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Teaching a child with autism can prove to have its challenges. Autistic children have unique learning needs and will require extra guidance and support to succeed in the classroom. To best understand how to work with a child with autism, you must first take the time to understand what the child needs and then learn how to help them best. Here are some tips for working with autistic children.

Simple Instruction

Providing simple instruction is one of the best ways to work with children with autism. Communication can be difficult for autistic children, and giving hard to follow instructions with figurative language is sure to frustrate them. Break down instructions into steps, then provide those steps one or two at a time. Don’t forget to allow them time to process the information and clarify when needed.

Easier Communication

Communication can be difficult for children with autism. Along with simple instruction, simple communication can also provide less confusion and more productivity. Keeping sentences short and language clear is one of the best ways to ensure that kids with autism understand what needs to be accomplished. Avoid vague and abstract language.

Give Extra Time 

Sometimes even simple direction may not be sufficient even for a child with autism, and that is okay. Giving them extra time to process the instructions allows them to work at their own pace. In the Therapist Spotlight with Sarah-Jane, one of our Speech Language Pathologists mentions patience as the key to working with autistic children. Rushing through activities and assignments will only bring frustration and to both the teacher and the student. 

Eliminate Stressors

Kids with autism are typically used to a routine. When things disturb their routine, they can become stressed and agitated. This can also be true if items are rushed and misunderstood. As mentioned earlier, communication can be difficult for children with autism, and the same goes for routine disruptions. Eliminating stressors in a child’s day can lead to greater success and more streamlined learning in the classroom.

Use Visuals

Visuals are an important tactic used by teachers and therapists working with autistic children. Materials such as line drawings, photographs, and picture cards can help teach a lesson or clarify an instruction. Picture books are also a great way to get reading and literature into their daily activities. Pictures of a child’s schedule can also help bring structure to an environment.

Tech for Teaching

With advances in technology, it’s no wonder parents are beginning to use it to help their children. Specific apps can successfully address developmental delays in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Apps such as Otsimo and Proloquo2Go help with speech skills, while apps like Grace App help empower nonverbal people to communicate. Some use games, like SuperWhy! while others are websites that provide adaptive products for children with autism to use. These methods and more can help children with autism in the classroom to better understand lessons and activities. Our list of technological tools is the perfect start to incorporating technology into everyday activities.

Structured Environment

A structured and predictable environment will make a child with autism more comfortable when learning. A routine with minimal distractions paired with a structured lesson plan and environment is the best way to work with kids with autism. Lesson plans and instructions should include what to do, how to do it, when it needs to be completed, and what comes next. Providing this structure will bring out the best in the student. 

Structured Activities

Structured activities also provide the comfort and predictability students with autism need to stay focused. Visual schedules can help to keep kids on track with their actions. Implementing a timer can help them know how long a project will take. Don’t forget to schedule a time for social interactions to improve social skills with their peers.

Teach Social Skills

The classroom is the perfect opportunity to teach social skills as it should encourage kids to practice communication. Activities such as arts and crafts or even eating lunch together in the classroom can encourage students to interact and begin to feel comfortable communicating and playing with their peers. These social skills can also include interpreting facial expressions or learning how to respond to a specific situation.

Avoid Sensory Overload

Children with autism can experience over sensory stimulation or under sensory stimulation without others even knowing. Things such as smells, lighting, or even echoes can trigger an autistic child and give them sensory overload. It is essential to be aware of a child’s triggers and eliminate them as much as possible for a productive learning environment. 

Incorporating Sensory Activities

Sensory activities are fun and engaging for kids with autism. Incorporating sensory activities such as finger painting, play-doh, and picture books help bring students back into focus while also enjoying play therapy.

Play Therapy is another great way to add sensory activities into daily routines. Although it may just seem like playing, children with autism are given the opportunity for language development and working through social skills. It allows children to learn and develop the best way they know how; by playing. Play Therapy can be done with role play, obstacle courses, or even play-doh. The possibilities are endless!

Working with autistic children may require extra attention and extra support, but seeing them thrive and be successful in school is a different kind of joy. Here at Lexington, our schools are designed to help children with autism reach their full potential inside and outside the classroom. 

Lexington is committed to creating the best quality of life possible for our students. With multiple school locations for children with autism, we provide evidenced-based practices, structured learning, standards-based curriculum, sensory integration, and behavior modification.Our Pre K-12 school educates children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by providing the critical components for every student to develop their academic, behavioral, and social skills. This is made possible by tailoring to every child’s needs and building a foundation for students to achieve their highest potential. Contact us today to learn more about us.

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How Music Therapy Can Help People with Autism

Music therapy is a well-established method to bring together autism and music. At Lexington Services, we utilize musical engagement to assist our members with a broad variety of cognitive and emotional issues to improve their capacity to function. There really isn’t any risk of using music f

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or autism therapy. We provide expert musical therapists who know how to best use sensory music for autism. 

This autism therapy can enhance someone’s abilities, reduce anxiety, and even create new communication skills by engaging with adults and children on the autism spectrum.

It’s crucial to understand that music therapy is not the same as musical training. If you want your loved one to develop vocal or instrumental talents, you’ll need to locate a teacher instead of or in addition to a music therapist. Cultivating autism and music can serve as a beneficial way to treat daily stressors. 

Music Therapy for Autism

Who is Your Music Therapist?

A practicing music therapist has a bachelor’s degree in music therapy from one of around 70 AMTA-recognized university programs. Certain applicants have further education.

Along with the academic requirements, the bachelor’s degree requires 1200 hours of clinical training, including a supervised internship. Music therapy graduate degrees place a focus on advanced clinical practice and research.

Individuals who have earned a bachelor’s degree in music therapy are eligible to sit for the national board certification exam and acquire the title MT-BC (Music Therapist – Board Certified.)

The MT-BC credential is issued by a separate, accredited organization known as the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT.) Music therapists who demonstrate the competence, ability, and skills necessary to function at a professional level get their degree.

If the state in which they work has developed a state licensure/registry procedure, music therapists may also be licensed or registered.

Why It’s a Great Option

Music therapy can help those on the autism spectrum improve their communication, social abilities, behavior, cognitive, sensorial difficulties, motor abilities, and self-reliance or self-determination. Keep reading to learn about how therapists use sensory music for autism during treatment.

  1. The therapist seeks to create a musical experience that resonates with a specific client, establishing trust and fostering personal relationships. 

A meta-study took a deep dive into results. They “reported benefits included, but were not limited to, increased appropriate social behavior; increased attention to task; increased vocalization, verbalization, gesture, and vocabulary comprehension; increased communication and social skills; enhanced body awareness and coordination; improved self-care skills; and reduced anxiety.”

  1. Autism and music may show more benefits when the rest of the family is involved. The same research effort revealed that music therapy in a family-oriented environment might help strengthen parent-child connections. Music tends to evoke interest and engagement in those with autism. Music is motivating and engrossing, so therapists help their students achieve desired reactions by using the sounds as a natural “reinforcer.” 
  2. Music therapy may also assist those who have sensory aversions to specific sounds. The treatment can help our members deal with sound sensitivities or individual variances in auditory processing.

If you or your loved one already seems to love and react to music, it may be worthwhile to explore some of our music therapy providers.

Music Therapy Affects People With Autism

First, your therapist will get to know their members. After analyzing each person’s abilities and requirements, they can then create a treatment plan. The plan will vary per student but typically includes a variety of objectives and goals. Once all of this is covered, we can give the appropriate therapy. 

Music therapists use a range of music and approaches to lead one-on-one sessions and in group settings. Professional music therapists can devise solutions that their members adopt in their daily life. We encourage members and their families to bring music therapy practices into the home setting. 

Where Do I Find Care?

Music therapists work at Lexington Services. Check out our website for more information on which locations we offer music therapy for autism. You can also find music therapists throughout the ASD public school systems. 

According to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), music therapy is recognized as a related service that provides “significant motivation and/or assistance” in the achievement of Individual Education Plan (IEP) goals and objectives.

Music therapists may also deliver services in the home, early intervention centers, Head Start programs, daycare centers, specialized programs in collaboration with other professionals, day treatment facilities, group homes, supportive employment locations, and other community settings.

Research Backs It Up 

There is substantial research on the advantages of music therapy with persons on the autism spectrum. Many peer-reviewed publications exist such as the Journal of Music Therapy and Music Therapy Perspectives. There are also numerous pieces in journals outside the field. The clinical outcomes that have been researched have mostly focused on the use of music to address:

  • Communication
  • Cognition
  • Behaviors(Problem/Repetitive/Stereotypic)
  • Emotional Regulation 
  • Social Skills 

The following are targeted areas and explanations for providing music therapy to those with ASD.

  • Music has a worldwide appeal. It acts as a non-threatening connection between people and/or between individuals and their environment, promoting relationships, learning, self-expression, and communication. 
  • Music catches and keeps people’s attention. It is very motivating and may be utilized as a natural “reinforcer” for desired reactions.
  • Music therapy may help people minimize negative and/or self-stimulatory reactions and improve engagement in more suitable and socially acceptable ways.
  • Music delivers real, multisensory stimulation (auditory, visual, proprioceptive, vestibular, and tactile.)
  • Music therapy focuses on strengths, which may then be used to treat each individual’s areas of need. Many persons with ASD have intrinsic musical abilities; hence, music therapy gives a possibility for rewarding encounters.
  • The rhythmic component of music is particularly organized for the sensory systems of people with autism. As a consequence, music therapy may improve auditory processing and other sensory-motor, perceptual/motor, gross, and fine motor abilities. Musical components and frameworks create a feeling of comfort and familiarity in the music therapy context, helping persons with ASD to try new activities in a predictable yet pliable framework.

Music therapy may help persons who do not speak to interact, engage, and express themselves nonverbally. Music therapy is often used to aid in the development of verbal communication, speech, and language abilities.

Music therapy for children and people with autism augments interpersonal timing and reciprocity in shared play, turn-taking, listening, and reacting to another person in order to adapt and address their communication methods.

Sensory Music for Autism

On a Final Note

Music therapy assists people with ASD in identifying and effectively expressing their feelings.

Because music is processed in both hemispheres of the brain, it may increase cognitive functioning and may be utilized to remediate certain speech/language abilities. 

If you are looking for music therapy to treat autism, contact us and learn more about our services.

Why Occupational Therapy is Important for Children with Autism

What is the significance of occupational therapy for autism?

Lexington Services explains occupational therapy and how it might benefit autistic children. We discuss the critical significance of occupational therapy intervention for autistic children, as well as examples of therapeutic approaches and basic ways to address sensory processing issues.

Autistic children and children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have considerably different sensory processing patterns than their classmates and children with other specific educational needs (SEN).

It is thought that 60–70% of autistic children have sensory modulation/processing dysfunct

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ion. According to studies, persons with autism are slower to integrate signals from their senses, resulting in a substantially slower processing speed. This might help to explain why autistic youngsters often have “meltdowns.”

Autistic children lack the required “filters” to screen out irrelevant information, which may lead to meltdowns as each input mounts and grows without being correctly filtered out. They may still be processing previous noises in the hallway while attempting to cope with fresh inputs from the instructor and other pupils in the classroom.

Sensory overload may manifest itself in a variety of ways, including problematic behavior, withdrawal, and full shutdown.

There are, however, a few easy tactics that may be utilized at home or in the classroom to successfully add the sensory filters that these kids often need. Special needs occupational therapists play a critical role in this intervention. Using the appropriate filters and interventions to target each sensory system helps the child’s nervous system become more organized/regulated, which aids in attention and performance.

Occupational Therapy Can Address the Child’s Sensory Processing Abnormalities

What is Occupational Therapy for Kids?

Special needs occupational therapists strive to promote, maintain, and enhance kids’ abilities so that they can function in school and beyond. If you’re wondering what is occupational therapy for kids, you can rest assured they will be learning self-esteem, self-confidence, independence, and social connection. A special needs occupational therapist promotes by encouraging active engagement in life. They develop programs using a comprehensive approach. They consider kids’ physical, social, emotional, sensory, and cognitive talents and needs.

A special needs occupational therapist works with autistic children to help them improve handwriting, fine motor abilities, and daily living skills. The most important duty, however, is to identify and address the child’s sensory processing abnormalities. This is effective in removing learning hurdles and assisting kids in being calmer and more focused.

Occupational therapists who deal with children who have sensory processing disorders often have postgraduate training in sensory integration.

Sensory integration treatment is predicated on the premise that the child’s environment is either “overstimulating” or “understimulating.” As a result, the goal of sensory integration treatment is to strengthen the brain’s capacity to integrate sensory information, allowing the kid to function better in his or her everyday activities.

Occupational therapists often recommend a sensory diet/lifestyle for children.

What exactly is a sensory diet or lifestyle?

Another way to understand what is occupational therapy for kids is to understand a sensory diet. To make sense of our surroundings, most of us automatically blend our senses (sight, hearing, smell, touch, taste, balance, body in space). Every kid has a unique set of sensory demands, which change based on mood, surroundings, and therapeutic intervention.

A sensory diet/lifestyle is a daily activity schedule that has been specially devised. It tries to include sensory activities into the kid’s waking day to increase concentration and attention while also ensuring the youngster feels “just right” (regulated) throughout the day. The body needs activities to maintain its arousal level ideal, just as it requires the proper diet regularly spaced throughout the day.

A sensory diet/lifestyle helps the child’s nervous system feel more organized, which improves attention and performance. A trained occupational therapist may utilize advanced training and assessment skills to create a successful sensory diet for the student to follow throughout the day.

What are the goals of a sensory diet/lifestyle?

A sensory diet may have both immediate and cumulative effects:

They aid to remodel a student’s nervous system over time so that he is better equipped to withstand challenging/distracting sensations and circumstances.

They help students manage their alertness and boost their attention span.

They decrease sensory seeking and sensory avoidance behaviors and deal with changes more calmly.

This helps the youngster to concentrate on the work at hand rather than being distracted by stimuli such as their shirt label rubbing against their neck or the fragrance of hand lotion, a noise outside, and/or getting bumped in the hallway.

If appropriate treatment is not sought, a person with sensory processing disorder finds it difficult to process and act on information received through the senses, which creates challenges in performing everyday tasks and can result in, for example, motor co-ordination difficulties, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, school failure, and so on.

Sensory processing abnormalities may occur in the absence of a diagnosis of autism.

Circuits For Sensing

Occupational therapists often advise beginning the day with a sensory circuit: a sensory-motor activity program that helps youngsters develop a “ready to learn” condition. Sensory circuits are a set of activities meant to stimulate all of the senses. They’re an excellent method to energize or relax for the day. Each session comprises the following:

Spinning, bouncing on a gym ball, skipping, and star leaps are examples of alerting exercises that activate the body’s central nervous system in preparation for learning.

Organizing activities (such as balancing on a wobble board, log rolling, juggling, and so on) that need both the brain and the body to work together.

Calming exercises (hard muscular exertion and deep pressure, such as wall pushes, push-ups, and weight lifting) provide an awareness of their body in space and strengthen the capacity to self-regulate sensory input.

Occupational therapy intervention has been shown to improve the speech, interpersonal, and motor abilities of some of the most complicated and “hard-to-reach” children. Following the intervention, children are more controlled, which decreases anxiety and boosts these children’s prospects to grow and flourish in the overwhelming world in which we currently live.

10 Simple Methods of Occupational Therapy for Autism

  1. Try providing ear defenders or allowing the youngster to use an MP3 player while focusing on the child who is overwhelmed by excessive noise.
  2. Allow the child who is bothered by contact to stand at the front or rear of the line to avoid getting bumped. Allow them to go on to the next lesson 3 minutes before the rest of the class to prevent hallway collisions.
  3. Include frequent movement breaks for the one who cannot sit still, and consider alternate seating, such as a wobble cushion, to enable fidgety movement.
  4. Try lycra underwear, trial rash vests, and rugby base layers for the student who craves hugs, which are inexpensively available at many sports stores.
  5. Change the paper to a buff color and think about the typeface for the youngster who struggles with black text on a white backdrop. This is less taxing on the eyes. Consider your PowerPoint presentation arrangement as well.
  6. If a youngster is overwhelmed by fragrance, use a sweatband with a drop of their favorite oil, shampoo, aftershave, etc. Allow the student to carry this with them to cover any unpleasant odors.
  7. Food play should be promoted for youngsters who have a restricted diet. There should be no pressure applied to the youngster, and this should not occur at mealtimes. The goal is only to minimize food aversion.
  8. Soothing requires the use of a peaceful, calming room/space both in the classroom and at home. Make use of a pop-up tent, a blanket draped over a table, or a cabin bed. Add beanbags, sensory toys, and so forth…
  9. Offer commercially available chew toys, crispy breadsticks, or carrot sticks to youngsters who like to chew.
  10. If your kid dislikes having their teeth cleaned, consider a vibrating toothbrush and unflavored toothpaste.

Headphones Can Block Out Excessive Noise

Summary

Occupational therapy for autism can be highly beneficial. If you or a loved one are looking for a special needs occupational therapist, look no further. At Lexington Services, we offer the care you’re looking for. Give us a call today. 

What is Behavioral Consulting?

What is Behavioral Consulting? 

Behavioral consulting, or behavioral therapy, is a kind of therapy that helps to identify and help someone to change potentially unhealthy or self-destructive behaviors. To help determine if behavioral consulting may benefit you or a loved one, you can start by sett

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ing up a mental health consultation with a behavior therapist. In this mental health consultation, your therapist can help you identify any unhealthy, learned behaviors and help you or your loved one begin to recognize and change current problems and behaviors. 

Who Does Behavioral Therapy Help?

Behavioral consulting can benefit, or even treat, people (both children and adults alike) living with the following conditions or disorders:

  • ADHD
  • Anxiety
  • Anger Issues
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Depression
  • Eating Disorders
  • OCD
  • Panic Disorders
  • Phobias
  • PTSD
  • Self-Harm
  • Substance Abuse

Finding a Behavioral Therapist 

Psychotherapy Session, Woman Talking to His Psychologist in the Studio

Before scheduling your mental health consultation, you should interview several different providers to best find someone you connect to, and more importantly, someone experienced in the kind of behavioral therapy you are seeking. Most importantly, make sure the provider you choose has adequate certifications, degrees, and education in treating your condition. If you are having a hard time getting started, you can ask your primary care provider for a recommendation, which may mean a referral to a psychiatrist if medication is something you may benefit from. 

While many insurance plans have mental health benefits and cover therapy, group therapy or sliding scale payment options are often available for low-income individuals seeking care. You may feel connected to the first therapist you work with, and other times, you may need to meet with a few different providers before finding the right fit. You will be asked many personal questions about yourself during the mental health consultation, which can feel intimidating at first, but remember, your therapist is there to help you overcome obstacles and start feeling better. 

When searching for a behavioral therapist, you can choose from: 

  • Psychologists
  • Psychiatrists
  • Social Workers
  • Faith-based Counselors
  • Non-faith-based Counselors

Types of Behavioral Consulting 

There are many different types of behavioral consulting and a mental health consultation can help an experienced and trusted medical care provider determine which kind of therapy is right for you. Behavioral consulting is considered to be a highly effective form of therapy and has been used successfully in treating a variety of conditions, including but not limited to those listed above. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, combines behavioral therapy with cognitive therapy to understand how your thoughts and beliefs influence your mood, focusing on how to solve the current problems you are facing. In the long term, the goal is to change unhealthy thinking and behavior patterns into healthier ones. CBT is a very popular and effective form of treatment for various mental health conditions. 

Cognitive-Behavioral Play Therapy

Cognitive-behavioral play therapy is a kind of treatment most commonly used with children. Therapists can gain insight into what a child is unable to express or why a child may be uncomfortable by watching them play. In cognitive-behavioral play therapy, children play freely and choose their toys, and therapists may ask the child to use those toys or even draw a picture to create a scene. Additionally, this form of therapy may help improve parent-child communication. 

System Desensitization

System desensitization is a form of therapy often used to treat phobias by teaching people to replace a fear response, whether to a phobia or trauma, with relaxation responses. In this technique, patients are taught various breathing and relaxation techniques. When patients are ready to utilize these techniques, therapists can slowly expose the phobia in doses, and patients can use what they have learned to work through their response. 

Aversion Therapy

Aversion therapy is a kind of therapy used to treat things like alcoholism and other kinds of substance abuse. Therapists teach patients to associate these addictive stimuli with something incredibly unpleasant or uncomfortable to help patients avert from desiring the substance. 

Behavioral Therapy for Children

Child behavior consulting is a form of therapy in which children are taught different methods of responding to situations in a more positive way. The key to child behavior consulting is rewarding positive behavior, which parents will need to reinforce in the child’s day-to-day life. Trusting a therapist may take a child some time to warm up to, which is normal. Children living with conditions such as ADHD and autism can benefit from child behavior consulting. 

What is a Behavior Analyst?

A Board Certified Behavior Analyst, or a BCBA, has a certification in applied behavior analysis through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. These professionals work in schools, classrooms, clinics, nonprofits, and hospitals and use ABA therapy, or applied behavior analysis, which uses systematic and scientific processes to help influence an individual’s behavior. Many Behavior Analysts specialize in areas such as mental health issues, child behavior consulting, developmental disabilities, and autism. 

What Does a Behavior Analyst Do? 

Psychiatrist Taking Notes During Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Session With Patient Suffering From Depression

A BCBA, or behavior analyst, will help to create, individualize, maintain, evaluate, and supervise your child’s ABA program. A behavior analyst may work with children who are neurotypical or living with learning disabilities, developmental disabilities, or autism. ABA therapy, or applied behavior analysis, is based on the science of learning and behavior, helping us to understand how behavior works, how behavior is affected by the environment, and how learning takes place. Behavior analysts utilize ABA therapy by using this understanding of how behavior works and transitioning that understanding to real-life situations and settings to increase positive and helpful behaviors and decrease behavior that is harmful or negatively impacts and affects learning. 

What Are the Benefits of ABA Therapy?

Behavior analysis has been studied and used successfully for decades, helping many people to learn and gain different skills, whether it is learning a new language or a healthier lifestyle. ABA therapy has been used to help children with developmental disabilities and autism since the 1960s. Overall, ABA therapy and child behavior consulting can help to improve focus, social skills, memory, attention, and academic skills while decreasing problem behaviors. It can additionally help to increase language and communication skills, and other skills that are useful in everyday life. ABA Therapy can be tailored to each individual’s needs, provided in various locations in the home, school, or community in private or group instruction. 

How does ABA Therapy Work?

ABA therapy works in the pattern of antecedent, behavior, and consequence. It focuses on positive reinforcement, meaning good or correct behavior is rewarded, so the individual is more likely to repeat that behavior rather than bad behavior. In time, this therapy encourages meaningful and positive changes in behavior. Depending on the age and ability level, goals will be set in different areas of skill, including learning and academic skills, social skills, communication and language, self-care, play or leisure, and motor skills. Family members and caregivers can additionally receive training to support their child or loved one through this process and support learning and practicing skills throughout the day. 

ABA Therapy at Lexington Services

At Lexington Services, we offer private pay and various insurance options so your loved ones will not need to wait for the services they need and deserve. Our Behavior Analysts are highly trained, skilled, and compassionate professionals, and Lexington Services offer top-of-the-line care to all of its members. Give us a call or visit our website today to learn more about the benefits of our ABA therapy program and how it can help your family today.

What is Respite Care and How Does It Work

Respite Care

A respite care definition, simply put, is another way of saying a short-term break for primary caregivers. As a full-time caregiver, it is crucial to take breaks and time to look after yourself and your own needs, which is why respite is so helpful. Respite care allows you to hire a profession

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al for periodic or short-term assistance so you may continue to care for your loved one in the comfort of your home. This temporary relief, whether for a few hours, days, or weeks, has positive mental and physical effects for caregivers.  

Who Needs Respite Care?

Paper With Text : Respite Care: Do You Need It? Yes or No

Respite care is designed to help relieve caregivers in providing around-the-clock care for individuals living with an illness or disability. Sometimes caregivers need to step out for an appointment, to run errands, work, or exercise, or they may simply need a break, and taking care of yourself should never make you feel guilty! This is why trained, skilled, and compassionate respite care providers are here to help. Respite may be used to help care for someone living with one of the following conditions:

  • Cancer
  • TBI, or traumatic brain injury
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Dementia
  • Stroke
  • Blindness

Respite providers can create a safe, comfortable, and supervised space for your loved one while you are away. Services range from sitting and speaking with someone to the following:

  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Food preparation
  • Mealtimes, including eating and drinking
  • Administering and taking medications
  • Exercise or mobility
  • Enjoying the outdoors
  • Transportation to appointments
  • Getting in and out of bed
  • And more! 

Finding Respite Care

When looking for respite care services, there are many factors you will want to consider, such as respite care costs, accident insurance, credentials, the experience of the provider, and more. If you are caregiving looking after more than one person, you may need to inquire whether the respite services offer to care for multiple individuals. You will likely speak with many care providers and places to find the right fit, and if it is possible, have your loved one join you in this process to make you both feel better about transitioning to respite care. Here are some other important questions to ask and consider:

  • How long can respite care sessions last with my chosen provider?
  • Is my provider available for long-term care to cover extended time away from home?
  • Does the provider have transportation, or will I need to provide a vehicle?
  • Are daily chores, such as cleaning and meal preparation included in services?
  • What kinds of services are included in the care fees, and can they be personalized?
  • How is payment arranged?
  • How long in advance does my provider need to be booked for their services?
  • What training, education, and credentials does my care provider have?
  • How are providers screened when hired, and is a background check conducted?
  • How is performance evaluated, and is there a supervisor?
  • Are there backup plans or providers available for inclement weather or emergencies?
  • How will my provider monitor medication administration and medical conditions?
  • Can providers receive additional training to meet specific family needs?

Types of Respite Services

Respite care comes in many forms, whether it means enlisting friends, neighbors, and family to help share in the responsibility and chores, or finding a volunteer or paid caregiver to provide in-home services and support for your loved one, occasionally or regularly. Respite can also be utilized outside of the home as well in settings such as adult day-care centers, day camps, or nursing homes. Once you decide which type of respite care is right for you and your family, you can take that break and get the rest you need while also assuring the continued care of your loved one. 

Respite Care Cost

Respite costs can vary depending on the services you and your loved one will need. If you are looking for more of a companion, such as someone to sit and talk with your loved one, many community and church programs have volunteers that may do this at no cost. However, insurance may not cover these basic services, so it is important to check with your insurance provider beforehand. More involved respite care costs will depend on the kind of agency, services, and length of time services are utilized for. Some insurance policies will cover respite costs, while others will not, so it is always important to determine coverage and any out-of-pocket costs before arranging care. 

Some individuals may cover for government or private programs, so we recommend checking with the developmental disabilities agency in your home state to learn more about the services that are currently available. Resources are additionally available through non profit organizations that focus on certain conditions. Remember to interview anyone coming into your home beforehand and make sure you feel comfortable and safe with this person as well. If something does not work for you and your family, do not hesitate to stop services and find an alternative provider. 

There’s No Shame in Needing Help

Elderly Lady and Young Girl Holding Hands, Support for the Elderly

One of the biggest challenges of beginning respite care is admitting that you need a break. It is important to be open and honest with your family and loved ones about why you need respite care, as they may want to get involved in the process and help. First, look at all your options and see what works best for you and your needs, then look into how you can cover respite costs.

If money is a concern, speak to other family members about temporarily swapping responsibilities to avoid burnout, or you may be able to seek help from a friend, neighbor, or family member dealing with a similar situation. It is easy to get overwhelmed without breaks and start feeling physically, mentally, and emotionally drained. There is no shame in needing and asking for help, and you will find that when you reassume your caregiving role after the break you need and deserve, you will feel more focused, refreshed, and energized. This will also rub off on the person you are caring for as well, leading to a positive experience for everyone involved. 

Lean on Me

Caring for a loved one with disabilities can feel challenging at times, and we recommend participating in support groups to establish relationships with and trust in other caregivers. It makes all the difference knowing you are not alone when times are tough. This supportive setting can additionally be valuable if you do not have family members or friends that are willing or able to support you through your experience as a caregiver. Seeking help is not an easy step, especially when it feels like someone else is your priority, but taking the time to care for yourself is essential for you to be available to care for your loved one. 

While you should never feel shame in starting respite care, this response is normal. It is important to remember that your loved one must have the chance to develop multiple relationships in their life, no matter how close you are or how well you may be managing. A fresh pair of eyes can be helpful in suggesting or trying new caregiving methods and techniques, too!  It is not healthy to spend all day, every day, with the same person – for both parties. Having time apart from a loved one is just as beneficial to their wellness as it is yours. 

Respite Care with Lexington Services

Lexington Services is staffed with highly trained, skilled, and compassionate providers who offer top-of-line care to our members. Our respite care services can be tailored to fit your family and loved one’s unique needs. Give us a call or visit our website today to learn more about the many services we offer. We look forward to meeting you and providing your family with the exceptional care you deserve! 

Lexington 2021 Summer Programs

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Summer is a great time for kids to enjoy summer activities with friends safely. Make Lexington Services a part of your family’s summer experience by becoming a summer explorer at one of our campus’s Summer Programs.

At Lexington, we are offering our summer program to individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. Each campus will have its own activities, water games, and field trips!

Check out each campus for your ideal summer program fun!

Lexington Learning Center – Mesa

  • Tuesday, June 1st – Friday, July 30th
  • 2 sessions daily (Monday – Friday)
    • Morning Session: 8 am – 12 pm
    • Afternoon Session: 1 pm – 5 pm
  • Activities will include
    • Arts & crafts
    • Game center
    • Splash pad
    • Trampoline park
    • And much more

Lexington Life Academy – East Mesa

  • Tuesday, June 1st – Friday, July 23rd
  • 2 sessions daily (Monday – Friday)
    • Morning Session: 8 am – 12 pm
    • Afternoon Session: 1 pm – 5 pm
  • Activities will include
    • Arts & crafts
    • Board games
    • Water Play
    • And much more

Lexington Life Academy – Phoenix – Maryvale & South Mountain (Laveen)

  • Tuesday, June 1st – Friday, July 23rd
  • 2 sessions daily (Monday – Friday)
    • Morning Session: 8 am – 12 pm
    • Afternoon Session: 1 pm – 5 pm
  • Activities will include
    • Arts & crafts
    • Board games
    • Water Play
    • And much more
  • Cost
    • Option 1
      • Covered under DDD Services (DTS Services must be in the students’ ISP)
    • Option 2
      • Private Pay at $13 per hour

Also, check out our Spanish flyer!

Lexington Life Academy – Show Low

  • Tuesday, June 21st – Friday, July 15th
  • Monday – Thursday
    • 9 am – 1 pm
  • Activities will include
    • Gardening
    • Kickball
    • Freeze tag
    • Water day
  • Cost
    • Option 1
      • Covered under DDD Services (DTS Services must be in the students’ ISP)
    • Option 2
      • Private Pay
        • 1:1 at $50 a day
        • 4-6:1 at $25 a day

Please note for ALL Lexington Campuses

DTS covers ONLY morning sessions. Any combined sessions will be considered a full day of Respite Care. Field trip costs are not covered by DDD Services and will require additional payments.

COVID-19 Protocol

All of our Lexington locations will follow COVID-19 protocol to ensure students are having fun and being safe all summer long. Our goal is to continue providing the critical services our members and students with disabilities and special needs greatly rely on.

For more information on Lexington Services COVID-19 Protocol, please click here.

Transportation

Transportation will be offered on a first-come, first-serve basis if available on that campus. 

For more information on all the summer programs, visit us at Lexington Services.

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Lexington Services Expands to Utah

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Lexington Services has expanded its services to Utah.

Having first met in 2020, Founder and CEO Harrison Rogers spoke with James Stubbs, a Utah Local, about potentially expanding Lexington Services to the state of Utah. Stubbs was immediately excited about the idea of serving individuals and their families who often find themselves underserved in our society.

“I couldn’t be more excited to have James leading our Utah expansion. He has a stellar track record of helping grow mission-driven organizations of different sizes,” Rogers said. “Most importantly, he has a passion for our specific mission and the families we serve. I can’t think of a better partner for this phase.” 

Available In-Home Services

Lexington Utah will begin with In-Home Services and will soon add ABA Therapy to their list. 

Lexington Services is currently contracted with the Division of Services for People with Disabilities (DSPD) to provide in-home services in Utah. They will start in Davis, Salt Lake, and Utah counties. 

Services that will be offered include:

  • Respite: provides relief to the Person’s usual caregiver
  • Companion Services: one-on-one non-medical care, support, socialization, and supervision, including assistance with daily household tasks and accessing community services and resources 
  • Personal Assistance Services: personal assistance and supportive services specific to the needs of the Person, including daily living care
  • Supported Living Services: Supporting the member to live as independent, self-determined lives as possible, integrated into their community. Examples include personal care (e.g., eating, bathing, and dressing), homemaker and chore tasks, advocacy and self-help, communication and socialization, personal finances (e.g., keeping track of money and bills), and accessing community services and resources

Lexington Services Utah is also a member of the Utah Association of Community Services, a non-profit organization “with over 40 member agencies in Utah [that] serve over 5,000 people with developmental and other types of disabilities in over 400 locations throughout Utah.”

Meet James Stubbs

Stubbs graduated with an MBA from Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and received his undergraduate degree at Brigham Young University. He focused on mission-driven internships to serve underrepresented or underserved populations, including: 

  • social impact investing
  • small business workshops for local Native American business owners
  • access to higher education for first-generation students, cultural minority, or of low-socioeconomic status

Stubbs’ career spans various finance and strategy roles across multiple industries and business models, including durable goods, manufacturing, consumer packaged goods, health insurance, and religious/non-profit. 

“Throughout my career and education, I have come to recognize that business is one of the best vehicles to positively impact not only our world as a whole, but also the lives of individuals,” said Stubbs. “Lexington Services has a strong track record of providing successful services to those with autism spectrum disorder and developmental disabilities, and I am excited to carry on its reputation to Utah.”

For more information regarding Lexington Services Utah, please contact utahinfo@lexingtonservices.com or visit www.lexingtonservices.com/utah.

Lexington is very excited about this expansion and the services that are to come in Utah! Stay up to date on our social media for more updates as we grow and expand. 

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Games for Children with Autism

Children learn through play, which is why play therapy is a well-known and used form of therapy for children with autism. It can be used with a therapist or at home in a child’s daily routine. Lexington Services provides students and members opportunities to play games while also teaching them developmental, communication, and social skills.

Games are an excellent way for children to practice social skills and coordination. From board games to video games, children are surrounded with endless possibilities when it comes to playing, but some games also have an educational aspect. Card games, board games, and video games can all have an element of “a teachable moment,” even if the child is unaware.

When choosing a game, parents should remember that some games may need adapt

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ation for the child or children participating. Here is a shortlist of games that can be adapted or played as usual with children who have autism:

Board Games

Candyland

A very popular classic board game among children, Candyland requires players to choose cards from a deck to determine their next move. The game is pretty straightforward but also gives players roadblocks to keep it interesting. Players will experience losing turns and getting sent back to the previous space, depending on the card they pick. These elements will teach children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) how to manage disappointment and handle it in front of their peers.

BattleShip

Battleship is another popular classic where players are trying to sink the ships of their opponents. It is a wonderful strategy game that will teach children logical thinking and reasoning. Children with ASD will find the strategizing and planning beneficial. Battleship can also be played online against the computer or other opponents.

Card Games

Memory

Memory is a visual card game that plays on the memory of cards. Some children with ASD will excel at this game, while others may require some adaptation. To adapt the game, the player should start with four cards, making two pairs. The cards should be facing up and as the player becomes more familiar with the game, gradually add more pairs. As they understand spatial awareness and location, begin to flip a few of the cards facing down. Another fun way to play is to find cards with the child’s favorite subject, like character or insects.

War

War is a classic card game where players must understand the concept of greater than and less than. Adaptations to this game may include:

  • Providing a line of numbers from 2 -10 and the player must decide which is bigger
  • When using a 52 card deck, remove the Jack, Queen, King, and Ace, so they only use cards with visible numbers. Add them back when the child is ready.

Video Games

Minecraft

A trendy game, Minecraft is a “sandbox game that allows children to exert a lot of control over their environment.” Minecraft is popular among developing kids and kids affected by autism as they can explore unknown worlds in the comfort of their room.

New Super Mario Bros. U

New Super Mario Bros U is an excellent game to work on social skills and teamwork to reach a common goal. The game requires the player to understand how their actions and communication will affect their teammate and vis vera. As the team works together to achieve goals, they will experience more challenging levels and new strategies to pass them.

Phone App

AutiSpark: Games for Kids with Autism

Made for both IOS and Google Play, AutiSpark is a “one-of-a-kind education app for children with ASD.” The app is specially designed for those struggling to teach basic concepts and provides many well-researched, engaging, and interactive games suited for a child’s learning requirements. The type of games found on the app include:

  • Words & Spelling
  • Basic Math Skills
  • Tracing Games
  • Memory Games
  • Sorting Games
  • Matching Games
  • Puzzles

There is a wide variety of games that can be introduced and modified for all ages and development levels. The critical thing to remember is to have patience while teaching these games to children with ASD. Start slow and gradually add cards, items, or players as they become more comfortable with the concepts needed to play the game. As time goes on, a family game night might be a weekly routine.

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Lexington Therapies – Before and After

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Mesa Therapy Sensory Gym Before Renovations

Lexington Therapies is a fun and engaging atmosphere for those with disabilities to receive therapy services. Director Dallin Webster oversees the programs and therapists and has found that creating an environment for children to feel comfortable and engaged will provide the best results. 

Lexington Therapy has two locations; one in Mesa and one in Phoenix. Both centers went through renovations in 2020 to improve both the services offered and the facilities. Both renovations had different purposes, but both have beautiful outcomes and provide families better services for their children.

The Mesa location was renovated to bring more life to the center. When Lexington first moved into the building, it did not reflect Lexington. The colors were dull, and it did not “scream children.” To make matters worse, the previous sensory gym was small. The facility also lacked equipment that could better children during therapy.

In March of 2020, the opportunity came to expand the facility by connecting with the suite next door. With great support and a plan in mind, the renovations began for expansion. A wall was knocked down to join the suits, the walls were painted, and the rooms were updated to reflect the therapy they accommodate.

Now upon visiting the Mesa Therapy location, families will experience vibrant colors, a larger sensory area, and purple carpet to tie it all together. 

“For whatever reason, I love the carpet,” commented Webster. “That carpet brings it all together. It’s a fun purple, and it was a big risk when we picked that carpet out. We had no idea how it would look when it was all laid out, but now, it screams this is a place for kids and that this is a clean and safe environment.”

Disney Pixar characters line the walls, and members can experience a beautiful treasure hunt art mural along the hallway. More therapists have been hired to fill the new offices, and the music department has blossomed to the point of having a waitlist. 

The Phoenix location is no exception. The renovations there began in early fall when Webster expanded to include another part of the building. He found it was a great time to renovate the space for safety and upgrade purposes. The Phoenix location did not need more space but better functionality to utilize the space more efficiently. 

Mesa Therapy Sensory Gym After Renovations

Now, the Phoenix location has renovations and improvements both inside and out. Inside the therapy center, families will now find

  • more offices to accommodate more therapists and children
  • an expanded music department
  • an upgraded sensory room

Outside the therapy center, members will see

  • a security fence
  • freshly painted walls
  • brand new signage 
  • added security around the center

“My favorite part in the Phoenix location is what we recently did,” said Webster. “We added a new wall to create room for new employees, and I love adding members to our team. So now we can hire more people, and we can service more kids. It gives us the opportunity to help even more!” 

These renovations have made families feel safe, secure, and help ensure the high-quality services their children receive are better than ever.. Parents are seeing these spaces and know that Lexington Therapy is helping their child meet their goals and highest potential.

Meet the Director of Lexington Therapy

An Arizona native, Dallin Webster grew up the middle of three kids in Mesa and graduated from Mesa High in 2006. From 2007 to 2009, Webster served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Fresno, California. Since then, he has received his Associate’s Degree from Mesa Community College (MCC) and is currently pursuing his Bachelor’s Degree in Family and Human Development from Arizona State University (ASU). 

Director Webster is married and has two children diagnosed with autism, and attends various therapies. He enjoys everything and anything Disney and watching and playing basketball.

Since 2010 Webster and Harrison Rogers, the founder, and CEO of Lexington Services, have been close friends. During 2019, Webster was a stay-at-home father working closely with his children and assisting them in their growth through attending therapies. He was contacted and offered the Director of the Therapy program in December of that same year and has been working hard since making Lexington Therapy Services a significant staple and benefit to the Mesa and Phoenix communities. 

“I grew up in this neighborhood,” said Webster. “It brings me an abundance of humility and joy to be serving this community now in my adult years!”

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Form of Art Therapy that Works Best for Your Child

 Art therapy, also known as expressive therapy, helps clients communicate and deal with emotions and thoughts. It “combines psychotherapy, or talk therapy, with the interpretation of visual images to delve into an individual’s subconscious.” Children do not have to

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be creative or artistic to participate in art therapy. Some may feel intimidated by some art forms. All they need is the right supplies and the correct format to begin.

Brief Art Therapy Lesson

The term art therapy was created in 1942 by a British artist named Adrian Hill, although it was used long before a term was made. Hill discovered the benefits of art through painting and drawing while recovering from tuberculosis. Several writers in the mental health field during the 1940s began to write about their work using art therapy on patients. There was no training or programs for this therapeutic approach. They were guided by psychiatrists, psychologists, or other mental health professionals. 

In the mid 20th century, art therapy has become more of an established and publicly accepted therapeutic approach. Now it is used to treat a multitude of health issues such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Post Traumatic Stress (PTSD)
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity (ADHD)

Art therapy benefits people of all ages, but it can specifically benefit

  • those with learning disabilities
  • those with autism
  • those who find it hard to express emotions

Those with learning difficulties may find it hard to verbalize their feelings. At the same time, those who struggle to express their emotions can show their feelings without much verbal communication. Clients who have autism may find art therapy or creative art outlets to help distract them and calm them down.

Art therapy comes in many different forms. A therapist is trained to recognize the most appropriate tools and techniques for their clients to use to help them communicate and express themselves. There are eight main types of art therapy forms that a child could use, and that can be incorporated into their daily routine.

Painting

Painting is a common art therapy form that most are familiar with. It gives the child a free-form approach to art by creating images from a blank canvas. Painting involves using tools to help make pictures but can be done with fingers. Types of painting may include:

  • acrylic
  • watercolors
  • pray painting and much more

Note that painting may not be suitable for children who struggle with control and perfectionism.

Drawing

Drawing is another commonly known form of art and art therapy. It usually involves paper and a pencil but can include other supplies such as 

  • pens
  • pastels
  • charcoal
  • crayons

When introducing drawing, remember that some children may perceive this art form as a specialized skill and may need encouragement to begin. The child should be reminded that art therapy aims not to produce artwork but to explore emotions through art.

Writing

Writing is sometimes not viewed as a creative visual outlet. With art journaling, storyboarding, and comics, more people begin to see the benefits through writing. For art therapy, a child could write in a journal and then create art on top of the journal to “let go” of writing content. If children are struggling to write, they can use keywords to solidify their overall thoughts and feelings.

Sculpture

The sculpture is an excellent way for a child to use their hands and bring dimension to the issues they are facing. While creating a sculpture or when it is completed, remind the child that situations are multidimensional and can be approached from different points of view to find a solution. Sculptures can be made with

  • Clay
  • Paper clay
  • Paper mache

Additional tools can include

  • Carving tools
  • Decorative items, i.e., paint, paintbrushes

Collage

Creating a collage can be seen as more of a passive type of art form than painting or drawing. A collage combines multiple items that are already created or designed, such as magazine images or word titles. This form of art therapy can be more straightforward for those who struggle with communication and making decisions. A child might find making a collage less threatening and can focus more on construction. 

Creating a collage can involve a variety of supplies such as

  • patterned papers
  • magazines
  • stamps
  • paper-based substrates
  • brayers
  • adhesive
  • pens
  • pencils
  • paints

Photography

Photography is a fun way to incorporate past memories and images on a physical or digital medium. Photos have a funny way of stimulating memories and help people relive certain events. Those same photos can be used to create a positive narrative or framework. Technology makes it easy for us to take pictures and use them right there on our devices. 

Textiles

Textiles involve stuffed toys and puppets and help children who have physical difficulties using art supplies that require fine motor skills. Textiles involve using stuffed toys and puppets and add a sensory level of softness and texture and a level of safety and comfort.

Digital

Digital art is a newer form of art that is constantly developing and evolving. It can take a range of formats like

  • manipulating photos
  • creating more elaborate artistic projects using graphic software or video editing software
  • Apps for drawing, i.e., Procreate
  • Apps for coloring, i.e., Lake
  • Note-taking apps that allow you to add photos and stickers, i.e., Noteshelf
  • Journaling apps

Digital art will require a device that can handle the software or apps needed to create the art. It may also require supervision for younger children. It is a great way to look back at old artworks and see how far they have come, both with art and communications and emotional development.

Choosing the Form of Art Therapy that Works Best for Your Child

Art therapy can be done at home or with a therapist. It is essential to select the child’s correct type as some forms may negatively impact them and their progress. For example, a person who shows Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms may not do well with messy and less controllable art forms.

Therapists usually take the time to gauge the child’s interests then explore alternative options as they build trust with their child. The same can be done with parents and their children. Take note of what interests them, then find alternatives. They may like a few different art forms, and others may help them explore difficult emotions or thoughts. 

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