rejected him as a student. These ready make me feel down & hopeless. The received of DVD & catalogs make me feel very much better and from that moment, i feel that i am not alone here even far from US also willing to giving me some helps. Thank you for your helping hands. I had follow the giving tips and its ready work. Now my son had better eye contact and he is much more closer to us. Hope can attend the son rise program in Malaysia
Yen kie (Lucy):
Hi Siew Zing, I'm from Indonesia. I, too, just discovered Son-Rise early this year. It's amazing how simple yet effective the Son-Rise principles are. Let's do this together. True, we are very far from the US (I hope to attend all programs too, one day), but for now, we can join the message boards in ATCA, watch the webinars, get phone ... Read More consultations, read Bears' books. Highly recommend "Son-Rise: The Miracle Continues", "A miracle To Believe In", "Happiness Is A Choice" and "To Love Is To Be Happy With", to name a few. My journey has just begun, but I've started to get a better perception and attitude toward my son's autism. Many thanks, Bears. Love you, love Option, love Son Rise!!!
Labels: Bears
Read more!
posted by Administrator at
1:23 PM
0 Comments
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Autism is Curable.
The following is an exchange that recently took place on my Facebook page (find me by searching for "Bears Barry Neil Kaufman"). Please read and enjoy!
Autism is curable. Autism is curable. Autism is curable. I always wonder why some people get indigestion when we say what we know. Rather than believe in what can't be done, we can choose to believe in what can be done. Naysayers never change the world. The past doesn't predict the future unless you believe in the past. Autism doesn't have to be a life sentence. The Son-Rise Program for Autism. Love, Bears
Ruthie wrote:
"sounds interesting"
Julie wrote:
"interesting doesn't begin to cover it. it's life changing for your whole family"
Martha wrote:
"There IS a cure for autism! Keep on talking, Bears!"
Lorna wrote:
"If you don't BELIEVE it...you will never take the steps to make it happen. BELIEVE IT."
Anneliese wrote:
"I believe you Bears!!! Yes Autism is curable and the Son Rise program will help me help my son!!!"
Cindy wrote:
"Part of the "cure" (in my opinion) is helping the people who are around autistic people to NOT treat the autistic people like they are "wrong". Once autistic people get to be in a society that accepts their "non neurotypical" personality without judgment or fear - - it helps to encourage them to want to be a part of our world."
Avak wrote:
"we are coming to ATCA in mid June to do Start Up, however what we have learnt from your website, a DVD and a book, we have seen great change in our son Nicholas, YES Autism is curable!!! Remember to LIVE WITH PASSION! PS: The past does not equal the future... xoxoxoxoxoxox"
Isabl wrote:
"thank you for your words it gives people hope and without hop there is nothing and as you said there is a cure just BELIEVE there is one......."
Lynn wrote:
"Whether the terminology is "cured", "re mediated" "indistinguishable from peers" or whatever you want to call it, sonrise and other relationship based therapies are paving the way for parents to really help their children be the best they can be. Furthermore, the term "cure" is simply another belief and can mean whatever one wants it to mean."
Stacey wrote:
"Thank You!!!!"
Jeannie wrote:
"YES! Naysayers never change the world--People who are Forces of Nature change the world!!!"
Joan wrote:
"Yes, Autism is curable .........thank you for writing that..."
Karen wrote:
"I believe. There's no sign of it happening for my boy - YET, - but I still believe it's possible, even if it may not happen for Ruari. I'll never give up on my sons potential."
Dawn wrote:
"Lets celebrate the term 'cure', I for one believe its possible."
Alison wrote:
"Raun is the evidence of a cure - in person. Go meet him - he is the most cured ex-autistic person I know. Try looking in his eyes and say a cure is not possible - you couldn't do it."
Laura wrote:
"I have met too many children COMPLETELY CURED to disagree with this status! Whether my daughter will join them, I do not yet know, but I press on and shoot for the moon, even if I miss, I end up in the stars. It hardly matters anyway... we have our miracle, I had a CONVERSATION tonight with my daughter. The one who would never have meaningful language. YAY"
Ethel wrote:
"The Son-Rise program is so interesting and I have learned so much from Becky. Children are our future and we need to believe in them and not give up whether they have Autism or something else, I love the positive attitude!"
Russell wrote:
"It should also be called 'parents of autistic children will find themselves program'! My son taught me more than I can ever teach him. What a trip!"
Poppy wrote:
"indeed it is!"
Alison wrote:
"I really needed that today after a particularly stressful meeting. Thank you xxx"
Darlene wrote:
"Our belief systems are so important. Bears, if your family believed everything the doctors told you about Raun, he would not have been cured. You believed he could be cured and he was as well as many others that the Son-Rise program has helped. Time well spent, often gives great results. Thanks for investing time in very cool kids and sharing what you know with others."
Dolores wrote:
"Wondering if it would work for the mentally handicapped."
Jackline wrote:
"Autism is curable. Thank you Bears, thank you Samahria. Thank you for taking that big step that allows me to dream, to want, to reach for heights everyone's assuring me are hard to catch. I don't believe them, I may be slow but I'm sure. I will get there. I'll run a Son-Rise program for my Antonio. I know I will in the end. Blessings and keep spreading hope!"
And I wrote:
"THANK YOU all for being so thoughtful and responsive. These kinds of dialogues and discussions are important for all of us -- questioning pessimism and adopting more hopeful optimistic perspectives. Love, Bears"
To submit your own comment just click the button below that says "comments".
Autism is curable. Autism is curable. Autism is curable. I always wonder why some people get indigestion when we say what we know. Rather than believe in what can't be done, we can choose to believe in what can be done. Naysayers never change the world. The past doesn't predict the future unless you believe in the past. Autism doesn't have to be a life sentence. The Son-Rise Program for Autism. Love, Bears
Ruthie wrote:
"sounds interesting"
Julie wrote:
"interesting doesn't begin to cover it. it's life changing for your whole family"
Martha wrote:
"There IS a cure for autism! Keep on talking, Bears!"
Lorna wrote:
"If you don't BELIEVE it...you will never take the steps to make it happen. BELIEVE IT."
Anneliese wrote:
"I believe you Bears!!! Yes Autism is curable and the Son Rise program will help me help my son!!!"
Cindy wrote:
"Part of the "cure" (in my opinion) is helping the people who are around autistic people to NOT treat the autistic people like they are "wrong". Once autistic people get to be in a society that accepts their "non neurotypical" personality without judgment or fear - - it helps to encourage them to want to be a part of our world."
Avak wrote:
"we are coming to ATCA in mid June to do Start Up, however what we have learnt from your website, a DVD and a book, we have seen great change in our son Nicholas, YES Autism is curable!!! Remember to LIVE WITH PASSION! PS: The past does not equal the future... xoxoxoxoxoxox"
Isabl wrote:
"thank you for your words it gives people hope and without hop there is nothing and as you said there is a cure just BELIEVE there is one......."
Lynn wrote:
"Whether the terminology is "cured", "re mediated" "indistinguishable from peers" or whatever you want to call it, sonrise and other relationship based therapies are paving the way for parents to really help their children be the best they can be. Furthermore, the term "cure" is simply another belief and can mean whatever one wants it to mean."
Stacey wrote:
"Thank You!!!!"
Jeannie wrote:
"YES! Naysayers never change the world--People who are Forces of Nature change the world!!!"
Joan wrote:
"Yes, Autism is curable .........thank you for writing that..."
Karen wrote:
"I believe. There's no sign of it happening for my boy - YET, - but I still believe it's possible, even if it may not happen for Ruari. I'll never give up on my sons potential."
Dawn wrote:
"Lets celebrate the term 'cure', I for one believe its possible."
Alison wrote:
"Raun is the evidence of a cure - in person. Go meet him - he is the most cured ex-autistic person I know. Try looking in his eyes and say a cure is not possible - you couldn't do it."
Laura wrote:
"I have met too many children COMPLETELY CURED to disagree with this status! Whether my daughter will join them, I do not yet know, but I press on and shoot for the moon, even if I miss, I end up in the stars. It hardly matters anyway... we have our miracle, I had a CONVERSATION tonight with my daughter. The one who would never have meaningful language. YAY"
Ethel wrote:
"The Son-Rise program is so interesting and I have learned so much from Becky. Children are our future and we need to believe in them and not give up whether they have Autism or something else, I love the positive attitude!"
Russell wrote:
"It should also be called 'parents of autistic children will find themselves program'! My son taught me more than I can ever teach him. What a trip!"
Poppy wrote:
"indeed it is!"
Alison wrote:
"I really needed that today after a particularly stressful meeting. Thank you xxx"
Darlene wrote:
"Our belief systems are so important. Bears, if your family believed everything the doctors told you about Raun, he would not have been cured. You believed he could be cured and he was as well as many others that the Son-Rise program has helped. Time well spent, often gives great results. Thanks for investing time in very cool kids and sharing what you know with others."
Dolores wrote:
"Wondering if it would work for the mentally handicapped."
Jackline wrote:
"Autism is curable. Thank you Bears, thank you Samahria. Thank you for taking that big step that allows me to dream, to want, to reach for heights everyone's assuring me are hard to catch. I don't believe them, I may be slow but I'm sure. I will get there. I'll run a Son-Rise program for my Antonio. I know I will in the end. Blessings and keep spreading hope!"
And I wrote:
"THANK YOU all for being so thoughtful and responsive. These kinds of dialogues and discussions are important for all of us -- questioning pessimism and adopting more hopeful optimistic perspectives. Love, Bears"
To submit your own comment just click the button below that says "comments".
Labels: Bears, Inspiration
Read more!
posted by (Bears) Barry Neil Kaufman, Founder, Option Inst. at
1:28 PM
0 Comments
Monday, May 11, 2009
Big Mountains to Climb
A note from Julie:
OK! ! need some love:
My husband is in the army, he was deployed last year, and has been here & gone quite a bit over the last few months... my daughter (5) is a daddy's girl (so was i) and each time he leaves, she gets very anxious. and the old isms come back. I think she fears he won't come back. Each time he does, he brings them a small gift, so hopefully they'll think about their little goodie rather than that he's gone. we're trying to work through it, but i also have a little guy (3) and I'm spread very thin. It's a difficult balance...
I have only one volunteer right now, and she helps occupy my little guy so i can work with my daughter... so, I'm a little overwhelmed lately.
Please send some love and a few "E's" my way.... i could use them.
A message from Bears:
Julie: Some of us have little mountains to climb; some of us have big ones to climb. The benevolent universe never gives us more than we can handle. So, if you got some big ones, it's because you are "big" inside -- and you can find the way. Yes, sometimes we feel overwhelmed...yes, I understand only one volunteer for your Son-Rise Program is a... Read More huge challenge and your husband, bless him, just visiting from military deployment on limited leaves is surely another big challenge...but that's not about our circumstances; it's about how we embrace them (or resist them). Imagine a universe that we can never quite understand with our small and sweet brains...but, nevertheless, a universe that operates with an intentionality to support us and to love us (even when it doesn't seem so). We could call that trust or faith. So, close you eyes and decide to open them with a new perspective. And then rather than "need" love from the outside, bless yourself with love from the inside. Love, Bears
A message back from Julie:
Thank you again for helping me re-evaluate the situation. sometimes it takes another person's guidance & insight to open your eyes again. I may me in an unfamiliar place, with no family around me, but there is a handful of people I've met through my daughter that care deeply... and I need to appreciate THEM instead of dwell on who's NOT here.... and to be my own force of nature.
Thank you, bears, and thanks again for leaving me in a puddle of tears :)
gratefully,
Julie
OK! ! need some love:
My husband is in the army, he was deployed last year, and has been here & gone quite a bit over the last few months... my daughter (5) is a daddy's girl (so was i) and each time he leaves, she gets very anxious. and the old isms come back. I think she fears he won't come back. Each time he does, he brings them a small gift, so hopefully they'll think about their little goodie rather than that he's gone. we're trying to work through it, but i also have a little guy (3) and I'm spread very thin. It's a difficult balance...
I have only one volunteer right now, and she helps occupy my little guy so i can work with my daughter... so, I'm a little overwhelmed lately.
Please send some love and a few "E's" my way.... i could use them.
A message from Bears:
Julie: Some of us have little mountains to climb; some of us have big ones to climb. The benevolent universe never gives us more than we can handle. So, if you got some big ones, it's because you are "big" inside -- and you can find the way. Yes, sometimes we feel overwhelmed...yes, I understand only one volunteer for your Son-Rise Program is a... Read More huge challenge and your husband, bless him, just visiting from military deployment on limited leaves is surely another big challenge...but that's not about our circumstances; it's about how we embrace them (or resist them). Imagine a universe that we can never quite understand with our small and sweet brains...but, nevertheless, a universe that operates with an intentionality to support us and to love us (even when it doesn't seem so). We could call that trust or faith. So, close you eyes and decide to open them with a new perspective. And then rather than "need" love from the outside, bless yourself with love from the inside. Love, Bears
A message back from Julie:
Thank you again for helping me re-evaluate the situation. sometimes it takes another person's guidance & insight to open your eyes again. I may me in an unfamiliar place, with no family around me, but there is a handful of people I've met through my daughter that care deeply... and I need to appreciate THEM instead of dwell on who's NOT here.... and to be my own force of nature.
Thank you, bears, and thanks again for leaving me in a puddle of tears :)
gratefully,
Julie
Labels: 3Es, Bears, Personal Growth
Read more!
posted by (Bears) Barry Neil Kaufman, Founder, Option Inst. at
10:02 AM
1 Comments
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Autism Is Curable
Autism is curable. Autism is curable. Autism is curable. I always wonder why some people get indigestion when we say what we know. Rather than believe in what can't be done, we can choose to believe in what can be done. Naysayers never change the world. The past doesn't predict the future unless you believe in the past. Autism doesn't have to be a life sentence. The Son-Rise Program® for Autism.
Love, Bears
Love, Bears
Labels: Bears
Read more!
posted by (Bears) Barry Neil Kaufman, Founder, Option Inst. at
9:48 AM
0 Comments
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Meaningful Hope For A New Son-Rise Mom:
I just wrote this to a Son-Rise Program mom on my Facebook wall (check it out if you haven't viewed it). She had written a sweet note to me.
Hi, Amazing Rosemary: There are many who feel it is appropriate, even prudent, to look at a child and say they'll never really improve or overcome their challenges. For those same folks, it seem unreasonable to look at the same child and believe (truly believe) anything is possible. Pessimism appears professional, while have hope and encouraging hope seem irresponsible. However, it is only those folks who believe that anything is possible who will try to reach for the stars. Realistic people often repeat what is (what's realistic to do or think -- which is always based on the past, not the possible future); dreamers create new worlds (airplanes, microwaves, computers, space flights, Google, etc.). You be the dreamer (and then the doer) for your family and your children. Blessings to you and your husband. Autism is not a curse; it can be a blessing but only for those who choose that viewpoint. That's what The Son-Rise Program is about. Love, Bears Kaufman
PS: I am also suggesting for everyone who knows and loves this program to put links to www.autismtreatment.org on their website, Facebook pages, everywhere. Also, mention The Son-Rise Program, even some of the books with pictures and links. The more we talk about this, the more people will learn about possibilities they may have never consider for their children with autism and for themselves
Labels: Attitude, Bears, Inspiration
Read more!
posted by (Bears) Barry Neil Kaufman, Founder, Option Inst. at
2:25 PM
0 Comments
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Autism Larry King Live: The Answer
Larry King Live: Your Show on Autism:
(Sent to Larry King)
Dear Larry: What I noticed on your show about autism repeated this evening, Larry, was folks talking and arguing like we have witnessed for over 30 years. And while people often maintain a level of either dogmatism or confusion or discontent (or all of the above), we (and our staff) have been working successfully with children with autism in a program we originated called The Son-Rise Program. My wife, Samahria, and I created a loving and highly respectful model to join a child's world first, as we did years ago with our once-severly autistic son -- crossing the bridge into his world so he could take our hand and cross the bridge back to ours (he graduated an Ivy Leagure university). Bearing absolutly no traces of his original condition, he is now CEO (and a senior teacher) of the Autism Treatment Center of America in Sheffield, MA (an organization we created over 27 years ago).
I have written many books, one which became an NBC-TV Network movie -- the book, Son-Rise, The Miracle Continues (which details the original nourney with our son and also with other families) has become a beacon for families with autistic children worldwide...and our center for training parents and helping their children with autism has provided programs for thousands of people from over 78 countries. We don't ask the question: can autism be cured? We help parents do it.
There is a famous Chinese proverb: "The people who say it can't be done shouldn't interrupt the people who are doing it."
Most sincerely, Barry Neil Kaufman,
Co-Founder/Co-Director, Autism Treatment Center of America. http://www.autismtreatment.org/, http://www.barryneilkaufman.com/
(Sent to Larry King)
Dear Larry: What I noticed on your show about autism repeated this evening, Larry, was folks talking and arguing like we have witnessed for over 30 years. And while people often maintain a level of either dogmatism or confusion or discontent (or all of the above), we (and our staff) have been working successfully with children with autism in a program we originated called The Son-Rise Program. My wife, Samahria, and I created a loving and highly respectful model to join a child's world first, as we did years ago with our once-severly autistic son -- crossing the bridge into his world so he could take our hand and cross the bridge back to ours (he graduated an Ivy Leagure university). Bearing absolutly no traces of his original condition, he is now CEO (and a senior teacher) of the Autism Treatment Center of America in Sheffield, MA (an organization we created over 27 years ago).
I have written many books, one which became an NBC-TV Network movie -- the book, Son-Rise, The Miracle Continues (which details the original nourney with our son and also with other families) has become a beacon for families with autistic children worldwide...and our center for training parents and helping their children with autism has provided programs for thousands of people from over 78 countries. We don't ask the question: can autism be cured? We help parents do it.
There is a famous Chinese proverb: "The people who say it can't be done shouldn't interrupt the people who are doing it."
Most sincerely, Barry Neil Kaufman,
Co-Founder/Co-Director, Autism Treatment Center of America. http://www.autismtreatment.org/, http://www.barryneilkaufman.com/
Labels: Bears
Read more!
posted by (Bears) Barry Neil Kaufman, Founder, Option Inst. at
8:54 PM
0 Comments
Copyright 1998-2012. The Option Institute & Fellowship. All rights reserved.
A division of The Option Institute. A nonprofit, federally tax-exempt, charitable organization.