Parenting With Heart & Mind

10/04/2025

10/03/2025

One of the tougher parts of autism for us has been the fine motor delays. ✏️
Writing especially feels like such a mountain to climb — he needs so much help with even the basics.

He’s in occupational therapy and we’re seeing little steps forward, but as a parent I can’t help but wonder what else we can do to make this easier for him.

10/03/2025

AAC isn’t giving up on speech—it’s giving my son a way to be heard right now. His words matter, however they come.

10/03/2025

💬 Imagine going even 10 minutes without speaking. Frustrating? Isolating? Hard to be understood?
For many children who use AAC, this is their everyday reality.

October is AAC Awareness Month — let’s build empathy, patience, and understanding. Every child deserves a voice.

10/02/2025

To all my sensory processing & autism families.

Any insight on this toothbrush? I’m mostly curious about the APP as my son is very screen motivated and learns so much.

Let me know!

10/02/2025

Throwback video to Halloween of last year so we can show how you can use your AAC to still enjoy the Halloween festivities.

10/02/2025

✨There’s something special about a dad sharing his passion with his son. Creating memories, laughter, and a bond that lasts a lifetime. It’s not about perfection, it’s about being together.✨

10/02/2025

What people see vs what they don’t. Behind the appointments and treatments are challenges only other CHD families truly understand. That’s why our support groups were created to be a safe space to connect with people who get it. 💙

🤝 Join a virtual peer support group: https://ow.ly/Skth50X4aAL

📲 Join our private group for heart parents: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1714711875524852/

You don’t have to do this alone.

10/02/2025

🌟 Did you know AAC can be as simple as a wristband? 🌟

AAC, or Augmentative and Alternative Communication, doesn’t always mean a high-tech speech device. For some individuals, a wristband with a few key symbols can be just as effective.

Why use something so simple?
✔️ It’s portable and always available
✔️ Easier to learn and navigate for new or young AAC users
✔️ Focuses on the most important words needed in the moment

AAC isn’t “one size fits all.” What matters most is finding the right tool that supports communication in meaningful, everyday situations — whether that’s a tablet, a picture board, or even a small wristband. 💙

10/02/2025

Doctor and specialist visits have become a real challenge for my son lately. Even something as simple as sitting in the chair can be overwhelming for him, and he often uses sign language to say “all done” as a way of asking to leave.

At his last dental visit, it took two of us to help him stay still, and he kept biting at the dentist’s fingers—which made it almost impossible for them to check his teeth safely. The dentist had recommended a sedated exam, but despite months of follow-up calls, we hadn’t been able to get any updates or a scheduled appointment.

Thankfully, with some persistence and a little luck, we were able to get into a special needs dental clinic today. The team there was patient, understanding, and skilled in working with kids who need extra support. They confirmed he has no cavities (despite a previous dentist telling us he had eight 😳). They were also able to get one clear x-ray and two partial ones, and even applied a protective treatment to help prevent future decay.

The best part is they want him to come back in a month for a follow-up. That continued exposure will not only support his dental health but also help build his comfort with medical settings over time.

He has come such a long way, and today felt like a huge win in both his health and his growth.

10/01/2025

🎉 Facebook recognized me for starting engaging conversations and producing inspiring content among my audience and peers!

10/01/2025

Another amazing mama who shares all about their experience with AAC. Send her a follow 🙌😍

HAPPY AAC AWARENESS MONTH!!!!