Helping Your Child with Autism Thrive

THRIVE HELPING YOUR CHILD W I T H AUTISM

Tips for helping your child overcome their challenges and lead a successful life.

WORDS BY JENNIFER THOMPSPON

When a child is placed in the arms of their parents, hopes and dreams for the child’s future begin to form. We want what is best for our children in all areas of life. As parents, we want to teach our children the skills they need in a supportive and nurturing environment with the hopes that they will not only learn and grow, but also thrive.

When a child is diagnosed with autism, a parent may wonder: What’s next? What does this mean for my child? They may begin to question what they can incorporate into their child’s daily routine that will provide safety, structure and guidance, so that they can live their best life.

Reevaluate your child’s educational needs yearly. “All children, typical or not, need different things to thrive,” says Kristin Tennyson, head of school at Linden Grove School in Cincinnati. “Each year, as parents, we should reevaluate what our child’s current needs are and what they will need to be successful for the upcoming school year. This might mean extra or less support, a change in program, additional tutoring, helping to facilitate playdates and more. No matter where your child attends school, they should always be challenged and they should always be thriving academically, socially and therapeutically.”

Take your child on errands with you. For some parents, the idea of running errands with their children can seem less than appealing, and this can be especially true if your child has unpredictable behaviors. Don’t let this stop you from taking them along. Consider putting one or two outings a month on the calendar. You don’t have to do every grocery trip together, but allowing your child to periodically join you will help them have a better understanding of what goes on in the world.

Strive for independence. Anyone who has gone through teaching their child to tie a shoe knows it is much quicker, and less painful, to just do it for them. As parents, when we are constantly doing things for our children, we are not allowing them the privilege of learning how to do things for themselves. It may take a while to get there, but when your child accomplishes tasks on their own, they will feel empowered and ready to face future obstacles.

Create a consistent routine. Structure and consistency can be very important for children with autism spectrum disorder. Tennyson suggests that parents consider using the following to incorporate more structure in their child’s day:

· schedules that include pictures as well as words

· consistent routines for completing homework, going to bed, waking up, etc.

· checklists for tasks and routines

· timers and reminders for changing activities when needed

Also, ask your child’s school for copies of the visuals that they used to help with communication and behavior, such as stop signs, wait cards, bathroom cards and others.

Never limit your expectations of your child’s abilities. By trying new things, parents will learn what works for their child. And, remember, just because something doesn’t work well the first time, doesn’t mean it can’t be tried again at some point in the future.

Get help when needed. Therapists, specialists and medical professionals can all help your child learn the skills needed to thrive in their environment. Consider having a caregiver come in at different times during the month to help alleviate some of the workload and give you a break. Put these appointments on the calendar to be sure your child is expecting these visits.

Connect with other families with children on the autism spectrum. In our world of social media, connecting with families is easier than ever before. Consider joining a support group, or connecting with a group on Facebook or another social media platform.

“There are a variety of places that offer play groups,” says Mary Helen Richer, executive director of the Autism Society Greater Cincinnati. “For example, the Autism Society of Greater Cincinnati offers monthly recreational programs for all ages where children can interact with other kids and parents, and also have the opportunity to connect with each other, as well.”

The Autism Society of Greater Cincinnati also offers a helpline for families to ask questions, find information and access resources. They are happy to connect families to the various other playgroups, support groups and resources in the community. For more information, call 513-561-2300 or email info@autismcincy.org.

Parents desire for their children to learn, grow, develop and thrive. Thankfully, there are plenty of tools and resources available for parents to help equip their children and encourage them in their journey toward living their best life.

What's the Magic of Camp?

Why are people so loyal to their sleep away camps? What exactly happens at camp that makes people rhapsodize about the experience thirty or forty years later? Whenever I tell people that I am curious about the camp experience, the stories start to pour out. “I loved my camp,” they say in a dreamy voice.

What is it about the summer camp experience — just a few weeks away for perhaps two or three seasons — that goes so deep under their skin? As a psychologist, I am curious about the mystery of camp. What’s the magic ingredient?

After a whole summer of sitting in on campfires, cabin chats and dining hall sing-alongs; after laughing through a lot of silly campfire skits; after watching kids compete in color wars and canoeing contests and stage first-rate productions of Broadway musicals — I’m closer to an answer.

First, it is absolutely magical for kids to be away from their parents. The sweetest, most satisfying moments of childhood (think back to your own life) are almost always when you are away from your parents. Children are suddenly free to face challenges and accomplishments that are theirs alone — experiences that don’t have to be run through the parental cognitive-ruminativemetabolic-judicial machinery.

Secondly, the relationship between campers and counselors is pure gold. The younger kids love and admire the counselors, and that respect brings out the best in young adults. They are at their most responsible, compassionate and loving when they are put in charge of younger children, and the younger children knock themselves out trying to impress these young demi-gods.

Finally, if camps are successful, they create a private world with its own rules and rituals and magic. Deep down, all children want to have their own adventures with no (apparent) safety net. Suburban life and school don’t provide children with much of an arena for adventure or their imaginations. Camps have the ability to create that world that belongs only to a child and his or her friends. Now that is magic.

Adapted from “What’s the Magic of Camp?” originally published in the September 2010 issue of Camp e-News. Reprinted by permission of the American Camp Association. ©2010, American Camping Association, Inc.

CP SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2020

DAY CAMPS A+ STEM and Fashion Design Summer Camps 6228 Whileaway Dr, Loveland, OH 45140, Phone: (513) 225-8545, Contact: Evan Osgood, Email: info@stemsforyouth.org, stemsforyouth.org Dates: June, July, August • Ages: 6-16 • Gender of Campers: All genders Activities: Programming Drones, Building and Programming Robots, Designing Dresses you can wear, Learn to write Essays with Fortnite and more! Yes, we can make those video games and hobbies educational! This summer your K-12th grader can transform from consumer to creator by learning new STEAM skills while having fun! (STEAM=Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math). At STEMs For Youth, our goal is to use platforms kids love as a conduit to teach them language arts, coding, math, teamwork and other life skills! From Robotics to Fashion Design to Fortnite, we have lots of exciting classes that teach 21st Century Skills and problem solving through hands-on, creative activities. Discover the power of STEAM while making friends and having fun.

Baldwin Music Education Center Summer Programs 3799 Hyde Park Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208, Contact: Rachel Kramer, Phone: 513-351-1109, Email: info@Baldwin MusicEduCenter.com, baldwin musiceducenter.com Dates: June-August with flex-terms and options • Ages/Grades: Preschool Music Classes for Ages 6-months to 4-yrs & Keyboard Camps for ages 5-10 Summer is more exciting with music classes to brighten each week! Age-specific, specially-designed music classes engage students from the minute they walk through the door. Singing, playing, keyboard time, crafts and more open the world of music to every child. 55+ years experience, trained group music teachers, friendly neighborhood, ample parking and family discounts.

Benton Farm's Adventure Days 11896 Old Lexington Pike Walton KY 41094, Contact; Mary Marcum/Director, Phone: (859) 485-7000, Email: bentonfamilyfarm@aol.com, Bentonfarm.com Dates: June 8-July 17 weekly Mon to Fri (except no camp June 29 to July 3) Experience Adventure Days a unique day camp on the farm. Our 16 th year of providing a hands on working farm/animals experience. Children get their own furry farm animal for the week to learn to care and take care of. We include farm chores, horseback riding lessons, archery, fishing, nature discovery, games, gardening, crafts, team building opportunities. If your child loves the outdoors and animals with everyday new adventures then check out our farm camp.

Camp at the J 8485 Ridge Rd, Cincinnati, Ohio 45236, Contact: Anne Goldstein, Phone: 513.722.7241, Email: daycamp@ mayersonjcc.org, mayersonjcc.org/ campatthej Dates: June 1 - August 14 • Hours: 9:30am-3:30pm *Extended Care Available • Ages: 4-14 Activities: Archery, sports, arts and crafts, drama, music, Israeli culture, swimming, and color wars At Camp at the J, kids can experience the best of summer. From swim lessons to archery, sports to arts & crafts, kids will create memories and form friendships to last a lifetime. Camp at the J’s inclusive camp offers camp for every kid! Traditional day camp provides all the fun that makes camp a summertime staple, with flexible weekly options to fit your schedule. A wide range of specialty camps, including arts, science, theater, horseback riding, sports and much more. Camp encourages kids to pursue their interests, making summer an exciting and positive developmental experience. Sign up today for a summer to remember!

Camp Chabad University of Cincinnati CRC 2820 Bearcat Way, Cincinnati, OH 45221, Kiddie Camp Facility: 7560 Reinhold Drive, Phone: 513-731-5111, Email: info@ campchabad.org, CampChabad.org Dates: June 22nd - August 1st, boys and girls ages 2 years to 13 years A camp that has it all! Your child will experience, Sports, Nature, Art, Music, Character Growth,Onsite rockclimbing, pickle ball, Field Trips, Free Swim, Swimming Lessons. With 200,000 square feet of air conditioned space , no matter the weather there is always something to do! Children can visit the Arlitt Playscape a hidden gem with plants, mini stream, old fashioned water pump, butterflies, flowers, and play structure. Nurturing dedicated staff will look after your kids. “mix and match” to fit YOUR schedule or sign up for all 6 weeks. Camp T-shirt and most field trips included. ACA Accredited. Cincinnati’s Premier Jewish Day Camp. Kiddie Campers enjoy Soccer shots, music, tiny tennis, gymnastics, story time, crafts, splash play, and more. Half day option/ Before care and after care available.

Camp Invention Multiple locations throughout Cincinnati, Phone: (800) 968-4332, email: camp invention@invent.org, invent.org/camp Dates: Find locations and dates at invent. org/camp • Ages: Entering grades K-6 Imaginations will soar in the all-new Camp Invention® program, Elevate! Campers in grades K-6 will collaborate in hands-on STEM activities exploring concepts of flight, Earth’s ecosystems and sports innovations! Visit invent.org/camp or call 800-968-4332 to register. Use promo code LOCAL25 to save $25 (expires 3/31) or LOCAL15 to save $15 (expires 5/12).

CCM Preparatory 3860 Corbett Center Cincinnati, OH 45221-0236, Phone: 513-556-2595, Email: ccmprep@uc.edu, ccm.uc.edu/ prep/summer Dates: Camps from June 1-August 7 • Ages: Ages 4 to Adult

If you’re looking for fun, immersive and interactive summer arts experiences, come to CCM! Attractions include a variety of programs in Music, Dance, and Theatre Arts for students to make friends and explore new skills. At CCM Prep, all students can explore their artistic interests in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

Central Montessori Academy's Summer Camps 1904 Springdale Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45231, Contact: Denise Ott/ Admission Director, Phone: 513-742-5800, Email: info@centralmontessoriacademy.com, centralmontessoriacademy.com/ our-programs/summer-enrichment/ Dates: June 1st - August 7th Blast off into space, explore an underwater world, and much more in between all in one summer at Central Montessori Academy’s summer camp! Camp is for children ages three to six and led by trained teaching staff who want to make your child’s summer exciting and educational too. A day at camp includes time exploring in the Montessori classroom, outdoor play on the campus’ natural playground and wooded area, and activities centered around a different weekly theme (see the CMA website for each week’s theme). Full and half day options available as well as extended care before and after camp hours.

Children’s Meeting House Montessori School Summer Camp 927 O’Bannonville Rd, Loveland, OH 45140, Phone: 513-683-4757, Email: office@ cmhschool.com, cmhschool.com Dates: June 15-19, June 22-26, July 13-17, July 20-24 Visit our website to see the Summer Camp Programs CMH has to offer your family this year. Our camps offer a variety of Arts, Crafts, Nature, Science, Drama, and fun activities for children ages 3-12 on our beautiful 7+ acre campus. Camps are led by experienced CMH Staff, who are eager to share their passion for learning and having fun with our

Chess Plus Summer Camp 555 Albion Avenue, Glendale, Ohio 45246, Contact: Steven Iyoha, Phone: (513) 620-6207, Email: Steve@positivechess. com, positivechess.com Dates: June 15th-19th, June 22nd-26th, July 6th-10th, July 13th-17th • Hours: Full Day: 9am to 4pm • Ages: 6 to 15 Activities: Chess, Robotics, Circuit Building, Basketball, Hip Hop Dance, Lego Derby Racing, Family Games, Movies & Popcorn and Fortnite dance off Chess activities in the morning and an active program in the afternoon. Two afternoon options: "Engineering"; Our engaging STEM program where campers build robotic creations, circuits and more. "Movement"; Our energizing program which includes dance, basketball, lego derby, family games, movies & popcorn and a fortnite dance off.

Cincinnati Art Museum Summer Camp 953 Eden park Dr., Cincinnati OH 45202, Phone: (513) 721-2787, Email: CAMsummercamp@cincyart.org, cincinnatiartmuseum.org/ summercamp Jump into art with eight weeks of exciting art projects, gallery games, and more! Explore a different theme each week with activities taught by skilled educators and museum staff. Designed for children ages 6–12. Convenient before- and after-care available.

Cincinnati Museum Center’s Museum Camps 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45203, Contact: Jessyca Lary, Email: jlary@cincymuseum.org, Phone: (513) 287-7060, cincymuseum.org/museumcamps Dates: May 26th - August 7th • Hours: 9am to 4pm • Ages: Grades K-8th • Gender of Campers: All genders • Special Needs: Yes When school is out - Museum Camps are in! Explore science, technology, history and the arts through creative activities and games at Cincinnati Museum Center’s fun and educational Museum Camps. Whether there’s a day or a week off from school, there’s a camp for that.

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park Summer Theatre Camp and Performance Academy 962 Mt. Adams Circle , Cincinnati, OH 45202, Phone: (513) 421-3888, cincyplay. com/learn/summer-theatre-camps Dates: June 1 – July 31 Together we’ll explore fantastical worlds, storybook lands, and so much more — all while having fun through

Cincinnati Theatre Summer Camp Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, The Otto M. Budig Theater, 1195 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: 513-381- 2273, cincyshakes.com/summercamp Ages/Grades: Grades 1-12 • Cost: $295/ week • Dates: June 8-July 24,, 9am-5pm Join Cincinnati’s most buzzed about professional theater company downtown for Theatre Summer Camp! Beginning programs for “Juniors” (Grades 1-6) and advanced programs for “Seniors” (Grades 7-12) who want a fun and challenging stage experience this summer!

Circus Arts Camps: Stretch Your Child’s Creative Muscle! Presented by My Nose Turns Red Youth Circus Evendale Cultural Arts Center: 10500 Reading Rd, Evendale, OH 45241 & locations throughout the area, Phone: (859) 581-7100, Contact: Steve Roenker, Email: info@mynoseturnsred.org, mynoseturnsred.org Dates: 9 weeks of summer circus camps (1-2 weeks each) • Ages: Varies • Gender of Campers: All genders Activities: Unicycling, Aerials, Gym Wheel, Balance, Juggling, & more Camps for ages 4-6 and ages 7-18. Skills for ages 7-18 includes Gym (German) Wheel, Aerial Silks, Unicycle, Diabolo, Physical Comedy, and more. Camps for ages 4-6 include circus games and activities just right for their age. This is our 23rd year!

Creative Tots (Mason) Summer Camps 6408 Thornberry Court #110 Mason, OH 45040, Contact: Emilie Parry - Owner/ Administrator, Phone: 513-770-6776, Email: creativetotsmason@gmail.com, CreativeTotsMason.com Dates: June 1 - July 31 Creative Tots has specialized in private education for over 20 years for children 18 months - 6 years. We focus in the Fine Arts, STEM education and FUN! We offer 7 weeks of themed camps, including Art Camp, Cooking Camp, Lego Camp and STEM camp just to name a few!

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati's Summer Stock 1127 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH, 45202, Contact: Lauren Carr, Director of Education, Engagement, & Inclusion, Phone: 513-421-3555, ensemblecincinnati.org Dates: Junior, July 6-17; Technical Theatre Intensive, July 13-17; High School, July 20-24 Young actors will gain skills in improv, acting, and auditioning during these

fun, educational theatre camps for junior- and high school-level students. Through the technical theatre intensive track, campers will receive hands-on instruction on subjects including costumes and wardrobe, lighting, sound design and scenic artistry.

Erickson Academy of Irish Dance ― Camp Erickson, Intro to Irish Dance 673 Wilmer Ave - Suite D, Cincinnati, OH 45226, Contact: Allison Weber Erickson, ADCRG, Phone: 513-232-1366, ericksondance@aol.com, ericksonirishdance.com Dates: Session 1: July 14-15-16 (9:30am - 11:30am), Session 2: July 21-22-23 (9:30am - 11:30am) Jig on into Camp Erickson! Campers will be introduced to the basics of Irish dancing, have fun making Irish crafts, learn the group dances of Ireland and enjoy Irish storytelling. Ages 4 - 12. $75 per session. Certified by An Coimisiun le Rinci Gaelacha, Dublin, Ireland.

Great Parks of Hamilton County Summer Day Camps Various Great Parks Locations, Phone: 513-521-7275, Email: information@ greatparks.org, greatparks.org/ discovery/children/day-camps Dates: June-August 2020 What better way to keep the kids outside and active this summer that at a park! Great Parks of Hamilton County provides a fun and safe environment where your young ones will get to explore streams, go on hikes, ride horses, do archery, go kayaking and much more, with experienced and trained staff. Children ages 2-17 can take part in summer camps focused on nature, adventure, farm life and horseback riding! Sign up before March 31 for early bird pricing! Go online for a full list of camps, including dates and fees.

HorsePower at Heavenward Farm Day Camp 7084 Ludlum Rd., Morrow, Ohio 45152, Contact: Carole Bower, Executive Director, Phone: (513) 899-4347, Email: admin@heavenwardfarm.org, heavenwardfarm.org Dates: June 8-12 and June 22-26 • Ages: 8-14 Enjoy the outdoors while learning about and riding horses! Handling, grooming, personalized Riding instruction, and Trail rides. Boating, fishing, crafts and games. Our faith-based program builds confidence, responsibility, respect, and cooperation. Your child will experience a week filled with fun and friendships. We welcome kids facing challenges.

King of Kings Preschool and Kindergarten Summer Camps 3621 Socialville-Foster Rd, Mason, OH 45040, Phone: 513-398-6089, Email: ecemadmin@koklcms.org, koklcms. org/our-school/welcome/ Dates: June, July, August 2020 King of Kings is now enrolling for 2020 Summer Camp! Children ages 2 - 6 years of age, Half-day, full-day and before & after school options available, Nationally Accredited with Excellence in Early Childhood Education. Contact us today for a private tour and consultation!

Mathnasium Locations in Blue Ash, Loveland, Mason, West Chester and Fort Mitchell, KY, Contact: Scott Penkova/Regional Director, Phone: (513)275-7000, Email: scott.p@cincymath.com Blue Ash: mathnasium.com/blueash Loveland: mathnasium.com/loveland Mason: mathnasium.com/mason West Chester: mathnasium.com/ westchester, Fort Mitchell, KY: mathnasium.com/fortmitchell Mathnasium is your summer headquarters for eliminating the summer slide! We will have your student into our center and help them stay fresh with all of their mathematics concepts. Our in-house curriculum is designed to help students learn at their ability level and to push them ahead with topics! We are enrolling for our summer program and are looking forward to making sure your student is ready for getting back to school!

Montessori Academy of Cincinnati Summer Camps 8293 Duke Boulevard, Mason, Ohio 45040, Contact: Megan Thomas, Phone: 513-398-7773, Email: mthomas@ montacademy.org, montacademy.org Dates: June-August 2020 Montessori Academy of Cincinnati offers programs for children beginning at the age of 18 months through 8th grade. The Montessori philosophy and teaching method are used, from our early childhood program through Middle School. Our summer program is 10 weeks of fun and learning for students who have a wide range of interests.

St. Xavier Summer Camps 600 W. North Bend Road, Cincinnati, OH 45224, Contact: Jason Ahlers, Assistant Principal for Student Services, Phone: 513.761.7600, Email: jahlers@stxavier.org, stxavier.org/summer Dates: June and July St. Xavier High School provides academic, arts and athletic summer camps for the months of June and July. Most camps are open to both boys and girls entering grades 6, 7, 8, and 9. A variety of sessions and times are available.

The Summit Country Day School Summer Camps 2161 Grandin Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45208, Contact: Lisa Nicholson, Phone: (513) 871-4700, nicholson_l@summitcds.org, summitcds.org Dates: June 1 to August 7 Our signature Traditional Day Camp will service those ages 3-current Kindergarteners. There are 9 weeks of Summer, each week hosting a theme and at least one field trip. They will join the fun from 9-4 each day from M-F for any week. There will be smiles everywhere as we explore the Arts, Cooking lessons, Superhero Academy, Explore the Outdoors week, Wet & Wild Week and much more. Extended Day will be offered beginning at 8:00 a.m. and again after camp, from 4:00-5:00 p.m. For grades 1-8 we have a menu of choices for kids to ‘Pick Your Fun’. Robotics, Sports Training, Service Camp, Study Skills, Survivor Skills Camp and much more. You won’t believe how much fun we are packing into one Summer!

USA Ninja Challenge Cincinnati Summer Camp 4727 Red Bank Rd Cincinnati, OH 45227, Contact: Steve Sharp, Phone: 513-739- 5528, Email: redbank@usaninja challenge.com, ninjacincinnati.com Dates: June 1st-July 31st • Hours: Monday through Friday 9am -12pm The ninja program is designed to meet the requirements of a full physical fitness program for today’s youth. We incorporate ninja obstacles including rings, balance beams, slack lines, cargo nets, ropes, a traverse rock wall, devil steps, horizontal peg boards, our popular warped wall and more! The desired result of this program is to improve children’s strength, flexibility, and athleticism while building self esteem for our ninjas!

YMCA of Greater Cincinnati Summer Day Camps 2020 Locations: 12 locations throughout Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, Phone: 513-362-YMCA, myY.org Dates: Camps run May through August; dates for each camp are available on the website • Ages/Grades: Ages 3-15 • Cost: Pricing and camp brochures are available on our website. Overnight, day and specialty camps at the Y are all about discovery. Kids have the opportunity to explore nature, find new talents, try new activities, gain independence, and make lasting friendships and memories. And, of course, it's fun too! (Themed Day Camps, Preschool Camps, Teen Camps, Counselor-in-Training programs, Specialty Camps and Sports Camps).

OVERNIGHT CAMPS Duke Young Writers 8 East Campus Union Dr, Durham, NC; Phone: (919) 684-5387; email: youth@ duke.edu; learnmore.duke.edu/youth/ youngwriter Dates: June 14-June 26; June 28-July 10; July 12-July 24 • Hours: 9 am-4:30 pm • Ages: 11-17 • Activities: program activities for residential campers Our most beloved program to date, the Young Writers’ Program holds all the magic of a true “summer camp” experience. You’ll go home with a full notebook, a full heart, and new confidence in your skill as a writer.

Falcon Camp 4251 Delta Rd SW, Carrollton, OH 44615, Phone: (216) 991-2489, Contact: Dave Devey, Email: office@falconcamp.com, falconcamp.com Dates: June 12th - August 8th in various sessions. • Ages: 6-16 • Gender of Campers: All genders • Activities: Water sports, land sports, nature, horses, theater, tennis, lots more! Recognized throughout the Midwest as Ohio’s premier private camp, Falcon was independently selected “Top Ten Camp in USA” and “Coolest Camp in Ohio”. Falcon offers a beautiful lakefront setting and wide variety of activities, including horseback riding, sailing, mountain biking, canoeing, theater, riflery, archery, more! ACA accredited since 1959. Great Fun!

YMCA Camp Piomingo 1950 Otter Creek Park Road, Brandenburg KY 40108, Phone: (502) 942-2616 , email: piomingo@ ymcacamppiomingo.org, ymcacamppiomingo.org Dates: June 7 - August 1 At YMCA Camp Piomingo we believe in the potential of every child. That is why we strive to create an environment that brings out the best in each camper. With a variety of artistic, athletic and team-based activities, YMCA Camp Piomingo campers are given daily opportunities to find out who they are, who they want to be, and then — with the support of friends and our caring staff — develop the confidence and character to become that person.

BE PART OF OUR MONTHLY GUIDE CONTACT KATIE@ CINCINNATIPARENT.COM