Kelsey McCreight, LCSW’s Post

Hug Your Kid’s Day is a great way to celebrate the magic within our kids and celebrate that warm and loving light that they have glowing within them. Today is a wonderful reminder to cherish the unique relationship that exists between parents and their children. Hugs aren't just heartwarming; they're great for health too, relieving stress and boosting happiness. Did you know hugs can help your child grow a healthy brain, promote emotional development, and support healing? A strong bond can deter predators and make kids less likely to interact with strangers online. Moreover, fostering open communication is crucial for a healthy parent-child relationship. It helps children feel safe to express their thoughts and feelings, leading to better emotional well-being and trust. Use this day as an opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations and deepen your connection. Give your little ones an extra squeeze today and cherish those moments of love, support, and comfort. #empower #prevent #educate #pavingthewayfoundation #PTWF Parent Tool Kit: https://lght.ly/8c61h7g Our Website: https://lght.ly/084pmn

As parents, we often feel the pressure to judge our kids' behavior and correct them when they make mistakes. But judging can be harmful to their self-esteem and motivation. Instead of judging, we should empathize with them. Empathy means putting ourselves in their shoes and trying to understand their feelings, thoughts, and needs. Empathy helps us connect with our kids, focus on what we have in common, and communicate better. Empathy also helps us be gentle and truthful with them, praise their efforts and achievements, and offer them guidance and support. Kids need love and support, not judgment. When we show them respect and kindness, we help them grow into confident and compassionate adults. #nojudgment #parentingtips #positiveparenting #childhoodunplugged #mindfulparenting #gentleparenting #emotionalintelligence

In a world where understanding and compassion make all the difference, let's rally behind friends navigating the unique journey of parenting autistic children. Here's how you can be a pillar of strength ☺️ 1) Be a listening ear, not just an advisor. Sometimes, your friends need empathy more than advice. 2) Embrace the uniqueness of their children. Each one has lovable traits waiting to be discovered. 3) Understand the challenges they face. If they seem distant, offer understanding and a second chance. 4) Recognize the immense responsibility on their shoulders. Keep inviting them to social events, ensuring they feel included. 5) Spread joy! Find creative ways to bring smiles to their faces, reminding them they're not alone in this journey. Send this to your friend who needs to see this or tag him/her in the comments below 🩵 #AutismAwareness #FriendshipMatters #UnderstandingParenthood #LoveWithoutJudgment #CommunitySupport #EmpathyInAction #PathToWellBeing #ForYou

Wondering how you can celebrate the International Day of Happiness on March 20th? Here are some quick, easy ways to get involved: ➡️ Join the Autism Wellbeing Alliance (and share with your community!) ➡️ Practice & Teach happiness in the classroom, in your organization, or at home. Download our free materials for a happiness activity, made accessible for a variety of learners. https://lnkd.in/ebYcahwe ➡️ Share, like & post about the International Day of Happiness! And don’t forget to tag us :) Join us in advancing the Wellbeing Revolution so that everyone can access happiness! Check out our social media toolkit for more information on how to get involved. https://lnkd.in/ebYcahwe #DayOfHappiness #UnitedNations #Happiness

The holiday season, with its dazzling lights, bustling crowds, and festive sounds, holds an enchanting allure for many. However, for individuals with autism, this time of year can bring about a unique set of challenges, primarily centered around sensory overload. The heightened stimuli, from flashing decorations to loud gatherings, can overwhelm individuals with autism, often leading to increased anxiety and stress. Understanding and addressing the impact of holiday sensory overload is crucial for fostering inclusivity during this joyous time. In this article, we explore practical strategies to create a more sensory-friendly environment, ensuring that individuals with autism can partake in the festivities with comfort and enjoyment. By recognizing and accommodating sensory sensitivities, we can make the holiday season a truly inclusive and joyous experience for everyone. https://lnkd.in/eDVkskn

How often is anger really a mix of embarrassment and disappointment? How often is sadness a mix of loneliness and jealousy? Emotions are complicated, for adults and for kids, and there’s always more going on than meets the eye. Exploring and understanding mixed and complicated emotions is a foundational piece of building emotional awareness - but when we're working with kids, it has to be engaging. Dive deep with our Under the Sea - Creatures worksheet and Fishing for Feelings craft/ game. These free printables can be used at home or in therapy sessions to help kids explore their emotions through play. https://bit.ly/3VVuer8 #EmotionsMatter #KidsMentalHealth #Parenting #AccessToCare

Traveling during the summer can be an exciting yet challenging experience for individuals with autism. Here are some tips to make your journey smoother: 1. Plan Ahead -Research your destination thoroughly. Familiarize your loved one with pictures and videos of the place you'll be visiting. -Create a visual schedule to outline the trip’s activities, reducing anxiety about the unknown. 2. Pack Sensory Tools -Bring along sensory toys, noise-canceling headphones, and comfort items like a favorite blanket or stuffed animal to help manage sensory overload. -Include snacks that are familiar and preferred to avoid dietary issues. 3. Prepare for Transitions -Practice airport security and travel routines at home. Use social stories to explain what to expect at different stages of the journey. -Allow extra time for transitions and be patient with any delays or changes in plans. #AutismTravel #SummerAdventures #AutismAwareness #TravelTips

Navigating the challenging yet profoundly rewarding journey of raising children with autism, despite the difficulties and occasional tough days, my children continue to impart invaluable lessons in facing adversity with strength. 🧡 In the face of challenges, my children have shown me the true meaning of resilience. Their determination, courage, and the ability to find joy in the simplest of moments inspire me daily. Life with autism has taught me that true happiness isn't found in grand gestures or extravagant milestones; it resides in the beauty of everyday moments. 🌈 The laughter shared during a game, the warmth of a tight hug, or the sparkle in their eyes when they achieve a personal triumph — these are the treasures that bring genuine satisfaction and happiness. It's a reminder to savor the journey, finding joy in the little things that often go unnoticed in our fast-paced lives. In the heart of parenting, especially with unique challenges, every small achievement becomes a cause for celebration. These victories, no matter how seemingly trivial to others, are monumental in our world. They've taught me to appreciate the journey, find strength in adversity, and most importantly, to cherish the simple pleasures that life offers. 🌟 Embracing the little joys is not just a lesson my children teach me; it's a universal truth that leads us to true happiness and satisfaction. With the weekend around the corner, let´s reflect on this and let us all enjoy the little things. #Resilience #CherishingTheLittleThings #ParentingJourney #AutismAwareness #EverydayHappiness #LifeLessons

April sure is a busy month! We are so happy to be supporting and promoting so many wonderful events and causes. April is World Autism Month, with April 2 - 8 being Autism Acceptance Week. This is a special time of year when we need to shine a light on autism to celebrate and elevate the voices and talents of people on the autism spectrum. They have so many gifts to share with all of us, and it is yet another opportunity to show that diversity is our strength. If you know someone on the spectrum, reach out and give them a hug today (if that is OK with them of course!!). If you love someone with autism, give them something that they especially need today (maybe some space?). And if you are just learning, spend some time on websites like https://autismspeaks.org (@autismspeaks) or https://autismcanada.org (@autismcanada) to learn more. #FourSquareMindfulness #WorldAutismMonth #AutismAwarenessMonth #AutismAcceptanceMonth #AutismAwareness #AutismAcceptance #ASD #AutismSpectrumDisorder #AutismLove #neurodiversity #MentalHealth #mindfulness #meditation #MindfulMeditation #LoveIsAVerb #LoveIsActivism Image via @21andsensory (https://lnkd.in/eA-jTjwU)

Tracking your child's emotions empowers them to understand and express their feelings confidently and this is crucial for their development and well-being. Regular check-ins and empathetic listening foster resilience and emotional intelligence. #Empowerwiz #childempowerment #NurtureTheirUniqueness #PositiveReinforcement #lifeskillsforkids #parentingskills #raisingchamps #impactinggenerations#ChildEmotions #EmotionalHealth #SupportiveParenting