This was our family’s first IMAX immersive viewing experience, and like with any first, we carefully considered what Michael might or might not be prepared for. Yet, as with many new experiences, it often comes down to trial and error. The advanced projection system, which projects high-resolution visuals onto a curved surface to make viewers feel part of the action, paired with the surround sound system, creates a sensory-rich environment. While Michael has shown tolerance and enjoyment for such sensory stimulations in various other settings, full immersion wasn’t entirely possible for him this time. However, he did engage and communicate to a certain extent, which was encouraging. Ultimately, it became necessary for us to make the decision to leave the experience early, prioritizing Michael’s safety and comfort. 🎬 You can find our full mini-vlogs from the holiday gathering, along with more exclusive content, on the Subscribers page 👑. 📔eBook on Joint Attention & collection of activities, link in BIO 🔗 📔[NEW] eBook on a collection of activities for Speech Exercises, link in BIO 🔗 #heartwarming #cute #parenting #autism #nonverbal #nonspeaking #ASL #signlanguage #representationmatters #handsome #toddlermom #autismadvocate #autismparenting #inspiration #motivation #autismawareness

🎉#Happy #newyear , everyone! Wishing you all a bright and joyful start to the year. I hope you enjoy this adorable handshake as much as I do—it’s one of my many favorite moments from our Christmas reunion. 🎬 You can find our full mini-vlogs from the holiday gathering, along with more exclusive content, on the Subscribers page 👑. Thank you for being part of our journey, and here’s to an amazing year ahead! 🥂 📔eBook on Joint Attention & collection of activities, link in BIO 🔗 📔[NEW] eBook on a collection of activities for Speech Exercises, link in BIO 🔗 #heartwarming #cute #parenting #autism #nonverbal #nonspeaking #ASL #signlanguage #representationmatters #handsome #toddlermom #autismadvocate #autismparenting #inspiration #motivation #autismawareness

By incorporating gift unwrapping into his routine year-round since he was a toddler—not just on special occasions—and pairing it with screen content while introducing one new participatory element each Christmas season, such as traditions centered around the tree or his stocking, we’ve gradually helped Michael build his understanding of Christmas to where it is today, even though he doesn’t fully comprehend it yet. The repetition of decorating the tree, unwrapping gifts, and exploring his stocking has allowed him to engage with the holiday in ways that bring him meaningful joy. Next year, we’re looking forward to introducing another small tradition while preserving the consistent routines of previous years, continuing to nurture his love for Christmas. 👑 Catch all the exclusive, on-the-go stories and insights into our daily approach to education and therapy on the Subscribers’ Page. 📔eBook on Joint Attention & collection of activities, link in BIO 🔗 📔[NEW] eBook on a collection of activities for Speech Exercises, link in BIO 🔗 #heartwarming #parenting #autism #nonverbal #nonspeaking #ASL #signlanguage #representationmatters #handsome #toddlermom #autismadvocate #autismparenting #inspiration #motivation #autismawareness

Michael is beginning to blend vowel and consonant sounds into simple syllables and words! This is an important milestone in his language skills as he works toward more complex speech and his ability to articulate and form sounds together. 📌Many people ask me why I still co-sleep with Michael, and this is one of the many reasons why. From the moment he wakes up until we go to sleep, there’s always that “one more thing” I don’t want to miss—whether it’s a new word, a small breakthrough, or a meaningful moment of connection. Some studies and parenting philosophies, particularly those rooted in attachment theory, suggest that co-sleeping can be beneficial and safe until the age of 7, as long as both the child and parents are comfortable with it. Ultimately, it’s a choice that reflects both his needs and my commitment to ensuring the maximum benefit for his emotional growth and development. 👑 Catch all the exclusive, on-the-go stories and insights into our daily approach to education and therapy on the Instagram Subscribers’ Page. 📔eBook on Joint Attention & collection of activities, link in BIO 🔗 📔[NEW] eBook on a collection of activities for Speech Exercises, link in BIO 🔗 #heartwarming #parenting #autism #nonverbal #nonspeaking #ASL #signlanguage #representationmatters #handsome #autismadvocate #autismparenting #inspiration #motivation #autismawareness

This is a glimpse into what LRE (Least Restrictive Environment) means to us and why we chose the path we’re on today. For us, LRE isn’t just a principle—it’s a core approach that influences every decision we make, from his education to his therapy and daily life. We believe that true learning and growth occur in environments that encourage independence, foster authentic interactions, and reflect real-world experiences. 📌 Our choice wasn’t about following conventional methods, but about finding what truly supports his development and empowers him to thrive in a world that often prioritizes standardization and conformity. This means that we often learn alongside him, navigating life and its challenges together as we go. While this path comes with its challenges too, we are confident it offers him the best opportunity to reach his full potential. 👑 Catch all the exclusive, on-the-go stories and insights into our daily approach to education and therapy on the Instagram Subscribers’ Page. 📔eBook on Joint Attention & collection of activities, link in BIO 🔗 📔[NEW] eBook on a collection of activities for Speech Exercises, link in BIO 🔗 #heartwarming #parenting #autism #nonverbal #nonspeaking #ASL #signlanguage #representationmatters #handsome #autismadvocate #autismparenting #inspiration #motivation #autismawareness