The Unhappiness Compensation Cycle!
From William: We use many different wonderful ways of looking after ourselves, especially when it comes to ensuring that we stay emotionally feeling good. One particular way that I want to share with you is what I call the Unhappiness Compensation Cycle. It goes something like this:
We use many different wonderful ways of looking after ourselves, especially when it comes to ensuring that we stay emotionally feeling good. One particular way that I want to share with you is what I call the Unhappiness Compensation Approach. It goes something like this:
I feel uncomfortable in one area of my life, which I don't want to look at or pay attention to because if I do I will feel even more uncomfortable. (I'm discomfort-phobic!!)
I can't totally shake this uncomfortable feeling (it keeps following me around – even though I do my best to ignore it!!).
I go in search of something that I know will result in me giving myself a good feeling (i.e. eating, drinking, shopping, particular actions that will get me praise and love from others, etc.) - I go into unhappiness compensation mode!
The drawback of compensating in this way for an uncomfortable feeling is that after I have done any of these "feel good things" I am still left with my unhappiness. Most people do more and more of the "feel good things" to the point of personal detriment (i.e. over eating, over drinking, etc.) They then get into a cycle of compensating for this nagging, won't-go-away unhappy feeling by doing these "feel good things" over and over again - and in the end they end up harming themselves.
So, what's the solution? The solution is to look directly at what you are feeling unhappy about - to understand it - and then change the belief that fuels it.
This is exactly what a mother did recently during the Son-Rise Program Intensive. She was working with her child - but she pushed him to play her game, needing it to happen, and did not see that he was not connected or interested. She needed the interaction so that she would get praised and loved for making it happen. She needed the love because she was feeling upset in another area of her family life. She was trying to feel good in the only way she knew how - to do something else to compensate for not feeling good in that other area of her life.
After, during our feedback session, she chose to work out the underlying unhappiness in her family life that fueled her need and pushiness. As I dialogued her, she cried and talked about the situation and eventually came to a place of insight and then a place of peace. It was wonderful to see the change in her expression as she gave herself this feeling. She was brave to have looked at herself so honestly with a willingness to know who she was.
One of the beauties of the Son-Rise Program is that we come to understand how we can be happier through changing our beliefs (using the Option Process Dialogue) versus ignoring and avoiding our discomfort and creating a harmful compensation cycle!
Today - dare to look at a discomfort. Ask yourself a question or two (i.e. How do I feel? Why am I feeling this way? etc.) Dare to understand yourself a little more and learn to enjoy your life without having to compensate.
Love and smiles,
William
We use many different wonderful ways of looking after ourselves, especially when it comes to ensuring that we stay emotionally feeling good. One particular way that I want to share with you is what I call the Unhappiness Compensation Approach. It goes something like this:
I feel uncomfortable in one area of my life, which I don't want to look at or pay attention to because if I do I will feel even more uncomfortable. (I'm discomfort-phobic!!)
I can't totally shake this uncomfortable feeling (it keeps following me around – even though I do my best to ignore it!!).
I go in search of something that I know will result in me giving myself a good feeling (i.e. eating, drinking, shopping, particular actions that will get me praise and love from others, etc.) - I go into unhappiness compensation mode!
The drawback of compensating in this way for an uncomfortable feeling is that after I have done any of these "feel good things" I am still left with my unhappiness. Most people do more and more of the "feel good things" to the point of personal detriment (i.e. over eating, over drinking, etc.) They then get into a cycle of compensating for this nagging, won't-go-away unhappy feeling by doing these "feel good things" over and over again - and in the end they end up harming themselves.
So, what's the solution? The solution is to look directly at what you are feeling unhappy about - to understand it - and then change the belief that fuels it.
This is exactly what a mother did recently during the Son-Rise Program Intensive. She was working with her child - but she pushed him to play her game, needing it to happen, and did not see that he was not connected or interested. She needed the interaction so that she would get praised and loved for making it happen. She needed the love because she was feeling upset in another area of her family life. She was trying to feel good in the only way she knew how - to do something else to compensate for not feeling good in that other area of her life.
After, during our feedback session, she chose to work out the underlying unhappiness in her family life that fueled her need and pushiness. As I dialogued her, she cried and talked about the situation and eventually came to a place of insight and then a place of peace. It was wonderful to see the change in her expression as she gave herself this feeling. She was brave to have looked at herself so honestly with a willingness to know who she was.
One of the beauties of the Son-Rise Program is that we come to understand how we can be happier through changing our beliefs (using the Option Process Dialogue) versus ignoring and avoiding our discomfort and creating a harmful compensation cycle!
Today - dare to look at a discomfort. Ask yourself a question or two (i.e. How do I feel? Why am I feeling this way? etc.) Dare to understand yourself a little more and learn to enjoy your life without having to compensate.
Love and smiles,
William
Labels: Attitude, Inspiration, Personal Growth, Son-Rise Program Parents, William
Read more!
posted by William Hogan, Senior Son-Rise Program Teacher at
1:49 PM
0 Comments
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Toileting - Take 7
From Becky:It's a gradual process
The first step to toilet training your child is to get them used to what you are working on. It's rare that we as people immediately start performing a new skill perfectly, we need warm up time to study and familiarize oursleves with the material before we get it right.
Let's make the first focus be promoting how fun the toilet is, talking about the toilet, celebrating all of our child's interest in toileting and modelling how to use and why to use the toilet to them before we actually ask them to put their pee and poop in it.
Our children like things to be familiar and predictable. By making the toilet a focus without actually inviting them onto it first, our children get to grow accustomed to what we are introducing to them, therefore when it comes to using the toilet, they already know and trust what it's all about.
It can be tempting to "Push" the challenge with our children when we are hungry for them to develop new skills. If you take your time and have fun along the way, both you and your child will be more motivated to keep trying.
The first step to toilet training your child is to get them used to what you are working on. It's rare that we as people immediately start performing a new skill perfectly, we need warm up time to study and familiarize oursleves with the material before we get it right.
Let's make the first focus be promoting how fun the toilet is, talking about the toilet, celebrating all of our child's interest in toileting and modelling how to use and why to use the toilet to them before we actually ask them to put their pee and poop in it.
Our children like things to be familiar and predictable. By making the toilet a focus without actually inviting them onto it first, our children get to grow accustomed to what we are introducing to them, therefore when it comes to using the toilet, they already know and trust what it's all about.
It can be tempting to "Push" the challenge with our children when we are hungry for them to develop new skills. If you take your time and have fun along the way, both you and your child will be more motivated to keep trying.
Labels: Inspiration, Self-Help Skills, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
2:13 PM
0 Comments
Assumption - Assumption, What's Your Function?
From Katrina:
Hello all you amazing people,
I'd like to talk a little bit about assumptions of what your child can and can't do. Here’s the thing...the possibilities are endless, so why limit your child? Just because you've never seen your child do it before, does not mean he/she cannot do it today!
This week we have an amazing Man here at our Son Rise Program Intensive. He is 33 years old, he's an adult and he would be the first to tell you that! I wanted to do something more adult with him so I had our amazing Option Institute property department (Bob and Ashton - you guys are AWESOME!) put together some materials so this autistic man and I could build our own stool. (If you are interested they also tell me you can buy Do-it-yourself kits from hobby shops). The family had never before seen their son build anything, they thought he would cringe at the sound of a hammer, and would not know what to do with a screwdriver.
Even though he had never done anything like it in his life, my friend and I built this stool in its entirety. He was putting together wood, hammering nails, grabbing the screws and turning them before I had the chance. Any time he said he couldn't do something, I gave him another opportunity and he did it!!! Even I was impressed with how quickly we put that piece of art together.
After my session I took out the stool to ensure that it was sturdy and nothing was sticking out to far. When I brought it back in, my friend looked at it, said "It's done nicely" and immediately sat on it. It has been his stool of preference ever since. What a charmer!
Next time you think your child can’t do something, think again!
Wishing you a week of possibilities,
Katrina
Hello all you amazing people,
I'd like to talk a little bit about assumptions of what your child can and can't do. Here’s the thing...the possibilities are endless, so why limit your child? Just because you've never seen your child do it before, does not mean he/she cannot do it today!
This week we have an amazing Man here at our Son Rise Program Intensive. He is 33 years old, he's an adult and he would be the first to tell you that! I wanted to do something more adult with him so I had our amazing Option Institute property department (Bob and Ashton - you guys are AWESOME!) put together some materials so this autistic man and I could build our own stool. (If you are interested they also tell me you can buy Do-it-yourself kits from hobby shops). The family had never before seen their son build anything, they thought he would cringe at the sound of a hammer, and would not know what to do with a screwdriver.
Even though he had never done anything like it in his life, my friend and I built this stool in its entirety. He was putting together wood, hammering nails, grabbing the screws and turning them before I had the chance. Any time he said he couldn't do something, I gave him another opportunity and he did it!!! Even I was impressed with how quickly we put that piece of art together.
After my session I took out the stool to ensure that it was sturdy and nothing was sticking out to far. When I brought it back in, my friend looked at it, said "It's done nicely" and immediately sat on it. It has been his stool of preference ever since. What a charmer!
Next time you think your child can’t do something, think again!
Wishing you a week of possibilities,
Katrina
Labels: Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Katrina at
2:10 PM
0 Comments
Friday, February 26, 2010
From Becky: Potty Training Take 6
Being a Child Facilitator and a Teacher in The Son-Rise Program, there are many skills that I have acquired over the years. One of those skills is.......
Persistence! To work on any skill with our children we need to be persistent and keep trying. If we gave up after the the first attempt of helping our child use the toilet then they would never get the opportunity to really work on their area of challenge. Here are some ways to think when toilet training your child that will help you to be persistent.
1) I beleive that my child will want to use the toilet. Our children might not immediately show signs of wanting to use the toilet, but holding this belief will inspire them to keep trying because you believe in them. If you don't truly get behind the idea that your child has the ability to be successful in this then you won't put much effort into it and therefore your child will follow suite. You are your child's biggest resource and they will take on the beliefs that you have. What we ultimately believe, comes to pass eventually so the belief in itself will help you hugely.
2) I am not attached (needing) them to use the toilet. If there is a "Push" or a "Need" for your child to become toilet trained then your they will pick up on that and resist against it. Be prepared to lovingly persist without your success or happiness being dependant upon whether they pee/poo in the potty or not.
3) Toilet Training is fun! The minute that you stop being excited about helping your child get intersted in the toilet, the minute your child will stop being intersted.
4) "No means no for now, but not forever" When your child pulls away from the toilet or tells you or shows you that they are not interested right now. It doesn't mean that all has failed and they mean no forever, be excited to give them control and then try again later.
5) Just because they haven't done it yet, it doesn't mean that they won't want to do it now or in the future. If we always make our decisions based on past experiences then we will never try new things. If we want our children to stretch themselves and do new things then we actually need to think differently, let's be the pioneers of new things to inspire our children.
Some children will toilet train in two weeks, and some will take two years, but in either circumstance, persistence is key!
Have fun being persistent.
Persistence! To work on any skill with our children we need to be persistent and keep trying. If we gave up after the the first attempt of helping our child use the toilet then they would never get the opportunity to really work on their area of challenge. Here are some ways to think when toilet training your child that will help you to be persistent.
1) I beleive that my child will want to use the toilet. Our children might not immediately show signs of wanting to use the toilet, but holding this belief will inspire them to keep trying because you believe in them. If you don't truly get behind the idea that your child has the ability to be successful in this then you won't put much effort into it and therefore your child will follow suite. You are your child's biggest resource and they will take on the beliefs that you have. What we ultimately believe, comes to pass eventually so the belief in itself will help you hugely.
2) I am not attached (needing) them to use the toilet. If there is a "Push" or a "Need" for your child to become toilet trained then your they will pick up on that and resist against it. Be prepared to lovingly persist without your success or happiness being dependant upon whether they pee/poo in the potty or not.
3) Toilet Training is fun! The minute that you stop being excited about helping your child get intersted in the toilet, the minute your child will stop being intersted.
4) "No means no for now, but not forever" When your child pulls away from the toilet or tells you or shows you that they are not interested right now. It doesn't mean that all has failed and they mean no forever, be excited to give them control and then try again later.
5) Just because they haven't done it yet, it doesn't mean that they won't want to do it now or in the future. If we always make our decisions based on past experiences then we will never try new things. If we want our children to stretch themselves and do new things then we actually need to think differently, let's be the pioneers of new things to inspire our children.
Some children will toilet train in two weeks, and some will take two years, but in either circumstance, persistence is key!
Have fun being persistent.
Labels: Inspiration, Self-Help Skills, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
6:00 AM
0 Comments
Thursday, February 25, 2010
From Jack: Inspirational Thoughts
Hey guys
Often when people come here to the Autism Treatment Center of America, they are amazed by the level of energy, excitement and enthusiasm of our staff here. They ask how we are able to sustain such passion in our work, using The Son-Rise Program to help recover children and adults with autism. Well - we teach here that it is a CHOICE. We can choose, in any moment, to have a wonderful experience when working with autistic children - and from the joy we create from that experience comes our excitement and energy.
One thing that I find so helpful in guiding myself towards seeing the perfection and beauty is to keep a folder full of inspirational quotes and poems: things I can read every day to remind myself of the healing power of love, the beauty of the present moment, the gift of a challenge - all attitudinal thoughts that are so useful when in the Son-Rise Program playroom!
Today, I read this, and felt it was so applicable to my job here as a Child Facilitator:
The healer knows we heal no one, we cure no one;
to attempt the cure denies the truth:
disharmony sown in spirit reaps imbalance in the flesh.
To regain the point of balance only open your heart,
merely offer your life;
allow the love to heal, allow the weak to grow;
say ‘I am the healer’, you stay out of the flow.
Why not make your own folder of inspirational writings, and read one piece before each of your sessions. Challenge yourself to go even deeper into your appreciation of your child and your life.
With love,
Jack
Often when people come here to the Autism Treatment Center of America, they are amazed by the level of energy, excitement and enthusiasm of our staff here. They ask how we are able to sustain such passion in our work, using The Son-Rise Program to help recover children and adults with autism. Well - we teach here that it is a CHOICE. We can choose, in any moment, to have a wonderful experience when working with autistic children - and from the joy we create from that experience comes our excitement and energy.
One thing that I find so helpful in guiding myself towards seeing the perfection and beauty is to keep a folder full of inspirational quotes and poems: things I can read every day to remind myself of the healing power of love, the beauty of the present moment, the gift of a challenge - all attitudinal thoughts that are so useful when in the Son-Rise Program playroom!
Today, I read this, and felt it was so applicable to my job here as a Child Facilitator:
The healer knows we heal no one, we cure no one;
to attempt the cure denies the truth:
disharmony sown in spirit reaps imbalance in the flesh.
To regain the point of balance only open your heart,
merely offer your life;
allow the love to heal, allow the weak to grow;
say ‘I am the healer’, you stay out of the flow.
Why not make your own folder of inspirational writings, and read one piece before each of your sessions. Challenge yourself to go even deeper into your appreciation of your child and your life.
With love,
Jack
Labels: Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Jack at
11:30 AM
0 Comments
Monday, February 22, 2010
Are you under stimulating your child?
From Kate Wilde:Are you under stimulating your child? Ooh what a fun questions to ask yourself, especially if you often ask yourself, "Will my child be able to do this?" or make the statement - "My child will never do that."
Here at the Autism Treatment Center of America we see that children on the Autism spectrum challenge is not the level of their intelligence, nor their ability to understand what is spoken to them, but the ability to respond to what is being asked of them. Given that, if you have a nine year old, are you still asking them the same questions you did when they were five. If you have 12 year old are you still singing nursery rhymes to them. Are you reading the same book to your 15 year old?
Your 9 year old is still a nine year old, they have had nine years of experience, inside, maybe their tastes and mental development has grown as much as their physical appearance. If this is the case then we want to introduce to our children activities and ideas that are closer to their age group and stimulating to their minds.
How about taking in the newspaper and reading them a current article. Drop the nursery rhymes and sing some old rock songs, or a funk tunes, whatever music you like. Find an rare and tropical animal to teach them about, bring in photos and music of a different time or culture to discuss. When thinking about what you could offer to your child, think about something that you enjoy but have never thought to share with them.
Much love to you all
Kate
Here at the Autism Treatment Center of America we see that children on the Autism spectrum challenge is not the level of their intelligence, nor their ability to understand what is spoken to them, but the ability to respond to what is being asked of them. Given that, if you have a nine year old, are you still asking them the same questions you did when they were five. If you have 12 year old are you still singing nursery rhymes to them. Are you reading the same book to your 15 year old?
Your 9 year old is still a nine year old, they have had nine years of experience, inside, maybe their tastes and mental development has grown as much as their physical appearance. If this is the case then we want to introduce to our children activities and ideas that are closer to their age group and stimulating to their minds.
How about taking in the newspaper and reading them a current article. Drop the nursery rhymes and sing some old rock songs, or a funk tunes, whatever music you like. Find an rare and tropical animal to teach them about, bring in photos and music of a different time or culture to discuss. When thinking about what you could offer to your child, think about something that you enjoy but have never thought to share with them.
Much love to you all
Kate
Labels: Fun and Games, Inspiration, Kate
Read more!
posted by Kate Wilde at
12:43 PM
0 Comments
Sunday, February 21, 2010
From Becky: Toilet Training take 4
Give your child control!
Here at The Autism Treatment Center of America, giving our special children as much control as possible is always on the main menu.
This is because The Son-Rise Program inpires our children to actually want to do things for themselves (like using the toilet in this example).
Giving our children control make us both attractive to be with and gives our children an opportunity to choose to develop self help skills such as toilet training. That means that whenever your child says "No", pulls away or indicates that they are not interested in the toilet then we will honor that and give them an immediate respect to their comunication.
Every time we honor our child's telling us or showing us "No", we are a step closer to them saying "Yes!" Giving control in an exaggerated way helps our children to become much more flexible therefore allowing them to open themselves up to new experiences.
In a world where things can be unpredictable we can be a constant source of solid predictability where no means no! When you honor your child's "No", it doesn't mean that you are giving up or dropping your focus of offering the toilet, it simply means that in that moment, your child is not open to it, that is not to say that in 10 minutes our child may be different.
Have fun!
Here at The Autism Treatment Center of America, giving our special children as much control as possible is always on the main menu.
This is because The Son-Rise Program inpires our children to actually want to do things for themselves (like using the toilet in this example).
Giving our children control make us both attractive to be with and gives our children an opportunity to choose to develop self help skills such as toilet training. That means that whenever your child says "No", pulls away or indicates that they are not interested in the toilet then we will honor that and give them an immediate respect to their comunication.
Every time we honor our child's telling us or showing us "No", we are a step closer to them saying "Yes!" Giving control in an exaggerated way helps our children to become much more flexible therefore allowing them to open themselves up to new experiences.
In a world where things can be unpredictable we can be a constant source of solid predictability where no means no! When you honor your child's "No", it doesn't mean that you are giving up or dropping your focus of offering the toilet, it simply means that in that moment, your child is not open to it, that is not to say that in 10 minutes our child may be different.
Have fun!
Labels: Giving Control, Inspiration, Self-Help Skills, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
6:26 PM
0 Comments
Monday, February 15, 2010
The Journey
From Kate Wilde: Over the last 8 months or so I have been learning Argentinian Tango. For those of you who know me well this may make you smile, as I have absolutely no skill set, talent or body awareness when it comes to dancing, or come to think about it just moving gracefully in the world.
One of the many reasons I started to learn Tango was to explore the idea that we can learn anything if we practise and have a great attitude. That it is all about our attitude and our actions, not innate talent. The attitude I am talking about is very specific.
1. To believe that it is possible for me to become not just a good tango dancer, but a great one.
2.To be completely happy when I do not get it, or cannot understand a step or movement
4.To believe that wherever I am in my learning is the most perfect place to be.
5.Never entertain the thought of comparing myself unfavourable to another.
This is what I teach everyday to my students at The Autism Treatment Center of America. By students I mean the wonderful individuals I am teaching to become Son-Rise Program child facilitators and Son-Rise Program Teachers. They often times will tell me that they are not an, "outgoing person", or a "creative person", or they can't "sing", or they are not "eloquent" and so forth.
Last night I had class with my teacher, who has a great and wonderful "Son-Rise Program' attitude, she is non-judgmental, loving, celebratory, breaks things down, is creative in finding ways to help me, and always answers my many, and sometimes repetitive questions. She said to me, 'you must only think about the journey of the step, not the end result", sound familiar to you? A Son-Rise Program attitude that I had not been applying to my Tango steps.
When you find yourself thinking, "oh I can't to that" or "I am not that kind of person" think again:
Who we are is a direct result of our attitude and our actions.
Love to you on your journey with your children!!
Kate
One of the many reasons I started to learn Tango was to explore the idea that we can learn anything if we practise and have a great attitude. That it is all about our attitude and our actions, not innate talent. The attitude I am talking about is very specific.
1. To believe that it is possible for me to become not just a good tango dancer, but a great one.
2.To be completely happy when I do not get it, or cannot understand a step or movement
4.To believe that wherever I am in my learning is the most perfect place to be.
5.Never entertain the thought of comparing myself unfavourable to another.
This is what I teach everyday to my students at The Autism Treatment Center of America. By students I mean the wonderful individuals I am teaching to become Son-Rise Program child facilitators and Son-Rise Program Teachers. They often times will tell me that they are not an, "outgoing person", or a "creative person", or they can't "sing", or they are not "eloquent" and so forth.
Last night I had class with my teacher, who has a great and wonderful "Son-Rise Program' attitude, she is non-judgmental, loving, celebratory, breaks things down, is creative in finding ways to help me, and always answers my many, and sometimes repetitive questions. She said to me, 'you must only think about the journey of the step, not the end result", sound familiar to you? A Son-Rise Program attitude that I had not been applying to my Tango steps.
When you find yourself thinking, "oh I can't to that" or "I am not that kind of person" think again:
Who we are is a direct result of our attitude and our actions.
Love to you on your journey with your children!!
Kate
Labels: Attitude, Inspiration, Kate
Read more!
posted by Kate Wilde at
6:22 AM
0 Comments
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
From Becky: Potty Training Take Two!
Hi,
Here are some more ideas that we use at The Autism Treatment Center of America to help our children to want to use the toilet.
2) Look for signs! Observe your child and see if they are giving you any clues as to when they are about to go to the toilet.
Do they get quiet and go into the corner? Do they hide? Do they fidget? Do they start to touch themselves? Some of our special children have sensitive guts and may press their belly or roll on their stomachs on a therapy ball when they have a poo coming. Pay attention to how many fluids they have drunk to know when they are due to pee.
The more we can recognise the signs our children are giving us when they are about to pee or poop, the more we will know they are ready for us to introduce the toilet to them.
The Son-Rise Program playroom is the perfect place to do this because it's a low distraction environment where you can be present with your child and really hone in on their cues. Also, if you have a linoleum style flooring that is easy to clean, it isn't a big deal if they have a few accidents along the way.
When you see the signs from your child, it's time to explain that it looks like they have a pee or poop coming. Excitedly encourage them to use the toilet. Whether your child is verbal or not yet verbal, our children still have receptive language, the explanations will educate them and help you to become predictable and easy to relate to.
Call (413)229-2100 to book a 25 minute toilet training consultation with one of our staff. We will give you specific techniques to use that are individual to your child.
More coming soon........
Here are some more ideas that we use at The Autism Treatment Center of America to help our children to want to use the toilet.
2) Look for signs! Observe your child and see if they are giving you any clues as to when they are about to go to the toilet.
Do they get quiet and go into the corner? Do they hide? Do they fidget? Do they start to touch themselves? Some of our special children have sensitive guts and may press their belly or roll on their stomachs on a therapy ball when they have a poo coming. Pay attention to how many fluids they have drunk to know when they are due to pee.
The more we can recognise the signs our children are giving us when they are about to pee or poop, the more we will know they are ready for us to introduce the toilet to them.
The Son-Rise Program playroom is the perfect place to do this because it's a low distraction environment where you can be present with your child and really hone in on their cues. Also, if you have a linoleum style flooring that is easy to clean, it isn't a big deal if they have a few accidents along the way.
When you see the signs from your child, it's time to explain that it looks like they have a pee or poop coming. Excitedly encourage them to use the toilet. Whether your child is verbal or not yet verbal, our children still have receptive language, the explanations will educate them and help you to become predictable and easy to relate to.
Call (413)229-2100 to book a 25 minute toilet training consultation with one of our staff. We will give you specific techniques to use that are individual to your child.
More coming soon........
Labels: Inspiration, Self-Help Skills, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
7:14 AM
0 Comments
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
From Becky: Potty Fun!
Hi All,
My next series of blogs are going to be about the toilet!!! Yeah for the toilet. Here at The Autism Treatment Center of America we love the toilet, we are excited about the toilet and we have many many ideas that can help your child get interested in the toilet, be motivated to sit on it, and to use it.
1) Get excited about pee and poop! How do we expect our children to be interested using the toilet if we, ourselves are making the pee and poop experience out to be a negative one.
I used to babysit for a Neuro-Typical 2 year old who's parents would make a big face as they would change his diaper and say "Peeeeeeeewww", they would refer to it as a "Stinky diaper" and then as a result, he wouldn't ever want to get his diaper changed and would be controlling around it.
Let's let our children know that peeing and pooping is a natural thing that out body does, it's helpful to us, useful and fun! Our bodies feel better when we do it and everybody does it. If you hide the fact that you do it too from them, then they will never learn how to manage it themselves.
When you need to go for a pee or a poop, tell them what's happening for you, do it in front of them and then give yourself a big cheer for putting it in the toilet. This is great to model with your other children and your partners. Give eachother a high five when you poop in the potty, let eachother flush the toilet after you have done a pee. We need to exaggerate things for our special children so that they take notice.
Let's get pee and poop, out of the closet!
More coming soon..........
My next series of blogs are going to be about the toilet!!! Yeah for the toilet. Here at The Autism Treatment Center of America we love the toilet, we are excited about the toilet and we have many many ideas that can help your child get interested in the toilet, be motivated to sit on it, and to use it.
1) Get excited about pee and poop! How do we expect our children to be interested using the toilet if we, ourselves are making the pee and poop experience out to be a negative one.
I used to babysit for a Neuro-Typical 2 year old who's parents would make a big face as they would change his diaper and say "Peeeeeeeewww", they would refer to it as a "Stinky diaper" and then as a result, he wouldn't ever want to get his diaper changed and would be controlling around it.
Let's let our children know that peeing and pooping is a natural thing that out body does, it's helpful to us, useful and fun! Our bodies feel better when we do it and everybody does it. If you hide the fact that you do it too from them, then they will never learn how to manage it themselves.
When you need to go for a pee or a poop, tell them what's happening for you, do it in front of them and then give yourself a big cheer for putting it in the toilet. This is great to model with your other children and your partners. Give eachother a high five when you poop in the potty, let eachother flush the toilet after you have done a pee. We need to exaggerate things for our special children so that they take notice.
Let's get pee and poop, out of the closet!
More coming soon..........
Labels: Attitude, Inspiration, Self-Help Skills, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
1:33 PM
2 Comments
Jack's Playroom Stories #1
Howdy friends!
I've decided to start writing weekly stories, relating my favourite playroom moments from the week from The Son-Rise Program(R) Intensive here at the Autism Treatment Center of America. As a Child Facilitator for children with Autism and Asperger's syndrome, I have so many moment, every week, that just blow me away. Here is something special from this week:
We are working with the sweetest little 4 year old girl. She has dark brown eyes, cute braided hair and loves squeezes, rubs, tickles and singing. I was watching one of my colleagues playing with this wonderful girl in our playroom, trying to help her say the word "Squeeze". After playfully giving her squeezes for nearly 5 minutes, just playing, having fun and modeling the joy of social interaction, the Child Facilitator explained to this girl the power of her language and lovingly encouraged her to say "Squeeze". There was a long pause - maybe 40 seconds - and then this amazing little girl said "Sss"! Not just once, but three times!
Up until this point, her parents had NEVER heard her use this sound. It was so beautiful and inspiring to be there at the moment that this brave little girl decided to stretch her boundaries, challenge herself, try something new. There is constant inspiration to find in our autistic children, if we choose to see it.
Have fun, my friends!
Love Jack
I've decided to start writing weekly stories, relating my favourite playroom moments from the week from The Son-Rise Program(R) Intensive here at the Autism Treatment Center of America. As a Child Facilitator for children with Autism and Asperger's syndrome, I have so many moment, every week, that just blow me away. Here is something special from this week:
We are working with the sweetest little 4 year old girl. She has dark brown eyes, cute braided hair and loves squeezes, rubs, tickles and singing. I was watching one of my colleagues playing with this wonderful girl in our playroom, trying to help her say the word "Squeeze". After playfully giving her squeezes for nearly 5 minutes, just playing, having fun and modeling the joy of social interaction, the Child Facilitator explained to this girl the power of her language and lovingly encouraged her to say "Squeeze". There was a long pause - maybe 40 seconds - and then this amazing little girl said "Sss"! Not just once, but three times!
Up until this point, her parents had NEVER heard her use this sound. It was so beautiful and inspiring to be there at the moment that this brave little girl decided to stretch her boundaries, challenge herself, try something new. There is constant inspiration to find in our autistic children, if we choose to see it.
Have fun, my friends!
Love Jack
Labels: Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Jack at
12:24 PM
0 Comments
Thursday, January 28, 2010
From Becky: What is my purpose?
This is a question that has come up in discussions recently when working with wonderful parents and volunteers in The Son-Rise Program.
Is my purpose in the playroom to position for eye contact? To request language? To catch every green light?, to join at the perfect distance?
Or.........
is it to build a loving relationship with my child?, to be as accepting to myself and my child as possible? To be comfortable and present? To relax and have a good time?
The list goes on.........
Sometimes we can get so caught up in the technical side of things that we forget to focus on the attitude.
The very core of the The Son-Rise Program is the attitude! When I am in the attitude and see that as my purpose when working with children and parents, I have unstop able creativity and ideas flowing out of my pores.
Ask yourself, what is my purpose? the next time you go to work with your child. Re-define it for yourself, when you choose to have a purpose that is attitudinal versus technical, the techniques and your creativity will endlessly pore from you because you will be relaxed and present and therefore see what your child is doing with new eyes.
Is my purpose in the playroom to position for eye contact? To request language? To catch every green light?, to join at the perfect distance?
Or.........
is it to build a loving relationship with my child?, to be as accepting to myself and my child as possible? To be comfortable and present? To relax and have a good time?
The list goes on.........
Sometimes we can get so caught up in the technical side of things that we forget to focus on the attitude.
The very core of the The Son-Rise Program is the attitude! When I am in the attitude and see that as my purpose when working with children and parents, I have unstop able creativity and ideas flowing out of my pores.
Ask yourself, what is my purpose? the next time you go to work with your child. Re-define it for yourself, when you choose to have a purpose that is attitudinal versus technical, the techniques and your creativity will endlessly pore from you because you will be relaxed and present and therefore see what your child is doing with new eyes.
Labels: Attitude, Inspiration, Personal Growth, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
6:52 AM
0 Comments
Monday, January 25, 2010
Day One: Live from the UK Son-Rise Program Start-Up
From Bryn: I stood in front of 172 individuals. They were from countries such as the Czech Republic, Nigeria, Croatia, Australia, Bosnia and others. They practiced different religions, spoke different languages and were every shade of color. At a glance, they looked as though they they were extremely different from one another. Yet, they had more in common with each other than they did with most of their neighbors.
They represented children ranging in age from 2-33 years. These children had diagnosis such as Autism, Epilepsy, Sensory Integration Disorder, Aspergers Syndrome, Global Developmental Delay and others. They had come to attend The Son-Rise Program Start-Up because they wanted help for their children and most of all, as one woman said when asked why she most hoped to get from the week, "Hope".
This morning, before we began to teach, they told us:
"Since we started using the techniques he is more open to us, he has started to use words to ask for things, even in the last few days, he has started answering questions! He's more loving with his siblings and he has started to laugh again."
"Using the Son-Rise Program techniques that we learned from books and videos has helped Nathan to change so much. He has gone from no eye contact and all language gone, back to higher eye contact, and lots of words. He is now playful and cooperative - we are amazed!"
"We used the techniques for two weeks over the Christmas holiday and he started to speak. We saw him change so much, we decided not send him back to school, this is the program for us."
"Two days after I attended Raun Kaufman's lecture I started to use the techniques...two days later, my son, who is 'non-verbal' said, 'I love you'."
I told the groups that The Son-Rise Program I did with my daughter Jade when she was autistic was the greatest experience of my life. William and I feel so blessed to be here and to offer these families a glimpse of the possibilities that await them.
And so it begins...their adventure with The Son-Rise Program and with their child...
With so much joy,
Bryn
They represented children ranging in age from 2-33 years. These children had diagnosis such as Autism, Epilepsy, Sensory Integration Disorder, Aspergers Syndrome, Global Developmental Delay and others. They had come to attend The Son-Rise Program Start-Up because they wanted help for their children and most of all, as one woman said when asked why she most hoped to get from the week, "Hope".
This morning, before we began to teach, they told us:
"Since we started using the techniques he is more open to us, he has started to use words to ask for things, even in the last few days, he has started answering questions! He's more loving with his siblings and he has started to laugh again."
"Using the Son-Rise Program techniques that we learned from books and videos has helped Nathan to change so much. He has gone from no eye contact and all language gone, back to higher eye contact, and lots of words. He is now playful and cooperative - we are amazed!"
"We used the techniques for two weeks over the Christmas holiday and he started to speak. We saw him change so much, we decided not send him back to school, this is the program for us."
"Two days after I attended Raun Kaufman's lecture I started to use the techniques...two days later, my son, who is 'non-verbal' said, 'I love you'."
I told the groups that The Son-Rise Program I did with my daughter Jade when she was autistic was the greatest experience of my life. William and I feel so blessed to be here and to offer these families a glimpse of the possibilities that await them.
And so it begins...their adventure with The Son-Rise Program and with their child...
With so much joy,
Bryn
Labels: Attitude, Bryn, Inspiration, Training Programs
Read more!
posted by Bryn Hogan, Executive Director, ATCA at
1:41 PM
1 Comments
Friday, January 15, 2010
From Becky: Boundaries
I was recently working with a Mother who is doing The Son-Rise Program with her child.
An issue she had was that her child kept asking to go out of the playroom. He'd turn off the lights, stand by the door and rattle the door handle several times.
This wonderful Mother who is working on language with her child would ask "What do you want, tell me what you want?" To which he would say "I want out".
Then she would let him out because she wanted to show him the power of his language by giving him what he had asked for. Then the session would be over.
If this sounds familiar to you then here are some ideas.
1) At The Autism Treatment Center of America, we believe in setting clear boundaries for our children. We know that boundaries are useful and will help our children in their lives. One boundary we always set is that when we are in The Son-Rise Program playroom the door stays shut and locked. This is because we know that working with our child in this one to one environment with no distractions for us or our child is absolutely the best way to help them.
2) That it's ok if our children are going to the door or wanting to get out, the idea is not to try and distract them away from the door but to help them see that in life you don’t always get what you want and help them to work through that.
3) That we can still work on language and celebrate them for talking to us. So even if they are saying "I want out", we can say "I love that you are talking to me but the door will still be locked because I love you and want to help you".
4) Offer an alternative. Maybe your child is wanting something that is outside that they don't know is in the playroom, always ensure that you have fresh snacks, a drink and a way for your child to use the bathroom in the room and have fun showing them all of these things and offering them what they might want.
5) Feel comfortable, loving and assumption free even if your child whines, cries, shouts or tantrums about the door staying locked. If when you don't open the door your child does this, it doesn't necessarily mean that your child is unhappy, they are trying to communicate with you and see what might work to get what they want and they also could be seeking a reaction from you so that you eventually "Cave" and open the door.
6) Having the door shut and locked is an act of love. In this playroom I can accept my child, join my child, give my child much more control than outside of the playroom, I can celebrate my child and teach my child in this room.
An issue she had was that her child kept asking to go out of the playroom. He'd turn off the lights, stand by the door and rattle the door handle several times.
This wonderful Mother who is working on language with her child would ask "What do you want, tell me what you want?" To which he would say "I want out".
Then she would let him out because she wanted to show him the power of his language by giving him what he had asked for. Then the session would be over.
If this sounds familiar to you then here are some ideas.
1) At The Autism Treatment Center of America, we believe in setting clear boundaries for our children. We know that boundaries are useful and will help our children in their lives. One boundary we always set is that when we are in The Son-Rise Program playroom the door stays shut and locked. This is because we know that working with our child in this one to one environment with no distractions for us or our child is absolutely the best way to help them.
2) That it's ok if our children are going to the door or wanting to get out, the idea is not to try and distract them away from the door but to help them see that in life you don’t always get what you want and help them to work through that.
3) That we can still work on language and celebrate them for talking to us. So even if they are saying "I want out", we can say "I love that you are talking to me but the door will still be locked because I love you and want to help you".
4) Offer an alternative. Maybe your child is wanting something that is outside that they don't know is in the playroom, always ensure that you have fresh snacks, a drink and a way for your child to use the bathroom in the room and have fun showing them all of these things and offering them what they might want.
5) Feel comfortable, loving and assumption free even if your child whines, cries, shouts or tantrums about the door staying locked. If when you don't open the door your child does this, it doesn't necessarily mean that your child is unhappy, they are trying to communicate with you and see what might work to get what they want and they also could be seeking a reaction from you so that you eventually "Cave" and open the door.
6) Having the door shut and locked is an act of love. In this playroom I can accept my child, join my child, give my child much more control than outside of the playroom, I can celebrate my child and teach my child in this room.
Labels: Environment, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
6:53 AM
2 Comments
Thursday, January 7, 2010
From Becky: Bread substitute!
Here are some more Gluten, Casein and sugar free ideas.
Question: What is shaped like a burger bun and is 10 times more tasty and nutritious for our children?
Answer: A Portabello Mushroom
A tasty addition to a burger instead of using a bun is to use two Portabello mushrooms brushed with olive oil. Put them on the grill, place your burger inside and voila!
Question: What is shaped like a burger bun and is 10 times more tasty and nutritious for our children?
Answer: A Portabello Mushroom
A tasty addition to a burger instead of using a bun is to use two Portabello mushrooms brushed with olive oil. Put them on the grill, place your burger inside and voila!
Labels: Diet - Biomedical, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
6:32 PM
0 Comments
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
From Becky: Diet - more ideas!
Hi,
Recently I was looking for something gluten/casein and sugar free with a soft texture that I could use us a thickener or a dipping sauce and I found........ Hummus.
Look at the ingredients if you are shopping for Hummus but I have found several tasty brands that just contain chick peas, tahini, garlic and olive oil. I enjoy them to dip veggies in or as a salad dressing and I had a great dinner last night of steamed fish with lemon hummus on it.
Enjoy!
Recently I was looking for something gluten/casein and sugar free with a soft texture that I could use us a thickener or a dipping sauce and I found........ Hummus.
Look at the ingredients if you are shopping for Hummus but I have found several tasty brands that just contain chick peas, tahini, garlic and olive oil. I enjoy them to dip veggies in or as a salad dressing and I had a great dinner last night of steamed fish with lemon hummus on it.
Enjoy!
Labels: Diet - Biomedical, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
7:14 PM
0 Comments
From Becky: More GF/CF/Sugar Free
Delicious Dessert!
Many children that I work with at The Autism Treatment Center of America enjoy eating sweet, sugary foods.
I have discovered an absolutely delicious dessert that you can find in Health Food Stores. It's totally gluten, casein, sugar and soy free and has a lovely creamy texture like ice cream. It's called Coconut Bliss and I just ate some for dessert.....yummy!
Many children that I work with at The Autism Treatment Center of America enjoy eating sweet, sugary foods.
I have discovered an absolutely delicious dessert that you can find in Health Food Stores. It's totally gluten, casein, sugar and soy free and has a lovely creamy texture like ice cream. It's called Coconut Bliss and I just ate some for dessert.....yummy!
Labels: Diet - Biomedical, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
7:02 PM
1 Comments
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Creativity
From Kate Wilde:Here at The Autism Treatment Center of America we believe that creativity is all about attitude, when we enjoy what we are doing we are creative. To learn more about the attitude of creativity click on the video below, or if you are on face book click on the title of this blog, then on "view original blog", then on the video itself.
Sending much love and good wishes to you and your children this Holiday!
Kate
Sending much love and good wishes to you and your children this Holiday!
Kate
Labels: Creativity, Inspiration, Kate
Read more!
posted by Kate Wilde at
11:33 AM
0 Comments
Friday, December 18, 2009
From Becky: Diet Tips take 3
More Ideas to spice up a gluten/casein and sugar free diet:
Mustard
Mustard is great because it's the only condiment I have found that doesn't contain sugar and sugar products, wheat or dairy.
You can find all kinds of different mustard's at the grocery store. Always check the labels because some do contain sugar.
I use spicy brown mustard as a dipping sauce. This is great if your child is used to eating lots of sugary condiments such as ketchup, steak or barbecue sauce. It makes for a sweet and interesting substitute.
I Make my own salad dressing out of mustard, olive oil, vinegar and garlic. I keep whole garlic cloves in the bottle so they don't fall out when pouring and just keep topping up the other ingredients to taste.
You can also use mustard as part of a marinade or when cooking to thicken meat or vegetable juices.
Yeah for mustard!
Mustard
Mustard is great because it's the only condiment I have found that doesn't contain sugar and sugar products, wheat or dairy.
You can find all kinds of different mustard's at the grocery store. Always check the labels because some do contain sugar.
I use spicy brown mustard as a dipping sauce. This is great if your child is used to eating lots of sugary condiments such as ketchup, steak or barbecue sauce. It makes for a sweet and interesting substitute.
I Make my own salad dressing out of mustard, olive oil, vinegar and garlic. I keep whole garlic cloves in the bottle so they don't fall out when pouring and just keep topping up the other ingredients to taste.
You can also use mustard as part of a marinade or when cooking to thicken meat or vegetable juices.
Yeah for mustard!
Labels: Diet - Biomedical, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
6:15 AM
0 Comments
Thursday, December 17, 2009
From Becky, more ideas for GF/CF Sugar Free Diet
At The Autisn Treatment Center of America, we work with many children on specific diets. Here are some more ideas to keep cooking interesting for you and your kids.
Some food ideas that I use as my "Saving Grace" when following a gluten, casein and sugar free diet.
Coconut products.
Coconut oil - It's sweet, creamy and delicious and can be used in marinades for meat and vegetables, to saute with or in cakes or breads.
Coconut milk - when cooking rice, substitute half or all the water with coconut milk to make for a delicious variation on plain rice.
Unsweetened coconut flakes or shredded coconut. I use the shredded kind as a subtitute for grated cheese, fantastic sprinkled on top of meat sauce.
If your child likes breadcrumb procucts, such as chicken nuggets, dip the chicken pieces in egg first, then almond or soy flour, and finally shredded coconut before baking or shallow frying. You can also use it to coat fish.
Enjoy
Some food ideas that I use as my "Saving Grace" when following a gluten, casein and sugar free diet.
Coconut products.
Coconut oil - It's sweet, creamy and delicious and can be used in marinades for meat and vegetables, to saute with or in cakes or breads.
Coconut milk - when cooking rice, substitute half or all the water with coconut milk to make for a delicious variation on plain rice.
Unsweetened coconut flakes or shredded coconut. I use the shredded kind as a subtitute for grated cheese, fantastic sprinkled on top of meat sauce.
If your child likes breadcrumb procucts, such as chicken nuggets, dip the chicken pieces in egg first, then almond or soy flour, and finally shredded coconut before baking or shallow frying. You can also use it to coat fish.
Enjoy
Labels: Diet - Biomedical, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
2:08 PM
0 Comments
Friday, December 11, 2009
From Becky: Gluten, Casein and Sugar Free Treats!
From Becky: Is your child, or your family on a Gluten, Casein and Sugar free diet?, if so, here are some yummy treats that you can make if you or your child have a sweet tooth.
Orange Pudding
1 cup of pureed cooked carrots
1 cup of pureed cooked pears
1 tablespoon of nut butter (almond or cashew)
Blend together and enjoy
Green Pudding
1 ripe avocado
1 ripe banana
1 tablespoon nut butter (almond or cashew)
1 teaspoon of honey (optional)
Blend together and enjoy
Delicious!
Orange Pudding
1 cup of pureed cooked carrots
1 cup of pureed cooked pears
1 tablespoon of nut butter (almond or cashew)
Blend together and enjoy
Green Pudding
1 ripe avocado
1 ripe banana
1 tablespoon nut butter (almond or cashew)
1 teaspoon of honey (optional)
Blend together and enjoy
Delicious!
Labels: Diet - Biomedical, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
8:31 AM
0 Comments
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
From Becky: This Dog is an Inspiration!
From Becky: Working at The Autism Treatment Center of America, I see examples again and again of our special children doing things that their families have been told they will never do (e.g. saying their first word at 9 years old, saying "Mommy I love you!", doing imagination play, or taking a first step).
Because I believe anything is possible, I am continually being sent emails and videos by people who have like-minded attitudes and want to share their stories of persistence and hope.
Check out this video about a dog and its owner's experience doing just that.
Because I believe anything is possible, I am continually being sent emails and videos by people who have like-minded attitudes and want to share their stories of persistence and hope.
Check out this video about a dog and its owner's experience doing just that.
Labels: Attitude, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
9:25 AM
0 Comments
Friday, December 4, 2009
From Becky: Prime of My Life!
From Becky: Today it is my 35th birthday! Recently I was having a conversation with one of my close friends about how my birthday was coming up and it wasn't a big deal. My friend said "Don't you ever say that it's not a big deal! Your birthday is the day you were born and that's a very BIG DEAL!!!"
From that moment, I realized that by saying that I was playing myself down and making myself small and irrelevant which is how I lived most of my life up until coming the work at The Autism Treatment Center of America. I changed my attitude in an instant.
So today I am going to celebrate celebrate celebrate! It is really something that I am here, I am alive and I was born!
It matters that I choose happiness everyday when so many people around me are choosing anger, hate and discomfort.
It is a big deal that I have helped so many families reach their special children over the years and that I have inspired children to stretch and grow in unimaginable ways.
It is important that I have challenged so many beliefs, and changed the ones that weren't working for me anymore, even when I thought for sure that I wasn't able to.
And most of all, I am extremely grateful to myself for being my own biggest teacher.
I am in the prime of my life! Some may think that being in your twenties is being in the prime of your life. As I turn 35 today, I am living my life in a bigger way than I ever have.
When I was thirty, I began my journey at The Autism Treatment Center of America, and began an incredible adventure, an adventure of love, acceptance and hope. Why would I want to be younger when I have so much more today?
I encourage you all to celebrate yourselves for being born today! You matter and you are a big deal!
From that moment, I realized that by saying that I was playing myself down and making myself small and irrelevant which is how I lived most of my life up until coming the work at The Autism Treatment Center of America. I changed my attitude in an instant.
So today I am going to celebrate celebrate celebrate! It is really something that I am here, I am alive and I was born!
It matters that I choose happiness everyday when so many people around me are choosing anger, hate and discomfort.
It is a big deal that I have helped so many families reach their special children over the years and that I have inspired children to stretch and grow in unimaginable ways.
It is important that I have challenged so many beliefs, and changed the ones that weren't working for me anymore, even when I thought for sure that I wasn't able to.
And most of all, I am extremely grateful to myself for being my own biggest teacher.
I am in the prime of my life! Some may think that being in your twenties is being in the prime of your life. As I turn 35 today, I am living my life in a bigger way than I ever have.
When I was thirty, I began my journey at The Autism Treatment Center of America, and began an incredible adventure, an adventure of love, acceptance and hope. Why would I want to be younger when I have so much more today?
I encourage you all to celebrate yourselves for being born today! You matter and you are a big deal!
Labels: Attitude, Celebrations, Inspiration, Personal Growth, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
5:54 AM
2 Comments
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
From Becky: Being Present!
From Becky: Recently I flew to Houston, TX to work with a beautiful Mother and her son for the weekend using The Son-Rise Program.
One of the principles of The Son-Rise Program is to be present when we are working with our children in the playroom so that we are comfortable and super aware of how to help them. Being present is something I have practised over the years but I do not always choose it outside of the playroom.
One area where I don't typically choose to be present is when I am travelling. On this flight to Houston, I had a long journey ahead of me, getting up at 3am to get on a flight and then a connecting flight to my destination.
Usually when I'm flying, there comes a point that I start living in the past or the future (e.g. "I wish I had got a window seat", "I hope we get there soon", etc).
As I sat on my 3 hour flight from Washington Dulles to Houston, there was nothing but the present moment. I decided to focus on the here and now and embrace each moment that came. I sat for three hours, allowing nothing else to come into my mind about what was going to happen next, or what had already happened.
Our children are so present, they find joy in the simplest things (e.g. shaking a drumstick, eating, pacing back and fourth, etc). There is nowhere for them to be, nothing else for them to do.
As I sat being present for that extended period of time, I came to a place of complete peace and as a result of that I had a great experience, instead of an "OK" one.
One of the principles of The Son-Rise Program is to be present when we are working with our children in the playroom so that we are comfortable and super aware of how to help them. Being present is something I have practised over the years but I do not always choose it outside of the playroom.
One area where I don't typically choose to be present is when I am travelling. On this flight to Houston, I had a long journey ahead of me, getting up at 3am to get on a flight and then a connecting flight to my destination.
Usually when I'm flying, there comes a point that I start living in the past or the future (e.g. "I wish I had got a window seat", "I hope we get there soon", etc).
As I sat on my 3 hour flight from Washington Dulles to Houston, there was nothing but the present moment. I decided to focus on the here and now and embrace each moment that came. I sat for three hours, allowing nothing else to come into my mind about what was going to happen next, or what had already happened.
Our children are so present, they find joy in the simplest things (e.g. shaking a drumstick, eating, pacing back and fourth, etc). There is nowhere for them to be, nothing else for them to do.
As I sat being present for that extended period of time, I came to a place of complete peace and as a result of that I had a great experience, instead of an "OK" one.
Labels: Attitude, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
8:35 AM
0 Comments
Monday, November 16, 2009
10 Ways to Build off Squeezes
Hi all,
Many children that I have worked with at The Autism Treatment Center of America have really enjoyed squeezes on their hands, legs, heads, etc, and big body squeezes. Here are 10 ideas to try if your child likes squeezes.
1) Bring 2 pillows into the playroom and hold them in your arms. Have fun squishing your child in the pillows when they motivated for squeezes.
2) Use puppets to give squeezes on their hands and feet. Use different character voices for each puppet as you model the word squeeze them.
3) Fill a hat with adjectives writen on several strips of paper (e.g. fast, slow, deep, shaky, etc). Experiment with having your child pick out of the hat to see what type of squeezes to have next.
4) For an older child, pretend you are at the day spa. Draw a menu on a piece of posterboard of the different treatments you offer at the spa (e.g. finger massage, deep massage treatment, rolling pin massage, etc).
5) Attach circles of different textured fabrics to the fingers of a cheap pair of gloves to squeeze with (e.g. Velcro, satin, foam, etc).
6) Pretend your child is a piece of pizza dough that you need to shape and mould by kneading the dough.
7) Fly around the playroom to different planets (e.g. hand planet, foot planet, elbow planet, etc). Each time you land on one of the planets, where you have to squeeze that body part.
8) Pretend that you are a blind person who can't see where to squeeze without your child looking at you. Have fun fumbling around trying to find your child each time they look away. This is a great way to work on eye contact too.
9) Work on choices with your child by having them choose which part of their body they want squeezing.
10) Roll a dice with different animal pictures on each side, then squeeze your child in the style of that animal (e.g. monkey squeeze, bird squeeze, cat squeeze, etc).
Have fun!
Many children that I have worked with at The Autism Treatment Center of America have really enjoyed squeezes on their hands, legs, heads, etc, and big body squeezes. Here are 10 ideas to try if your child likes squeezes.
1) Bring 2 pillows into the playroom and hold them in your arms. Have fun squishing your child in the pillows when they motivated for squeezes.
2) Use puppets to give squeezes on their hands and feet. Use different character voices for each puppet as you model the word squeeze them.
3) Fill a hat with adjectives writen on several strips of paper (e.g. fast, slow, deep, shaky, etc). Experiment with having your child pick out of the hat to see what type of squeezes to have next.
4) For an older child, pretend you are at the day spa. Draw a menu on a piece of posterboard of the different treatments you offer at the spa (e.g. finger massage, deep massage treatment, rolling pin massage, etc).
5) Attach circles of different textured fabrics to the fingers of a cheap pair of gloves to squeeze with (e.g. Velcro, satin, foam, etc).
6) Pretend your child is a piece of pizza dough that you need to shape and mould by kneading the dough.
7) Fly around the playroom to different planets (e.g. hand planet, foot planet, elbow planet, etc). Each time you land on one of the planets, where you have to squeeze that body part.
8) Pretend that you are a blind person who can't see where to squeeze without your child looking at you. Have fun fumbling around trying to find your child each time they look away. This is a great way to work on eye contact too.
9) Work on choices with your child by having them choose which part of their body they want squeezing.
10) Roll a dice with different animal pictures on each side, then squeeze your child in the style of that animal (e.g. monkey squeeze, bird squeeze, cat squeeze, etc).
Have fun!
Labels: Fun and Games, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
2:07 PM
0 Comments
Friday, November 13, 2009
Do it Anyway.
"When I dare to be powerful - to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid" -Audre Lorde
I have these words written on a postcard taped to my bathroom mirror. They have helped me move through any fears I may have about new or challenging things I might be doing. Like when I was learning to present the Son-Rise Program in front of 100's of people, or when I began my teacher training and had to learn to trust myself.
My vision is to do what it takes to help as many parents know about The Son-Rise Program, and to help them know how to help their special children and believe that they are the most powerful person to help their children on the Autism Spectrum.
Your vision I believe is to help your special children grow to be the best that they can be. I write these words today to you so that they may help you to do new and challenging things in the name of your children. Whether you are about to run your first group meeting with your volunteers. or give feedback to a volunteer and tell them something that you would like them to do differently with your child. Or maybe you are about to take your child out of school and start a home based program, or you are beginning a home based program without the support of your extended family. Maybe your are fundraising for the first time to help you get services for your child.
Keep hold of your vision for your child and this will help you do what is difficult for you. By doing it anyway it will become easier and easier, and you will be living the life that you want.
Be bold - start doing.
Know that we are thinking about you, supporting you and respect all that you do with and for your children each day.
Much love
Kate
I have these words written on a postcard taped to my bathroom mirror. They have helped me move through any fears I may have about new or challenging things I might be doing. Like when I was learning to present the Son-Rise Program in front of 100's of people, or when I began my teacher training and had to learn to trust myself.
My vision is to do what it takes to help as many parents know about The Son-Rise Program, and to help them know how to help their special children and believe that they are the most powerful person to help their children on the Autism Spectrum.
Your vision I believe is to help your special children grow to be the best that they can be. I write these words today to you so that they may help you to do new and challenging things in the name of your children. Whether you are about to run your first group meeting with your volunteers. or give feedback to a volunteer and tell them something that you would like them to do differently with your child. Or maybe you are about to take your child out of school and start a home based program, or you are beginning a home based program without the support of your extended family. Maybe your are fundraising for the first time to help you get services for your child.
Keep hold of your vision for your child and this will help you do what is difficult for you. By doing it anyway it will become easier and easier, and you will be living the life that you want.
Be bold - start doing.
Know that we are thinking about you, supporting you and respect all that you do with and for your children each day.
Much love
Kate
Labels: Attitude, Inspiration, Kate
Read more!
posted by Kate Wilde at
5:02 AM
0 Comments
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
10 ways to make the toilet fun!
Here are 10 ways you can make going to the toilet fun, yes actually fun!
One way I have seen many children explore the toilet on their own accord successfully is to make it a fun and easy experience for both you and them and use their motivations to inspire them be near it, sit on it, and eventually use it!
1)Decorate the toilet with fun pictures or stickers of your child's favorite characters.
2) Give different stuffed animals and figurines rides to "Potty Station" to deliver their pee and poop, when your child is motivated, offer him/her a ride too.
3) Pick one of your child's main motivations (e.g. tickles, singing, bubbles, etc) and make the toilet into Tickle/Singing/Bubble toilet! each time your child goes near, or sits on the toilet, give him/her lots of the fun activity he/she loves. Being near, or sitiing on the toilet activates the fun activity.
4) Decorate the toilet like a throne and each time your child sits on it, tell him/her they are the king/queen and run to give them things (e.g. food, music, etc) as their servant.
5) Hang a fun mobil above the toilet so that when they sit on it, it's visually stimulating for them to watch. Experiment with blowing or moving the mobil for them once they sit on the toilet.
6) Try putting a couple of cheerio's down the toilet and encourage your child to hit the cheerio targets with their pee.
7) Use a fun, colorful seat to put on the toilet and a handy step stool if your child is smaller.
8) Celebrate Celebrate Celebrate! Whenever your child looks at, touches, sits on the toilet and ultimately uses it, cheer them on for all their attempts, help them to feel successful in what they are doing.
9) Give your child plenty of control, whenever he/she says "No" or resists what you offering, celebrate him/her for showing you and drop it for a while.
10) Be persistent, keep trying in many fun and different ways, it may not happen over night, be easy with yourself and your child, believe it will happen when your child is ready!
Have fun!
One way I have seen many children explore the toilet on their own accord successfully is to make it a fun and easy experience for both you and them and use their motivations to inspire them be near it, sit on it, and eventually use it!
1)Decorate the toilet with fun pictures or stickers of your child's favorite characters.
2) Give different stuffed animals and figurines rides to "Potty Station" to deliver their pee and poop, when your child is motivated, offer him/her a ride too.
3) Pick one of your child's main motivations (e.g. tickles, singing, bubbles, etc) and make the toilet into Tickle/Singing/Bubble toilet! each time your child goes near, or sits on the toilet, give him/her lots of the fun activity he/she loves. Being near, or sitiing on the toilet activates the fun activity.
4) Decorate the toilet like a throne and each time your child sits on it, tell him/her they are the king/queen and run to give them things (e.g. food, music, etc) as their servant.
5) Hang a fun mobil above the toilet so that when they sit on it, it's visually stimulating for them to watch. Experiment with blowing or moving the mobil for them once they sit on the toilet.
6) Try putting a couple of cheerio's down the toilet and encourage your child to hit the cheerio targets with their pee.
7) Use a fun, colorful seat to put on the toilet and a handy step stool if your child is smaller.
8) Celebrate Celebrate Celebrate! Whenever your child looks at, touches, sits on the toilet and ultimately uses it, cheer them on for all their attempts, help them to feel successful in what they are doing.
9) Give your child plenty of control, whenever he/she says "No" or resists what you offering, celebrate him/her for showing you and drop it for a while.
10) Be persistent, keep trying in many fun and different ways, it may not happen over night, be easy with yourself and your child, believe it will happen when your child is ready!
Have fun!
Labels: Creativity, Inspiration, Self-Help Skills, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
5:55 AM
1 Comments
Monday, November 2, 2009
Be Silly
Hello Again!
There at The Autism Treatment Center of America being silly is on the menu everyday.
All children whether they are on the Autism Spectrum or not can be touched and reached by silliness.
Silliness knows no bounds -when we are silly there is no right or wrong, good or bad, just a delight in what is. A desire to reach out, and play with the gifts that life has given us.
Click on the video below, (or if you are on Facebook, click on the title of this blog, then on "View Original Post" which will take you to the video) for a little bit of silly inspiration, the Son-Rise Program way.
Much love to you and your lovely children.
Kate
There at The Autism Treatment Center of America being silly is on the menu everyday.
All children whether they are on the Autism Spectrum or not can be touched and reached by silliness.
Silliness knows no bounds -when we are silly there is no right or wrong, good or bad, just a delight in what is. A desire to reach out, and play with the gifts that life has given us.
Click on the video below, (or if you are on Facebook, click on the title of this blog, then on "View Original Post" which will take you to the video) for a little bit of silly inspiration, the Son-Rise Program way.
Much love to you and your lovely children.
Kate
Labels: Creativity, Inspiration, Kate
Read more!
posted by Kate Wilde at
11:17 AM
0 Comments
Friday, October 30, 2009
An Extraordinary Celebration
Imagine this... A little girl diagnosed with autism celebrates her 6th birthday - and for the first time in her life is able to have a party with friends - and is completely indistinguishable from her peers - participating typically in every moment of the party. What a special birthday to celebrate!
Elizabeth is an amazing little girl with sparkly eyes who happens to love everything to do with the magic of fairies. She has an amazing little smile and she invites you in to play with her with such joy and delight - telling you all about her fairies and asking you which one is your favorite, and playing with you with such flexibility and ease.
Three years ago, when I first met Elizabeth's family - she spent most of her time playing alone - inflexible and rigid about what she would play, using only enough language to communicate her basic wants and not demonstrating any interest in her peers.
After two years of a home-based Son-Rise Program, she started school this year - and now has so many friends that she had to be convinced that she had room to invite her sister to her birthday party. For two hours, Elizabeth played games with her friends (in a big room full of carnival-type games), talked to her friends, participated in hitting the pinata, held her friend's hand while in line for a game, opened all of her presents and thanked each of her friends. It was a truly special day.
And now - Elizabeth talks non-stop about how fun the party was.
So, as Elizabeth blows out the candles on her birthday cake, I am sending a wish to each of you - that you find something extraordinary to celebrate in your children today.
Elizabeth is an amazing little girl with sparkly eyes who happens to love everything to do with the magic of fairies. She has an amazing little smile and she invites you in to play with her with such joy and delight - telling you all about her fairies and asking you which one is your favorite, and playing with you with such flexibility and ease.
Three years ago, when I first met Elizabeth's family - she spent most of her time playing alone - inflexible and rigid about what she would play, using only enough language to communicate her basic wants and not demonstrating any interest in her peers.
After two years of a home-based Son-Rise Program, she started school this year - and now has so many friends that she had to be convinced that she had room to invite her sister to her birthday party. For two hours, Elizabeth played games with her friends (in a big room full of carnival-type games), talked to her friends, participated in hitting the pinata, held her friend's hand while in line for a game, opened all of her presents and thanked each of her friends. It was a truly special day.
And now - Elizabeth talks non-stop about how fun the party was.
So, as Elizabeth blows out the candles on her birthday cake, I am sending a wish to each of you - that you find something extraordinary to celebrate in your children today.
Labels: Carolina, Celebrations, Inspiration
Read more!
posted by Carolina, Son-Rise Program Senior Teacher at
6:46 AM
0 Comments
Thursday, October 29, 2009
10 Variations for Snack
This week we are working in "The Son-Rise Program" intensive with a gorgeous five year old boy who is very motivated for food.
Here are 10 things you can do to vary the game as you give your child snacks from the shelf.
1) Put each piece of food into a toy bus/car/train/ambulance and deliver it to your child using a fun sound effect that goes with the vehicle you are using.
2) Wear a hat with the top cut off and a bowl of your child's favorite snack inside of it, you can work on eye contact as you bring each piece down.
3) Use fun puppets to bring each piece of snack down to your child.
4) Invite your child take your hands and dance to the shelf together to get the food. Experiment with dancing in different styles (e.g. rock and roll, ballet, etc).
5) Throw a tea party and serve up your childs snacks and drinks bit by bit using plastic cups and plates.
6) Bring each snack down for your child in a different way each time (e.g. fly it down, bounce it down, wobble it down, etc).
7) Bring two pieces of food down and hide them behind your back in both hands. invite your child to pick the hand he wants to get the corresponding snack.
8) Cut out circles from construction paper and tape them to the floor, pretend they are giant stepping stones or lilly pads that the two of you have to jump across to get to the food. Play around with pretending to fall into the water to lengthen the game.
9) Place strips of Artist's tape across the floor to the shelf pretending it's a train track. You are the "eat train" which gives your child rides to the shelf and back with the snacks being your fuel to keep you both going.
10) Pretend that each time you touch the different snacks they make you do fun, slapstick actions (e.g. fall over, get the hiccups, start giggling, etc).
Have fun with food!
Here are 10 things you can do to vary the game as you give your child snacks from the shelf.
1) Put each piece of food into a toy bus/car/train/ambulance and deliver it to your child using a fun sound effect that goes with the vehicle you are using.
2) Wear a hat with the top cut off and a bowl of your child's favorite snack inside of it, you can work on eye contact as you bring each piece down.
3) Use fun puppets to bring each piece of snack down to your child.
4) Invite your child take your hands and dance to the shelf together to get the food. Experiment with dancing in different styles (e.g. rock and roll, ballet, etc).
5) Throw a tea party and serve up your childs snacks and drinks bit by bit using plastic cups and plates.
6) Bring each snack down for your child in a different way each time (e.g. fly it down, bounce it down, wobble it down, etc).
7) Bring two pieces of food down and hide them behind your back in both hands. invite your child to pick the hand he wants to get the corresponding snack.
8) Cut out circles from construction paper and tape them to the floor, pretend they are giant stepping stones or lilly pads that the two of you have to jump across to get to the food. Play around with pretending to fall into the water to lengthen the game.
9) Place strips of Artist's tape across the floor to the shelf pretending it's a train track. You are the "eat train" which gives your child rides to the shelf and back with the snacks being your fuel to keep you both going.
10) Pretend that each time you touch the different snacks they make you do fun, slapstick actions (e.g. fall over, get the hiccups, start giggling, etc).
Have fun with food!
Labels: Creativity, Fun and Games, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
11:31 AM
0 Comments
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
What's Most Important
This morning as I was getting the kids 'out the door' for school, we were rushing. My son couldn't find his cleats, the trash bag broke on the floor and we were rushing. I was focused on getting things done, on meeting my deadline to get them to school. I was focused on this until my daughter Jade said, "Mom" and she took my hand. I went to her and then, while holding my hand she said, "Dad, come here" and he came over. She put her arms around both of us and pulled us into a three way embrace. We stood in the kitchen, holding each other. She kissed my cheek and my husband kissed her head. We all looked at each other and smiled.
Then, I couldn't remember why I'd been rushing. I did though remember why my daughter would have thought for us to take this moment together. I remembered all the hours and days and weeks and years we spent in her Son-Rise Program playroom, working with her, helping her to 'come out' of her Autism. We focused not on 'getting things done' but on love and kindness, on hugs and sharing. Today, no longer having any Autism, my daughter is a living example of all we did then, and a daily reminder of what is actually most important.
Bryn
Then, I couldn't remember why I'd been rushing. I did though remember why my daughter would have thought for us to take this moment together. I remembered all the hours and days and weeks and years we spent in her Son-Rise Program playroom, working with her, helping her to 'come out' of her Autism. We focused not on 'getting things done' but on love and kindness, on hugs and sharing. Today, no longer having any Autism, my daughter is a living example of all we did then, and a daily reminder of what is actually most important.
Bryn
Labels: Attitude, Bryn, Inspiration
Read more!
posted by Bryn Hogan, Executive Director, ATCA at
6:55 AM
1 Comments
Monday, October 26, 2009
What Your Soul Sings
I recently came across the lyrics to a song that really touched me. Since working at The Autism Treatment Center of America, I have learned to be more authentic, to listen to my inner voice and follow my heart and most importantly to love myself. Enjoy.
What Your Soul Sings
Don't be afraid
Open your mouth and say
Say what your soul sings to you
Your mind can never change
Unless you ask it to
Lovingly re-arrange
The thoughts that make you blue
The things that bring you down
Only do harm to you
So make your choice joy
The joy belongs to you
And when you do
You'll find the one you love is you
You'll find you love you
Don't be ashamed
To open your heart and pray
Say what your soul sings
To you
So no longer pretend
That you can't feel it near
That tickle on your head
That tingle in your ear
Oh ask it anything
Because it loves you dear
It's your most precious king
If only you could hear
And when you do
You'll find the one you need is you
You'll find you love you
What Your Soul Sings
Don't be afraid
Open your mouth and say
Say what your soul sings to you
Your mind can never change
Unless you ask it to
Lovingly re-arrange
The thoughts that make you blue
The things that bring you down
Only do harm to you
So make your choice joy
The joy belongs to you
And when you do
You'll find the one you love is you
You'll find you love you
Don't be ashamed
To open your heart and pray
Say what your soul sings
To you
So no longer pretend
That you can't feel it near
That tickle on your head
That tingle in your ear
Oh ask it anything
Because it loves you dear
It's your most precious king
If only you could hear
And when you do
You'll find the one you need is you
You'll find you love you
Labels: Attitude, Inspiration, Personal Growth, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
10:54 AM
0 Comments
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
It's All About Attitude
At The Son-Rise Program we choose to believe that anything is possible for out children. Check out this amazing video about how the attitude you have greatly affects the experience you have in life.
Labels: Attitude, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
10:11 AM
0 Comments
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
10 Variations for the Door
When working with children in The Son-Rise Program playroom there is one thing that happens quite often, especially when first transitioning the parents of the child. That is, the child goes to the door, either tries to open it when it is locked, asks for Mummy and Daddy or says "Open the door".
The first thing to do is explain to the child that the door is going to be locked and exactly when the parents will be back. Sometimes, the child accepts that and drops it, other times, they continue to perseverate on the door.
Here are 10 things that you can do when your child does this.
1) Go on a hunt around the playroom to find the key, try different, fun things such as the tail of a toy dinosaur, the spout of a teapot, the whisker of a cat puppet, etc.
2) Get a pretend magic wand (e.g. a marker or drumstick) and create magic spells to cast on the door to see if it opens (e.g. "Hocus Pocus Diddly Deeze, make this door open with a sneeze").
3) Sing a song about the door.
4) Write a letter to Mom and Dad and post it under the door.
5) Try and crack the secret knocking code that opens the door (e.g. is it 2 quiet knock and one loud?, 3 short knocks and kiss?, etc).
6) Draw different keys, cut them out and try each one.
7) Pretend that the door knob is too slippery to grasp and entertain your child as you try to open it.
8) Line up all the toys in the playroom with you and your child at the front and try and pull the door open with all the toys helping you.
9) Pretend to be the person that your child is asking for by impersonating their voice, wearing a wig, etc, and giving them fun things in the way that person might (e.g. "I bet Daddy would tickle you like this.....", etc).
10) Brainstorm the things that your child might want that are outside the room and create them inside the playroom (e.g. if they want chips, make some pretend giant chips out of toy blocks, if the want Mom, offer them a hug, etc).
The first thing to do is explain to the child that the door is going to be locked and exactly when the parents will be back. Sometimes, the child accepts that and drops it, other times, they continue to perseverate on the door.
Here are 10 things that you can do when your child does this.
1) Go on a hunt around the playroom to find the key, try different, fun things such as the tail of a toy dinosaur, the spout of a teapot, the whisker of a cat puppet, etc.
2) Get a pretend magic wand (e.g. a marker or drumstick) and create magic spells to cast on the door to see if it opens (e.g. "Hocus Pocus Diddly Deeze, make this door open with a sneeze").
3) Sing a song about the door.
4) Write a letter to Mom and Dad and post it under the door.
5) Try and crack the secret knocking code that opens the door (e.g. is it 2 quiet knock and one loud?, 3 short knocks and kiss?, etc).
6) Draw different keys, cut them out and try each one.
7) Pretend that the door knob is too slippery to grasp and entertain your child as you try to open it.
8) Line up all the toys in the playroom with you and your child at the front and try and pull the door open with all the toys helping you.
9) Pretend to be the person that your child is asking for by impersonating their voice, wearing a wig, etc, and giving them fun things in the way that person might (e.g. "I bet Daddy would tickle you like this.....", etc).
10) Brainstorm the things that your child might want that are outside the room and create them inside the playroom (e.g. if they want chips, make some pretend giant chips out of toy blocks, if the want Mom, offer them a hug, etc).
Labels: Environment, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
9:08 AM
1 Comments
Generating Enthusiasm
Hi Everyone,
Today I want to share with you a short video clip that was sent to me. When I watched the clip, it reminded me of how wonderful it is to work at The Autism Treatment Center of America.
I am surrounded by a team of Teachers and Child Facilitators who are always choosing comfort over discomfort, always choosing fun and playfulness over seriousness and pressure, and always reaching for the thought that feels better.
This video is about encouraging people to be enthusiastic about taking the stairs instead of the escalator. Enjoy!
Today I want to share with you a short video clip that was sent to me. When I watched the clip, it reminded me of how wonderful it is to work at The Autism Treatment Center of America.
I am surrounded by a team of Teachers and Child Facilitators who are always choosing comfort over discomfort, always choosing fun and playfulness over seriousness and pressure, and always reaching for the thought that feels better.
This video is about encouraging people to be enthusiastic about taking the stairs instead of the escalator. Enjoy!
Labels: 3Es, Fun and Games, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
7:28 AM
0 Comments
A Good Place to Start
An introduction to our life and how Riley with Autism and The Son-Rise Program changed it all!
This is an answer to a friends questions who is writing a research paper for college. I thought it might be a good place to start; tell the story.
Q1. What was life like for Riley prior to the realization that he had autism? How did you raise him prior to The Son-Rise program and did you have to make any changes (diet modifications, etc.)?
A1.The early stages of life for Riley were mostly normal, he was a stiff baby, cried a lot. Had only an affinity for me, no one else. He was developing normally accept for language, around 10 months after the MMR shots he completely lost the only word he had. "Ball". After that he became super stiff baby, needing to be held even more...there were days he was never out of my arms. His tears became normal, as if they were his only words, but were never accompanied by " mommy", never "daddy" never" I love you." He had to cover his eyes to go into the light, to go in to the dark he had to cover his ears to deal with all sound. It was around 14 months that I asked the pediatrician why he couldn't find his nose. I have 4 children they all could find their nose....but no nose...no ears, no eyes, no " mommy". So all of this plus much more....equaled no time for anything else, I couldn't leave him, we couldn't go anywhere....so we didn't. I worked full time until he was 1 year old...but it was too hard to leave him...so we stopped. Hard doesn't begin to describe it. When we had no tools to deal with or understanding of what or who he was. We were simply existing...and not doing too well I might add. At 2 we figured out the gluten-free/ casein-free diet, we were told by our lovely in-laws and my mother about Jenny McCarthy and we tried it! It was a miracle to behold - he held his Daddy's hand for the first time and he became less agitated. We also gave him cod liver oil consistently..noticed many good changes. He wore a weighted vest, and had a SPIO...both o these things seemed to give him the physical awareness he needed to be OK. Still couldn't go anywhere easily.
Q2. How did you end up hearing about The Son-Rise program? Did you express any concerns about the program, such as the way it was run or its cost?
A2. We read Jonathan Levy's book What You Can Do Right Now to Help Your Child with Autism. We read and re-read and had other family members read....it was our first Autism book. How lucky! And it shaped everything we did. Very simple, very gracious and respectful of you and your child. We did our free Initial Call with The Autism Treatment Center of America, and it went from there. We did several updates with our Family Counselor and finally she had me fill out the financial aid questionnaire. It'ss expensive - but no more than any other therapy we have tried. Floortime is about $140 a hour and no fully paid for by our insurance, we did it for many months and spent a couple thousand on that for way less hands on input about me or my child. Yes, I wish it were cheaper and closer to me - I would learn to be a Child Facilitator.. I would teach for them - its that great!
Q3. How long have you been a Son-Rise Program parent? What key changes have you seen in Riley since you have adopted The Son-Rise program?
A3. We started implementing The Son-Rise Program in October of 2007. I didn't make it to Start Up until June 2008. But we thought we were doing great with just the bit of book instruction we had. He went from 15 words at 2 years of age to 78 by that following June in 2008. It was when I returned from Start up that he blossomed to 350 words with in 2 weeks and now speaks any word he so desires....well over 2000 words now. His language though in need of maturity and time is fabulous!! This is The Son-Rise Program! Key changes - language, language, language!!!, his patience, the ability to go to a store or the library successfully, the ability to play with other children and accept them, ability to try new things (including new foods), and the ability to meet new people! Plus his tantrums are smaller, (although we do still have some). Life is just better here with The Son-Rise Program. The love and acceptance I have learned at The Autism Treatment Center Son-Rise is invaluable - they took care of me when I attended - they showed me the way!
Q4. What are Riley's interests, and how have you been able to tailor his Son-Rise Program experiences to recognize those interests?
A4. The key to breaking out of the box that Autism has put you in is your child's interests. What are your child's interests? Riley changes from time to time, but for example he used to love to shuffle through playing cards or flash cards. We would shuffle together, eventually he was able to slide them through a mail slot and make stacks, and even tell me what was on them. He loves reading, but he used to just like to tear through the pictures, he didn't have the fine motor to deal with the pages, so he ripped - that's what they are for right? We ripped many things together. Eventually we just looked at pages, then we read, then we pointed and he told me something of what they said or were. He liked pirates for a while and we played many pirate games, created ships and costumes...that really motivated him to say many new words! Use motivation to create games and play activities that bring you and your child together!!!
Q5. Who makes up your Son-Rise Program team? What part do you think that they play in preparing Riley for the rigors and unpredictability of the real world?
A5. Our team has expanded and disbanded many times and includes a variety of people. We have my daughter and myself and my husband...of course my other son who is only 5 to Riley's 4. So he is the number one therapist...he has taught Riley everything!!! He is the real motivator!! We have team members from Riley's school, this is the 3rd year we have had the director of the developmental preschool come to our home every week to play with Riley. We have had others that came in the past also. Real world happens here every day for us - his brother torments him him like any other brother, we go out now, we go to the library, the store we even visit school for 2 hours a week now. All this from the playroom activities - we have played store in there and helped Riley understand what happens after you are in a store - which was key for Riley - what the process is.... We go in we get this , we go stand in line we leave...practicing made that easy!
Q6. With most individuals forced to find treatments for autism on their own, do you think that programs like The Son-Rise Program would benefit from government assistance? Why or why not?
A6. I think it would be difficult to say that we couldn't use the ability for government support, the money would greatly help so many. But the ideas of The Son-Rise Program are so freeing.... how would a controlled entity not squelch that. Its so freeing being there....I'm not sure what would happen if they were "supported" by government funds.
This is an answer to a friends questions who is writing a research paper for college. I thought it might be a good place to start; tell the story.
Q1. What was life like for Riley prior to the realization that he had autism? How did you raise him prior to The Son-Rise program and did you have to make any changes (diet modifications, etc.)?
A1.The early stages of life for Riley were mostly normal, he was a stiff baby, cried a lot. Had only an affinity for me, no one else. He was developing normally accept for language, around 10 months after the MMR shots he completely lost the only word he had. "Ball". After that he became super stiff baby, needing to be held even more...there were days he was never out of my arms. His tears became normal, as if they were his only words, but were never accompanied by " mommy", never "daddy" never" I love you." He had to cover his eyes to go into the light, to go in to the dark he had to cover his ears to deal with all sound. It was around 14 months that I asked the pediatrician why he couldn't find his nose. I have 4 children they all could find their nose....but no nose...no ears, no eyes, no " mommy". So all of this plus much more....equaled no time for anything else, I couldn't leave him, we couldn't go anywhere....so we didn't. I worked full time until he was 1 year old...but it was too hard to leave him...so we stopped. Hard doesn't begin to describe it. When we had no tools to deal with or understanding of what or who he was. We were simply existing...and not doing too well I might add. At 2 we figured out the gluten-free/ casein-free diet, we were told by our lovely in-laws and my mother about Jenny McCarthy and we tried it! It was a miracle to behold - he held his Daddy's hand for the first time and he became less agitated. We also gave him cod liver oil consistently..noticed many good changes. He wore a weighted vest, and had a SPIO...both o these things seemed to give him the physical awareness he needed to be OK. Still couldn't go anywhere easily.
Q2. How did you end up hearing about The Son-Rise program? Did you express any concerns about the program, such as the way it was run or its cost?
A2. We read Jonathan Levy's book What You Can Do Right Now to Help Your Child with Autism. We read and re-read and had other family members read....it was our first Autism book. How lucky! And it shaped everything we did. Very simple, very gracious and respectful of you and your child. We did our free Initial Call with The Autism Treatment Center of America, and it went from there. We did several updates with our Family Counselor and finally she had me fill out the financial aid questionnaire. It'ss expensive - but no more than any other therapy we have tried. Floortime is about $140 a hour and no fully paid for by our insurance, we did it for many months and spent a couple thousand on that for way less hands on input about me or my child. Yes, I wish it were cheaper and closer to me - I would learn to be a Child Facilitator.. I would teach for them - its that great!
Q3. How long have you been a Son-Rise Program parent? What key changes have you seen in Riley since you have adopted The Son-Rise program?
A3. We started implementing The Son-Rise Program in October of 2007. I didn't make it to Start Up until June 2008. But we thought we were doing great with just the bit of book instruction we had. He went from 15 words at 2 years of age to 78 by that following June in 2008. It was when I returned from Start up that he blossomed to 350 words with in 2 weeks and now speaks any word he so desires....well over 2000 words now. His language though in need of maturity and time is fabulous!! This is The Son-Rise Program! Key changes - language, language, language!!!, his patience, the ability to go to a store or the library successfully, the ability to play with other children and accept them, ability to try new things (including new foods), and the ability to meet new people! Plus his tantrums are smaller, (although we do still have some). Life is just better here with The Son-Rise Program. The love and acceptance I have learned at The Autism Treatment Center Son-Rise is invaluable - they took care of me when I attended - they showed me the way!
Q4. What are Riley's interests, and how have you been able to tailor his Son-Rise Program experiences to recognize those interests?
A4. The key to breaking out of the box that Autism has put you in is your child's interests. What are your child's interests? Riley changes from time to time, but for example he used to love to shuffle through playing cards or flash cards. We would shuffle together, eventually he was able to slide them through a mail slot and make stacks, and even tell me what was on them. He loves reading, but he used to just like to tear through the pictures, he didn't have the fine motor to deal with the pages, so he ripped - that's what they are for right? We ripped many things together. Eventually we just looked at pages, then we read, then we pointed and he told me something of what they said or were. He liked pirates for a while and we played many pirate games, created ships and costumes...that really motivated him to say many new words! Use motivation to create games and play activities that bring you and your child together!!!
Q5. Who makes up your Son-Rise Program team? What part do you think that they play in preparing Riley for the rigors and unpredictability of the real world?
A5. Our team has expanded and disbanded many times and includes a variety of people. We have my daughter and myself and my husband...of course my other son who is only 5 to Riley's 4. So he is the number one therapist...he has taught Riley everything!!! He is the real motivator!! We have team members from Riley's school, this is the 3rd year we have had the director of the developmental preschool come to our home every week to play with Riley. We have had others that came in the past also. Real world happens here every day for us - his brother torments him him like any other brother, we go out now, we go to the library, the store we even visit school for 2 hours a week now. All this from the playroom activities - we have played store in there and helped Riley understand what happens after you are in a store - which was key for Riley - what the process is.... We go in we get this , we go stand in line we leave...practicing made that easy!
Q6. With most individuals forced to find treatments for autism on their own, do you think that programs like The Son-Rise Program would benefit from government assistance? Why or why not?
A6. I think it would be difficult to say that we couldn't use the ability for government support, the money would greatly help so many. But the ideas of The Son-Rise Program are so freeing.... how would a controlled entity not squelch that. Its so freeing being there....I'm not sure what would happen if they were "supported" by government funds.
Labels: Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Parents, Volunteers
Read more!
posted by MommyMelinda at
7:24 AM
0 Comments
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Inspiring words
Hey Son-Rise peeps!
I saw this on a card and loved it. I think these words represent a wonderful way to live our lives - taking joy in each moment and constantly challenging ourselves to try new things and PERSISTENCE! If we can bring all these qualities to our work with our special children, wouldn't that be amazing??
"Take surprise in each sunrise and comfort in each moon.
Move often, carrying your Home with you.
Climb mountains. Stroll beaches. Drive cars on busy streets
and sail bicycles
down
big
hills.
Love among the hate, when love is what you truly feel.
Suck strength from your anger, then let it go.
Scream at the ocean.
Run when the sign says walk.
Question authority and accept Change.
Fill your soul instead of your pockets.
Have lunch on busy sidewalks.
Dance alone in your kitchen.
Talk to everyone, including the soldiers inside your head.
Watch closely. Read something. Listen hard.
Smile in every mirror. Grow with each tear.
With a heart and a brain, loneliness is unacceptable.
HAVE FUN! Without maps or directions.
Cherish Happiness. Buy it if you have to, but give it away freely.
Wave at the uniformed at the unsavoury.
Keep them guessing, and praying, and hoping, and laughing.
Struggle, Fight, Try, Reach, Build, Learn,
Crawl, Invent, Rally, Fall, Get up again.
And if the heavens should happen to open,
offering transportation to even the smallest of dreams,
Ride the nearest cloud."
Let's model to our children the amazingness of a life fully lived, and increase our capacity to love every moment!
Smiles,
Jack xXx
I saw this on a card and loved it. I think these words represent a wonderful way to live our lives - taking joy in each moment and constantly challenging ourselves to try new things and PERSISTENCE! If we can bring all these qualities to our work with our special children, wouldn't that be amazing??
"Take surprise in each sunrise and comfort in each moon.
Move often, carrying your Home with you.
Climb mountains. Stroll beaches. Drive cars on busy streets
and sail bicycles
down
big
hills.
Love among the hate, when love is what you truly feel.
Suck strength from your anger, then let it go.
Scream at the ocean.
Run when the sign says walk.
Question authority and accept Change.
Fill your soul instead of your pockets.
Have lunch on busy sidewalks.
Dance alone in your kitchen.
Talk to everyone, including the soldiers inside your head.
Watch closely. Read something. Listen hard.
Smile in every mirror. Grow with each tear.
With a heart and a brain, loneliness is unacceptable.
HAVE FUN! Without maps or directions.
Cherish Happiness. Buy it if you have to, but give it away freely.
Wave at the uniformed at the unsavoury.
Keep them guessing, and praying, and hoping, and laughing.
Struggle, Fight, Try, Reach, Build, Learn,
Crawl, Invent, Rally, Fall, Get up again.
And if the heavens should happen to open,
offering transportation to even the smallest of dreams,
Ride the nearest cloud."
Let's model to our children the amazingness of a life fully lived, and increase our capacity to love every moment!
Smiles,
Jack xXx
Labels: Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Jack at
8:18 AM
0 Comments
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Want Some Inspiration?
I want to share a message that a Mom shared with me who has been doing The Son-Rise Program with her 32 year old son.
I had the pleasure of working with this lovely gentleman when he came to The Autism Treatment Center of America earlier this year. As well as having Autism, he also has Epilepsy and when he cam to our center was having seizure's every 2-3 days. Enjoy.
Hi becky thank you for your lovely words shak and me are very great full to have met you, and love the time we spent with you ,love you for ever and ever ,just would like to tell you how great shak is doing NO FITS!! For 15 days when shak looks as he is going to fit he is doing his own pressure point and pressing his upper lip how wonderful is that??...this is all down to all you lovely people at son-rise ..he is also doing new thing each week I could go on writing for hours but just let everyone know how great he's doing thank u again xxx
I had the pleasure of working with this lovely gentleman when he came to The Autism Treatment Center of America earlier this year. As well as having Autism, he also has Epilepsy and when he cam to our center was having seizure's every 2-3 days. Enjoy.
Hi becky thank you for your lovely words shak and me are very great full to have met you, and love the time we spent with you ,love you for ever and ever ,just would like to tell you how great shak is doing NO FITS!! For 15 days when shak looks as he is going to fit he is doing his own pressure point and pressing his upper lip how wonderful is that??...this is all down to all you lovely people at son-rise ..he is also doing new thing each week I could go on writing for hours but just let everyone know how great he's doing thank u again xxx
Labels: Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
6:16 AM
1 Comments
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
10 Variations for a Ball
Here are 10 things you can do with soccer balls in your Son-Rise Program Playroom with your special child.
1) Throw the ball up in the air and clap you hands while it's up. Start with one clap and work your way up, the higher the ball goes, the more claps you can fit in. The person with the most claps wins. This is also great for coordination and gross motor skills.
2) Pretend it's a satellite flying through the galaxy, experiment with having it land in different planets (e.g. tickling planet, singing planet, etc).
3) Set up goals around the room (using chairs or buckets), label each goal with a fun motivation (e.g. music, rides, etc) and take turns scoring goals and giving each other the action that the goal is labelled with.
4) Have a juggling competition.
5) Pretend that the balls are rare dinosaur eggs that are extinct and play catch with them, whatever you do, you must not drop them.
6) Play kick ball and make a fun sound effect whenever your partner kicks it (e.g. monkey impression, raspberry, etc).
7) Balance the ball on your head for as long as possible.
8) Hide them around the room and play a game of hotter and colder.
9) Keep them up in the air as long as you can.
10) Make a ball pop out from different places (e.g. from your sleeve, pretend to sneeze it out, etc).
1) Throw the ball up in the air and clap you hands while it's up. Start with one clap and work your way up, the higher the ball goes, the more claps you can fit in. The person with the most claps wins. This is also great for coordination and gross motor skills.
2) Pretend it's a satellite flying through the galaxy, experiment with having it land in different planets (e.g. tickling planet, singing planet, etc).
3) Set up goals around the room (using chairs or buckets), label each goal with a fun motivation (e.g. music, rides, etc) and take turns scoring goals and giving each other the action that the goal is labelled with.
4) Have a juggling competition.
5) Pretend that the balls are rare dinosaur eggs that are extinct and play catch with them, whatever you do, you must not drop them.
6) Play kick ball and make a fun sound effect whenever your partner kicks it (e.g. monkey impression, raspberry, etc).
7) Balance the ball on your head for as long as possible.
8) Hide them around the room and play a game of hotter and colder.
9) Keep them up in the air as long as you can.
10) Make a ball pop out from different places (e.g. from your sleeve, pretend to sneeze it out, etc).
Labels: Creativity, Fun and Games, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
8:16 AM
0 Comments
Friday, October 2, 2009
Amazing Talents
Hi Everyone,
I was recently sent these beautiful photos taken by someone with Autism. Working in The Son-Rise Program, I am continually inspired by the amazing and wonderful talents of our children. Enjoy!
TherapythorughLove.pps
I was recently sent these beautiful photos taken by someone with Autism. Working in The Son-Rise Program, I am continually inspired by the amazing and wonderful talents of our children. Enjoy!
TherapythorughLove.pps
Labels: Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
7:28 AM
1 Comments
Monday, September 28, 2009
10 Variations for a Blanket
Here are 10 things you can do with a blanket in your Son-Rise Program
playroom
1)Roll your child up in it and pretend he/she is a hot dog. Experiment with adding mustard, ketchup and squeezing him/her in it.
2)Pretend that the blanket is a whirlwind whooshing around the room and have fun getting blown away in it with your child.
3)Lay it out and have a tea party on it.
4)Take turns whisking the blanket out from underneath the plastic tea set and seeing who knocks over the least amount of cups, plates, etc.
5)Spread it out over two chairs and pretend it's a tent, go camping in the playroom with your child.
6)Pretend it is a beekeepers outfit and there are hundreds of tickling bees swarming around you.
7)Twist it around and around and pretend it's your pet snake. Have fun, naming it, feeding it, etc.
8)Hold two corners of it and flap it behind you like wings. You can be a butterfly, bat or ladybug.
9)Give your child a ride in it.
10)Pretend it is your hair and play a game of hairdressers. Have fun, tying it in a ponytail, waching it, etc.
playroom
1)Roll your child up in it and pretend he/she is a hot dog. Experiment with adding mustard, ketchup and squeezing him/her in it.
2)Pretend that the blanket is a whirlwind whooshing around the room and have fun getting blown away in it with your child.
3)Lay it out and have a tea party on it.
4)Take turns whisking the blanket out from underneath the plastic tea set and seeing who knocks over the least amount of cups, plates, etc.
5)Spread it out over two chairs and pretend it's a tent, go camping in the playroom with your child.
6)Pretend it is a beekeepers outfit and there are hundreds of tickling bees swarming around you.
7)Twist it around and around and pretend it's your pet snake. Have fun, naming it, feeding it, etc.
8)Hold two corners of it and flap it behind you like wings. You can be a butterfly, bat or ladybug.
9)Give your child a ride in it.
10)Pretend it is your hair and play a game of hairdressers. Have fun, tying it in a ponytail, waching it, etc.
Labels: Creativity, Fun and Games, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
10:20 AM
0 Comments
Monday, September 21, 2009
Limitless Possibilities
One of the many things that I love about The Son-Rise Program is that we do not put limits on our children. Even if a parent has been told by a professional "Your child will never walk", "Your child won't talk", "There is no hope", etc.
We believe in limitless possibilities for every child that we work with.
Check out this video about possibilities and be inspired.
We believe in limitless possibilities for every child that we work with.
Check out this video about possibilities and be inspired.
Labels: Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
11:30 AM
0 Comments
Sunday, September 20, 2009
10 Variations for Bubbles
In all my years of working with special children, I have seen many of them to be motivated by bubbles. One of the autism strategies we use at The Son-Rise Program is adding variations to activities to help our children be more flexible.
Here are 10 things you can do with bubbles to keep them interesting for both you and your child:
1) Pop them with different parts of your body (e.g. nose, elbow, belly).
2) Blow them on toy cars and pretend they are going through a car wash.
3) See who can blow the biggest bubble and measure it with a tape measure.
4) Use a fun sound effect each time your child pops one (e.g. a rooster sound, raspberry, etc)
5)Blow a bunch of bubbles and then use buckets to catch them in. It will be like soccer but you are bringing the goal to the bubble.
6)See if you can blow a bubble with your nose instead of your mouth.
7)Make bubble art by letting bubbles land on different colored card or construction paper.experiment with putting a drop of food coloring into the bubble mixture.
8)Play keep the bubble in the air for as ong as possible by blowing it around.
9)Have a bubble race by blowing a bubble and holding it on the wand and running across the room. The winner completes the race without the bubble popping.
10)See if you can blow a bubble down a toilet paper tube without it popping.
Here are 10 things you can do with bubbles to keep them interesting for both you and your child:
1) Pop them with different parts of your body (e.g. nose, elbow, belly).
2) Blow them on toy cars and pretend they are going through a car wash.
3) See who can blow the biggest bubble and measure it with a tape measure.
4) Use a fun sound effect each time your child pops one (e.g. a rooster sound, raspberry, etc)
5)Blow a bunch of bubbles and then use buckets to catch them in. It will be like soccer but you are bringing the goal to the bubble.
6)See if you can blow a bubble with your nose instead of your mouth.
7)Make bubble art by letting bubbles land on different colored card or construction paper.experiment with putting a drop of food coloring into the bubble mixture.
8)Play keep the bubble in the air for as ong as possible by blowing it around.
9)Have a bubble race by blowing a bubble and holding it on the wand and running across the room. The winner completes the race without the bubble popping.
10)See if you can blow a bubble down a toilet paper tube without it popping.
Labels: Fun and Games, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
12:42 PM
0 Comments
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
10 Variations for a Therapy Ball
We are working with a child this week who loves to roll on the therapy balls that we have here in the Son-Rise Program playroom.
Here are 10 creative things you can do with a therapy ball in your playroom.
1) Balance on it without your feet on the floor for as long as you can.
2) Play catch with it (with your feet).
3) Pretend it is a giant boulder tumbling down a rock that you have to run from.
4) Bounce off the Walls with it in your arms.
5) Pretend it is a giant wart that has grown on your face and cast different spells on it to try and make it disappear.
6) Use it as a gigantic bowling ball.
7) Lie on the floor and try and roll it across your body from your feet up to your head without it falling off.
8) Draw a face on it with dry erase markers and give it a name. Then let have it play in your games as a third friend.
9) Have a competition to see how high you can each bounce and mark the highest bounce on the wall with artist's tape.
10) Play a game of giant ping pong using frying pans as bats.
Here are 10 creative things you can do with a therapy ball in your playroom.
1) Balance on it without your feet on the floor for as long as you can.
2) Play catch with it (with your feet).
3) Pretend it is a giant boulder tumbling down a rock that you have to run from.
4) Bounce off the Walls with it in your arms.
5) Pretend it is a giant wart that has grown on your face and cast different spells on it to try and make it disappear.
6) Use it as a gigantic bowling ball.
7) Lie on the floor and try and roll it across your body from your feet up to your head without it falling off.
8) Draw a face on it with dry erase markers and give it a name. Then let have it play in your games as a third friend.
9) Have a competition to see how high you can each bounce and mark the highest bounce on the wall with artist's tape.
10) Play a game of giant ping pong using frying pans as bats.
Labels: Creativity, Fun and Games, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
6:54 PM
0 Comments
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Choosing Love
Yesterday I was with my little friend David who I volunteer with. One of the Autism Strategies we use at The Son-Rise Program is joining a child's repetitious and exclusive behaviors in order to bond with them, accept where they are and build a rapport.
I was joining him by placing a wooden jigsaw puzzle in and out of a plastic in tray, again and again and again while saying "No thank you, put it back on the shelf". We did this simple action for a whole hour.
Now this activity was not an activity tht I would have chosen to do to relax in my spare time but for David, it was something he loved, therefore every time I placed my puzzle inside my own box, I decided to grow my love for David and the activity bigger and bigger.
I was rewarded at the end of the hour by David coming over to me and sweetly pushing my hair back off my forhead with his adorable little hands, looking at me with his beautiful smile and then wanting to write and spell with me for the following hour.
Just something I wanted to share with you.
I was joining him by placing a wooden jigsaw puzzle in and out of a plastic in tray, again and again and again while saying "No thank you, put it back on the shelf". We did this simple action for a whole hour.
Now this activity was not an activity tht I would have chosen to do to relax in my spare time but for David, it was something he loved, therefore every time I placed my puzzle inside my own box, I decided to grow my love for David and the activity bigger and bigger.
I was rewarded at the end of the hour by David coming over to me and sweetly pushing my hair back off my forhead with his adorable little hands, looking at me with his beautiful smile and then wanting to write and spell with me for the following hour.
Just something I wanted to share with you.
Labels: Attitude, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
6:47 PM
1 Comments
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
A Game Idea
Hello Everyone,
Click on the video below to see a game idea. This game is designed to encourage your children to ask questions of their friends.
Love Kate
Click on the video below to see a game idea. This game is designed to encourage your children to ask questions of their friends.
Love Kate
Labels: Creativity, Environment, Inspiration, Kate
Read more!
posted by Kate Wilde at
5:20 AM
0 Comments
Thursday, August 20, 2009
My Wish Came True
Last Christmas, during a team meeting for David, an amazing little boy that I volunteer with. His Mom, Kathy asked us to make a wish for something that we wanted for David. My wish was for him to say my name.
In the months between then and now, David has made such incredible progress and a few weeks ago I heard from Kathy that he had said "It's Becky!" as my car pulled in the drive.
I was spending some time with David in their swimming pool last weekend and during the 4 hours that I was with him, we were playing together, alternating from me jumping in the pool for him and him jumping into my arms.
At one point, as I was helping David swim to the edge of the swimming pool, when he turned his body around to face me, looked at me with a huge grin and said "Becky?" I was floored, my wish came true!
Since then, his family has reported that when he is in the playroom and he hears someone come in the front door, he says "Becky?" How fantastic is that?
Make a wish for your child today and believe it will come true, then wait and see what happens.
In the months between then and now, David has made such incredible progress and a few weeks ago I heard from Kathy that he had said "It's Becky!" as my car pulled in the drive.
I was spending some time with David in their swimming pool last weekend and during the 4 hours that I was with him, we were playing together, alternating from me jumping in the pool for him and him jumping into my arms.
At one point, as I was helping David swim to the edge of the swimming pool, when he turned his body around to face me, looked at me with a huge grin and said "Becky?" I was floored, my wish came true!
Since then, his family has reported that when he is in the playroom and he hears someone come in the front door, he says "Becky?" How fantastic is that?
Make a wish for your child today and believe it will come true, then wait and see what happens.
Labels: Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
5:59 PM
0 Comments
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Going For Our Wants
All around me there are creatures going for their wants. Yesterday I was walking with my dog on the farm where I live and he was constantly chasing something. If it wasn't deer then it was rabbits or birds. He scaled under an electric fence, into streams and through bushes relentlessly to try and reach them. I was amazed at the way he went quickly towards his wants.
I picked some wild flowers and when I returned home I noticed that there was a bright yellow spider, nearly the exact same color as the flowers, hidden on one of the flowers. It had cast a web and was catching insects that were attracted to the flowers for it's dinner. It was so camouflaged, I nearly missed it. I took the flowers outside and tried to tap the spider away with a stick. It continued to move around the flowers and hide each time I tapped it. I was amazed at the persistence of the spider to stay on the flower by it's web.
As humans, we are taught not to go for our wants, because we might fail in getting them or be unhappy when we don't get them. Underneath that, we are operating from a belief that not getting what we want is bad so therefore we hold ourselves back from wanting too much.
I don't believe that the spider was unhappy about not getting his wants, nor did he give up and not go for them. I don't believe that my dog is unhappy about not getting them either, he simply chases the rabbit and is incredibly present, he is focused on what he wants, and if he doesn't get it (he never does by the way), he just tries again with the next animal.
The Son-Rise Program playroom is one place that I am free to want as much as possible. I want the children to look at me, talk to me and play with me. I am not attached to these wants nor scared about not getting them and go after them persistently and in many different ways.
We can learn a lot about wanting from animals, insects and babies, they move through the world, fearlessly going toward what they want and moving away from what they don't want because they are are not operating from limiting beliefs.
I picked some wild flowers and when I returned home I noticed that there was a bright yellow spider, nearly the exact same color as the flowers, hidden on one of the flowers. It had cast a web and was catching insects that were attracted to the flowers for it's dinner. It was so camouflaged, I nearly missed it. I took the flowers outside and tried to tap the spider away with a stick. It continued to move around the flowers and hide each time I tapped it. I was amazed at the persistence of the spider to stay on the flower by it's web.
As humans, we are taught not to go for our wants, because we might fail in getting them or be unhappy when we don't get them. Underneath that, we are operating from a belief that not getting what we want is bad so therefore we hold ourselves back from wanting too much.
I don't believe that the spider was unhappy about not getting his wants, nor did he give up and not go for them. I don't believe that my dog is unhappy about not getting them either, he simply chases the rabbit and is incredibly present, he is focused on what he wants, and if he doesn't get it (he never does by the way), he just tries again with the next animal.
The Son-Rise Program playroom is one place that I am free to want as much as possible. I want the children to look at me, talk to me and play with me. I am not attached to these wants nor scared about not getting them and go after them persistently and in many different ways.
We can learn a lot about wanting from animals, insects and babies, they move through the world, fearlessly going toward what they want and moving away from what they don't want because they are are not operating from limiting beliefs.
Labels: Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
8:15 PM
1 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
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Unconditional Love
My husband and I recently got a new dog Hendrix who is from a broken home. He is a sweet dog and has some issues with trusting people. I would guess he has been abused by a man because he still growls and cowers when my husband comes into the house, although we have had him for 4 weeks now.
He is like my shadow, following me around wherever I go and not letting me out of his sight. The reason I believe that he is responding to me is because I have decided to give him complete and unconditional love. Just like the children that I work with using The Son-Rise Program .
Even at the beginning when Hendrix was wary of me and nervous of everything, I would focus on loving him in every moment. I believe that my husband loves him only when he gets his affection in return and therefore Hendrix is keeping his guard up to protect himself.
When you love unconditionally, it not only feels good but it is more likely that that person/thing will open up to you because there is no expectations. Give it a try.
He is like my shadow, following me around wherever I go and not letting me out of his sight. The reason I believe that he is responding to me is because I have decided to give him complete and unconditional love. Just like the children that I work with using The Son-Rise Program .
Even at the beginning when Hendrix was wary of me and nervous of everything, I would focus on loving him in every moment. I believe that my husband loves him only when he gets his affection in return and therefore Hendrix is keeping his guard up to protect himself.
When you love unconditionally, it not only feels good but it is more likely that that person/thing will open up to you because there is no expectations. Give it a try.
Labels: Attitude, Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
7:12 PM
1 Comments
Monday, August 3, 2009
The Man in the Glass
I have learnt many precious things working at The Autism Treatment Center of America. Like how to truly love myself. Learning to love myself has helped me love hundreds of children in the most profound way. Here is a great poem about loving yourself. Have you taken time to love yourself today?
The Man In The Glass
Anonymous
When you get what you want in your struggle for self
And the world makes you king for a day,
Just go to the mirror and look at yourself
And see what that man has to say.
For it isn't your father or mother or wife
Whose judgment upon you must pass.
The fellow whose verdict counts most in you life
Is the one staring back from the glass.
You may be like Jack Horner and chisel a plum
And think you're a wonderful guy.
But the man in the glass says you're only a bum
If you can't look him straight in the eye.
He's the fellow to please-never mind all the rest,
For he's with you clear to the end.
And you've passed your most dangerous, difficult test
If the man in the glass is your friend.
You may fool the whole world down the pathway of years
And get pats on the back as you pass.
But your final reward will be heartache and tears
If you've cheated the man in the glass.
The Man In The Glass
Anonymous
When you get what you want in your struggle for self
And the world makes you king for a day,
Just go to the mirror and look at yourself
And see what that man has to say.
For it isn't your father or mother or wife
Whose judgment upon you must pass.
The fellow whose verdict counts most in you life
Is the one staring back from the glass.
You may be like Jack Horner and chisel a plum
And think you're a wonderful guy.
But the man in the glass says you're only a bum
If you can't look him straight in the eye.
He's the fellow to please-never mind all the rest,
For he's with you clear to the end.
And you've passed your most dangerous, difficult test
If the man in the glass is your friend.
You may fool the whole world down the pathway of years
And get pats on the back as you pass.
But your final reward will be heartache and tears
If you've cheated the man in the glass.
Labels: Inspiration, Personal Growth, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
3:18 PM
1 Comments
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Let's hear it for siblings!
This week in The Son-Rise Program Intensive, we are working with a gorgeous little boy and his family from Ecuador. His 12 year old Sister also came with his parents and is extremely dedicated to helping her little Brother.
Last week, we had a 16 year old sibling come too to help her 13 year old Brother. Let's hear it for all the amazing siblings out there for wanting to love and help their special siblings in such a meaningful and powerful way.
Last week, we had a 16 year old sibling come too to help her 13 year old Brother. Let's hear it for all the amazing siblings out there for wanting to love and help their special siblings in such a meaningful and powerful way.
Labels: Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
6:08 AM
0 Comments
Friday, July 24, 2009
Listen, do you want to know a secret?
I have just had an amazing experience. I was working my last session in The Son-Rise Program playroom with a delightful 13 year old boy. The way this lovely boy communicates is in a very deep low voice and very fast. Often you will hear him say clear words in amongst a string of other low and deep sounds if you only listen.
My training in The Son-Rise Program has helped me to listen with new ears. That comes from a deep desire to love and connect with an autistic person.
After joining him solidly for 10 minutes (he was picking hair off his legs and I pretended to pick hair off my legs too), he looked at me, said "I love you" and then walked over to me and gently took both my hands.
At the end of my session I said to him "Goodby Larry, I had an amazing time with you!" to which he replied "Me too, goodbye". It's all there, if you just listen!
My training in The Son-Rise Program has helped me to listen with new ears. That comes from a deep desire to love and connect with an autistic person.
After joining him solidly for 10 minutes (he was picking hair off his legs and I pretended to pick hair off my legs too), he looked at me, said "I love you" and then walked over to me and gently took both my hands.
At the end of my session I said to him "Goodby Larry, I had an amazing time with you!" to which he replied "Me too, goodbye". It's all there, if you just listen!
Labels: Inspiration, Joining, Language
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
9:15 AM
1 Comments
Thursday, July 16, 2009
What are we capable of?
I did the Son-Rise Intensive Program 19 years ago when I was just 22 years old. There Samahria said to me:
"You can do much much more that you think you are capable of".
At the time I just stared at her in a "22 year old" kind of way, but her words stuck with me all these years and has helped me through times when I have felt overwhelmed with my life.
Today I spoke with a Father who asked me whether running a full time program was "Too much" for his daughter. My answer for that as always is our children being Autistic take many breaks throughout the day by isming, we are trying to inspire them to take less breaks.
It got me thinking again about what Samahria said to me all those years ago, we never think that we are "loved" too much, "celebrated"too Much", "play" too much are "kissed " too often. When when we think about "working", or "being challenged" we often add "too much" into the equation.
So today I feel inspired, and want to say to anyone of you lovely Son-Rise Parents out there who are feeling overwhelmed or who are judging themselves today.
You are capable of great things.
You are capable of more than you think.
You are GREAT!
No matter what!!
With much love
Kate
"You can do much much more that you think you are capable of".
At the time I just stared at her in a "22 year old" kind of way, but her words stuck with me all these years and has helped me through times when I have felt overwhelmed with my life.
Today I spoke with a Father who asked me whether running a full time program was "Too much" for his daughter. My answer for that as always is our children being Autistic take many breaks throughout the day by isming, we are trying to inspire them to take less breaks.
It got me thinking again about what Samahria said to me all those years ago, we never think that we are "loved" too much, "celebrated"too Much", "play" too much are "kissed " too often. When when we think about "working", or "being challenged" we often add "too much" into the equation.
So today I feel inspired, and want to say to anyone of you lovely Son-Rise Parents out there who are feeling overwhelmed or who are judging themselves today.
You are capable of great things.
You are capable of more than you think.
You are GREAT!
No matter what!!
With much love
Kate
Labels: Attitude, Inspiration, Kate
Read more!
posted by Kate Wilde at
12:04 PM
1 Comments
Friday, July 10, 2009
Self-Love
Hey guys!
I have had a beautiful learning experience this week (isn't it wonderful - no matter where we are with our experience, there is always more to learn), and it's all to do with LOVE.
I know that when I go in the playroom, I totally love the children unconditionally - that I can create within myself that love in an instant, even if I have never met that child before. And I believe that this love helps me connect and desire to help every special person I play with.
Now here's the interesting part... Why, if I can love the children unconditionally, do I not always give myself the same gift? I know I can love in an instant, with no attachments, so why do I not always love MYSELF in this way? I have looked at this, and I realise that I believe creating love for another person serves a purpose. So, as a Child Facilitator can I find a purpose in being self-loving when facilitating autism recovery?
This week I have conducted an experiment. Before going in the playroom I have set aside 10 minutes to create for myself the level of love I feel for the child and I enter the playroom feeling that love for the child AND myself. The result? My love for the child actually DEEPENS, since I have no needs for them to act in a particular way for me to feel great about myself. My celebrations come from an even deeper well of love and my entire experience in the playroom is one of connected, profoundly loving joy. Not bad huh?
Self-love really DOES serve a purpose. When we are loving of ourselves we grow and deepen every part of our ability to love others, and that is the true essence of The Son-Rise Program.
With love (for myself AND all of you!!)
Jack
I have had a beautiful learning experience this week (isn't it wonderful - no matter where we are with our experience, there is always more to learn), and it's all to do with LOVE.
I know that when I go in the playroom, I totally love the children unconditionally - that I can create within myself that love in an instant, even if I have never met that child before. And I believe that this love helps me connect and desire to help every special person I play with.
Now here's the interesting part... Why, if I can love the children unconditionally, do I not always give myself the same gift? I know I can love in an instant, with no attachments, so why do I not always love MYSELF in this way? I have looked at this, and I realise that I believe creating love for another person serves a purpose. So, as a Child Facilitator can I find a purpose in being self-loving when facilitating autism recovery?
This week I have conducted an experiment. Before going in the playroom I have set aside 10 minutes to create for myself the level of love I feel for the child and I enter the playroom feeling that love for the child AND myself. The result? My love for the child actually DEEPENS, since I have no needs for them to act in a particular way for me to feel great about myself. My celebrations come from an even deeper well of love and my entire experience in the playroom is one of connected, profoundly loving joy. Not bad huh?
Self-love really DOES serve a purpose. When we are loving of ourselves we grow and deepen every part of our ability to love others, and that is the true essence of The Son-Rise Program.
With love (for myself AND all of you!!)
Jack
Labels: Attitude, Inspiration, Personal Growth
Read more!
posted by Jack at
3:57 PM
1 Comments
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Belief and Hope
Wow.
Click on the title of this blogg to see the video.
This video has inspired me so much! Every time I do something that is difficult for myself and have the urge to give up trying, I think of this man and it helps me to push through my walls.
If he can surf, then surely I can hold my arms above my head in a yoga pose for longer than I think I can!!!
I think of what he said about being 8 years old and having no hope or belief in himself, and cannot help but think that if his parents had run a Son-Rise Program for him when he was younger he would have been surrounded my people who believed that he could do anything that he wanted to do, and helped him believe that too.
Here in The Son-Rise Program, not only do we think it is important that we as parents and therapists believe in the limitless possibilities for our children on The Autism Spectrum, but we think it is important that our children also believe in themselves.
When it comes down to it belief and hope are the two most important ingredients in all learning and all growth.
I think to myself, how am I going to finish, I guess that is up to me and me alone.
Love to all of you who are reading this!
Click on the title of this blogg to see the video.
This video has inspired me so much! Every time I do something that is difficult for myself and have the urge to give up trying, I think of this man and it helps me to push through my walls.
If he can surf, then surely I can hold my arms above my head in a yoga pose for longer than I think I can!!!
I think of what he said about being 8 years old and having no hope or belief in himself, and cannot help but think that if his parents had run a Son-Rise Program for him when he was younger he would have been surrounded my people who believed that he could do anything that he wanted to do, and helped him believe that too.
Here in The Son-Rise Program, not only do we think it is important that we as parents and therapists believe in the limitless possibilities for our children on The Autism Spectrum, but we think it is important that our children also believe in themselves.
When it comes down to it belief and hope are the two most important ingredients in all learning and all growth.
I think to myself, how am I going to finish, I guess that is up to me and me alone.
Love to all of you who are reading this!
Labels: Inspiration, Kate
Read more!
posted by Kate Wilde at
6:03 AM
0 Comments
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Anything is Possible!
This video is so inspiring. There is nothing that this lady can't do. She is a true "Force of Nature". Here at The Son-Rise Program, we teach parents of their special children to be "Forces of Nature" and we believe that there is nothing that our children can't do when they put their mind to it. Enjoy!
Labels: Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
4:40 PM
0 Comments
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Heaven's Here on Earth
I was listening to Tracy Chapman recently and the lyrics of the following song reminded me of something I have learned from working at The Option Institute. That we see the world the way we want to see it. If we see it as beautiful, miraculous and full of hope, that's how our experience of the world will be.
If we see it as sad, tragic, and hopeless, then that's how our world will be to us. When I work with children and adults using The Son-Rise Program, I choose to see them as amazing, unique and capable, and indeed that's what they become to me and to anyone else who chooses to see it. Enjoy!
Heaven's Here On Earth
You can look to the stars in search of the answers
Look for God and life on distant planets
Have your faith in the ever after
While each of us holds inside the map to the labyrinth
And heaven's here on earth
We are the spirit the collective conscience
We create the pain and the suffering and the beauty in this world
Heaven's here on earth
In our faith in humankind
In our respect for what is earthly
In our unfaltering belief in peace and love and understanding
I've seen and met angels wearing the disguise
Of ordinary people leading ordinary lives
Filled with love, compassion, forgiveness and sacrifice
Heaven's in our hearts
In our faith in humankind
In our respect for what is earthly
In our unfaltering belief in peace and love and understanding
Look around
Believe in what you see
The kingdom is at hand
The promised land is at your feet
We can and will become what we aspire to be
If Heaven's here on earth
If we have faith in humankind
And respect for what is earthly
And an unfaltering belief that truth is divinity
And heaven's here on earth
I've seen spirits
I've met angels
Touched creations beautiful and wondrous
I've been places where I question all I think I know
But I believe, I believe, I believe this could be heaven
We are born inside the gates with the power to create life
And to take it away
The world is our temple
The world is our church
Heaven's here on earth
If we have faith in human kind
And respect for what is earthly
And an unfaltering belief
In peace and love and understanding
This could be heaven here on earth
If we see it as sad, tragic, and hopeless, then that's how our world will be to us. When I work with children and adults using The Son-Rise Program, I choose to see them as amazing, unique and capable, and indeed that's what they become to me and to anyone else who chooses to see it. Enjoy!
Heaven's Here On Earth
You can look to the stars in search of the answers
Look for God and life on distant planets
Have your faith in the ever after
While each of us holds inside the map to the labyrinth
And heaven's here on earth
We are the spirit the collective conscience
We create the pain and the suffering and the beauty in this world
Heaven's here on earth
In our faith in humankind
In our respect for what is earthly
In our unfaltering belief in peace and love and understanding
I've seen and met angels wearing the disguise
Of ordinary people leading ordinary lives
Filled with love, compassion, forgiveness and sacrifice
Heaven's in our hearts
In our faith in humankind
In our respect for what is earthly
In our unfaltering belief in peace and love and understanding
Look around
Believe in what you see
The kingdom is at hand
The promised land is at your feet
We can and will become what we aspire to be
If Heaven's here on earth
If we have faith in humankind
And respect for what is earthly
And an unfaltering belief that truth is divinity
And heaven's here on earth
I've seen spirits
I've met angels
Touched creations beautiful and wondrous
I've been places where I question all I think I know
But I believe, I believe, I believe this could be heaven
We are born inside the gates with the power to create life
And to take it away
The world is our temple
The world is our church
Heaven's here on earth
If we have faith in human kind
And respect for what is earthly
And an unfaltering belief
In peace and love and understanding
This could be heaven here on earth
Labels: Inspiration, Son-Rise Program Staff
Read more!
posted by Becky Damgaard, Son-Rise Program Teacher at
1:02 PM
1 Comments
Copyright 1998-2008. The Option Institute & Fellowship. All rights reserved.