About
Hello! Welcome to DESDEMONA FLOWERS. My husband and I are raising 2 neurodivergent children. Both of which have ADHD - Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder. Our youngest child was diagnosed with autism when he was 3 years old (now 8 years old). I created this website as a way to reach out to other parents and loved ones of children on the autism spectrum. If you found yourself on my page and are on the spectrum, I hope you can feel the love we have for our son and the good intentions we have for maintaining this website. I will be sharing our experience with you. I AM NOT A CERTIFIED SPEECH, PLAY, OCCUPATIONAL, OR BEHAVIORAL THERAPIST. ACTIVITIES MENTIONED ARE JUST WHAT WE DO WITH OUR SON. I fully understand that each person with autism is unique unto themselves and the spectrum is diverse and varied.
IMPORTANCE OF ACTIVITIES
Sensory
​
The importance of making sure my child is comfortable in his body and in his surroundings can not be overstated. If a child is overheated, sleepy, in an environment where too much is going on (sensory overload), or uncomfortable in any way, it can be very difficult for the child to focus on what is trying to be conveyed/taught to them. It is important for me to understand what my child needs sensory-wise. This "sensory diet" has the ability to change daily. It is good to fulfill this diet as a proactive measure to help my son be in a better mindset for his day and the tasks that will be set before him at therapy and in his school setting. Sensory activities I practice with my child will be discussed in future blog posts.
*
Speech
​
We take the ability to speak for granted. Can you imagine if you were not able to convey your wants and needs? How frustrating would that be?!? Speaking is not the only method of communication. Some children use the PECS picture system to communicate. My son utilizes a device called an Augmentative and Alternative Communication device (IPAD) with a program called Proloquo2go to speak to us. He likes to request his favorite songs on his IPAD when we are driving in the car. Future blog posts will discuss how we practice speech with our son. No matter how an autistic person communications, the important thing is that their inner voice is heard and they feel respected and loved.
Fun
​
It is crucial to make time for your loved one and give them the time they deserve. I am preaching to the choir here, folks. Life can get so hectic and there ALWAYS seems like there is something we should be doing instead. Meet your kids where they are at and join in on their interests. Life is so short. Our children will grow into adults and we want them to have a lifetime of memories of us caring enough to take the time.
Life Skills
I would like for my child to know what "stranger danger" is, why eloping is harmful to know that bodies of water have depth (drowning), and other harmful things/events. I know this is a topic that should be handled with care because I don't want to instill so much fear in him that he doesn't want to interact with the world altogether. It is a very delicate situation and, to be honest, I am still working on how to properly teach these things to my own child in an age-appropriate manner. I felt like it was worth mentioning because I have yet to meet a parent of an autistic child who does not share in this same concern.