Autism friendly home design
While no two autistic people are the same, there are some environmental changes to try out before making expensive changes.
1) Colour and finish. Try subdued, colours: gray, green-blue often work.
2) Bring nature in. Low maintenance houseplants contribute cool, calming tones.
3) Furnishings. Less is more. Use simple solids, low contrasts and matte or satin over gloss.
4) Natural light. Modulate or filter light. Minimize glare.
5. Sound. Reduce hard surfaces, choose quieter appliances.
6) Storage. Have enough shelves and drawers to organize things.
7) Pathways. Create easy clear unobstructed pathways.
Source: embrace-autism.com
Blue Dot
Located in the brain stem just above the neck, and officially called the ‘locus coeruleus’, the blue dot has been described as the brain’s gearbox. Emerging research suggests it plays a role in sleep quality and focus. Next steps… to figure out how we can calm this region to improve sleep with electrical brain stimulation and other innovative tools.
Source: BBC
Living gluten free
Celiac Canada does a wonderful job of providing both information and the Gluten-Free Certification Program (GFCP) – the only voluntary certification program designed for manufacturers of gluten-free food, drug and pharmaceutical products. The Program is intended to differentiate products from the increasing clutter of gluten-free claims in today’s marketplace by using the Trusted Mark of Celiac Canada.
Source: celiac.ca
Great phrases to help build trust
• I appreciate your extra efforts – they didn’t go unnoticed.
• You don’t have to figure this out alone – I’m here for you.
• It’s okay if you’re not ready – I’ll wait.
• You have what it takes to succeed – I believe in you.
• I have your back – no matter how this turns out.
Source: Modern Leadership
Forgot to clean?
We often don’t notice how long it’s been since we washed or replaced everyday items. Here are a few hygiene hints:
Switch dishrags and sponges every few days
Fridge water filters – change at six month mark
Shower curtain liners – wipe regularly, replace annually
Garbage can liners – wash out bi-weekly
Toothbrush holders –rinse weekly or put in dishwasher
Lampshades – remove dust monthly with feather duster.
Grandparents and emotional closeness
A look at 18 studies of teen grandchildren showed the value of “intergenerational solidarity”. This resulted in mutual assistance for tasks like caregiving, learning, financial supports, being confidants and unconditional love. These behaviours also resulted in high frequency of face-to-face, phone and technology contacts, similar intergenerational personalities and promotion of extended family proximity. Researchers pointed out the importance of ongoing nurturing of relationships via social media and in person as grandchildren grow up, move away and decrease family time.
Source: McMaster University
Quitting smoking
It’s never too late to reduce your risk of developing many illnesses that have been associated
with smoking. Get started by:
a) Asking a health professional for help
b) Setting a date and create a plan
c) Learning about withdrawal expectations
d) Calling 1-800-366-3667 for support
Images: CanStock. celiac.ca. Toronto Public Health.
