So, here we go!

We have been using a really fun and effective exercise program in our home called the Woggler. This program is for individuals with autism as well as the entire family. The Woggler provides core control by incorporating strengthening exercises with vestibular, proprioceptive and visual exercises and by improving proficiency.

This fitness program is terrific for individuals with autism who need occupational therapy and physical therapy, for homeschoolers who need an exercise program, and for sedentary workers who need to become more active. The Woggler makes a fantastic gift of health for everyone!

Also, I have discovered an exciting hands-on curriculum for homeschoolers called In the Hands of a Child. You can choose from a tremendous variety of topics in any order to meet the educational needs, learning styles, and interests of your child. Each topic can be easily adaptable for elementary through high school levels. This curriculum fits perfectly with the unit study and Charlotte Mason approach to learning.

So far, my high school, middle school and elementary children have all successfully studied about bees, American Revolution, and American government making reports, notebooks, and lapbooks, respectively. My 4th grader has also used the horse study. We are planning to incorporate even more topics from In the Hands of a Child in the years to come.

I thought that this study about a possible link between autism and TV watching to be rather interesting. Yet another reason to significantly reduce the amount of television time! They emphasize that all kids need to socialize more with real people.

Isaiah 40:29-31 has been especially meaningful for me right now. "He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

I often feel that I do not have the strength to manage my children on the autism spectrum along with everything else that is going on in my life right now. I often need to remind myself that I can not do it effectively with my own strength. However, God promises to “renew” my strength if I continue to “hope in the Lord.” I encourage you to also allow God to strengthen you as you work with autism in your Christian home.

I hope that you have found this information useful.

Feel free to pass this newsletter along to others in its entirety so that it can help others, too.

Also, make sure to check out Autism in the Christian Home website and Autism Blog.

Take care,