The Behavior Team provides tips and tricks for student success, at school and at home.
June 2025 - Social Skills
Dear Families,
Summer is a wonderful time for children to relax, play and explore new experiences. For children with Autism, it’s also a great opportunity to work on social skills in natural, low-pressure environments. Whether you’re staying close to home or attending community events, small daily interactions can make a big difference in helping your child grow socially. Below are a few practical ways you can support your child’s social development during the summer months.
Start by setting up simple playdates. These don’t need to be long—just 30 minutes with one other child can be a great start. Choose structured, familiar activities like drawing with chalk, blowing bubbles or playing a favorite board game. Before the playdate, help your child prepare by talking through what will happen or creating a visual schedule. You can even write out simple scripts together, such as “Can I play with you?” or “Do you want to take turns?” Practicing ahead of time can make real-life interactions feel more comfortable.
Use your child’s interests as natural ways to build social connections. For example, if your child loves trains, you could visit a local train exhibit with another child who shares that interest. If they’re into dinosaurs, consider hosting a dinosaur-themed backyard activity. Shared interests help spark conversations and create easy opportunities for bonding.
You can also practice conversation skills during everyday routines. Mealtimes, car rides and bedtime routines are excellent opportunities to practice turn-taking in conversations. Try using prompts like, “What was your favorite part of today?” or “Tell me one fun thing you did.” Keep the pressure low and praise all efforts, regardless of their size. Over time, these regular conversations can help build confidence and comfort with social exchanges.
Consider joining community events or summer programs that are designed for children with special needs. Sensory-friendly movie nights, inclusive library story times or special-needs camps are great places to meet other families and give your child safe spaces to practice socializing. Even a regular trip to the same park can help your child get used to familiar faces and routines.
Don’t forget to focus on the “hidden” social skills, too—things like reading body language, respecting personal space and knowing when and how to greet someone. These are just as important as talking, and you can model them at home using toys, role-play or storybooks. Puppets and action figures can make it fun and low-stress to practice these subtle but essential skills.
Most importantly, keep it positive and remember that progress takes time. Celebrate small victories, focus on effort over perfection and always be ready to model kindness and flexibility. Social growth isn’t always fast or linear, but every step forward builds your child’s confidence.
You’re doing an amazing job supporting your child, and we’re here to cheer you on every step of the way. Wishing you a summer full of fun, growth and connection!
-Anthony Hellman, Board-Certified Behavior Analyst at Celebrate the Children
Summer is a wonderful time for children to relax, play and explore new experiences. For children with Autism, it’s also a great opportunity to work on social skills in natural, low-pressure environments. Whether you’re staying close to home or attending community events, small daily interactions can make a big difference in helping your child grow socially. Below are a few practical ways you can support your child’s social development during the summer months.
Start by setting up simple playdates. These don’t need to be long—just 30 minutes with one other child can be a great start. Choose structured, familiar activities like drawing with chalk, blowing bubbles or playing a favorite board game. Before the playdate, help your child prepare by talking through what will happen or creating a visual schedule. You can even write out simple scripts together, such as “Can I play with you?” or “Do you want to take turns?” Practicing ahead of time can make real-life interactions feel more comfortable.
Use your child’s interests as natural ways to build social connections. For example, if your child loves trains, you could visit a local train exhibit with another child who shares that interest. If they’re into dinosaurs, consider hosting a dinosaur-themed backyard activity. Shared interests help spark conversations and create easy opportunities for bonding.
You can also practice conversation skills during everyday routines. Mealtimes, car rides and bedtime routines are excellent opportunities to practice turn-taking in conversations. Try using prompts like, “What was your favorite part of today?” or “Tell me one fun thing you did.” Keep the pressure low and praise all efforts, regardless of their size. Over time, these regular conversations can help build confidence and comfort with social exchanges.
Consider joining community events or summer programs that are designed for children with special needs. Sensory-friendly movie nights, inclusive library story times or special-needs camps are great places to meet other families and give your child safe spaces to practice socializing. Even a regular trip to the same park can help your child get used to familiar faces and routines.
Don’t forget to focus on the “hidden” social skills, too—things like reading body language, respecting personal space and knowing when and how to greet someone. These are just as important as talking, and you can model them at home using toys, role-play or storybooks. Puppets and action figures can make it fun and low-stress to practice these subtle but essential skills.
Most importantly, keep it positive and remember that progress takes time. Celebrate small victories, focus on effort over perfection and always be ready to model kindness and flexibility. Social growth isn’t always fast or linear, but every step forward builds your child’s confidence.
You’re doing an amazing job supporting your child, and we’re here to cheer you on every step of the way. Wishing you a summer full of fun, growth and connection!
-Anthony Hellman, Board-Certified Behavior Analyst at Celebrate the Children
May 2025 - A Guide to Picky Eaters
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Do you know a picky eater? We do, too!
Maybe you've heard things like: "My child only eats McDonald’s chicken nuggets." "Every meal turns into a meltdown—for both of us." If any of that sounds familiar, you're definitely not alone. Many of our students have very specific preferences when it comes to food, and mealtimes can quickly become stressful. The good news? There’s usually more going on beneath the surface—and some helpful ways to approach it. Why Does This Happen? There are a few different reasons a child might be super selective about what they eat: |
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- It could be developmental. Picky eating is common during the preschool years and often gets better with time.
- Sensory sensitivities play a big role. A lot of our students are especially sensitive to textures, smells, or tastes. One wrong “feel” can be a deal-breaker.
- Anxiety or fear. Trying new foods can feel unpredictable and overwhelming for some kids.
- Medical issues. Sometimes things like reflux or constipation can make eating uncomfortable—definitely something to check in with your doctor about.
- Family patterns. Kids often model what they see, including how adults around them relate to food.
What Can Help?
Make food fun (and pressure-free).
If trying new foods turns into a battle, it’s totally normal for kids to dig in their heels. Instead, try to keep it light. Something that’s worked well for many families at CTC is the idea of a “Food Adventure.”
What’s a Food Adventure?
It’s as simple as going to a buffet and letting your child explore—without the expectation that they have to eat anything. They walk around, look at what’s available, and pick what interests them. Back at the table, they can poke it, sniff it, take a bite—or just leave it. Then go back and try again. The point is exploration, not pressure.
You’d be surprised what kids will try when they feel in control. One of our students, who used to eat only a handful of foods like canned chicken and butter (but not on a bagel!), discovered she actually really liked sushi rolls. Her parents realized texture was the key factor, and it helped them offer other foods with similar textures at home.
A Few More Tips
- Let them help. Grocery shopping, washing veggies, stirring ingredients—anything that gives them a role.
- Eat together when you can. No screens, just shared time. Predictable routines help.
- Model variety. If they see you enjoying different foods, they’re more likely to get curious.
At Celebrate the Children, we know every child is different—and that includes what’s on their plate. Whether your child is already an adventurous eater or just beginning to branch out, we’re here to support you.
Here’s to less stress at mealtimes and more joyful “food adventures” ahead!
-Cynthia King, Board-Certified Behavior Analyst at Celebrate the Children
April 2025 - The Word "No"
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Helping our children learn to “follow the rules”, and to “be safety aware”, whether at home or in the community, takes time and patience.
Some of the feedback we’ve received from CTC parents include statements like, “my child won't listen to me”, or “I find myself saying ‘NO’ all day, every day”. In this month’s article, we hope to help you get your message across using situation- specific positive language that will reduce the need for you to say “no”, “stop”, “don’t”, etc. It’s really easy to say "no"… in fact it’s WAY too easy. It will probably take some practice for you to substitute the language described here, but what we have found is that by telling your child what you want them to do instead of what NOT to do you can accomplish the same goal with less resistance. |
For example, instead of saying "no," or “stop”, try phrases like, "let's do that after dinner instead," or "I hear you, and I understand what you want but..."
By changing the language, you use you are able to offer doable alternatives, keep communication open, encourage cooperation, while still setting boundaries. Here are some sample phrases you can use in a variety of situations:
By changing the language, you use you are able to offer doable alternatives, keep communication open, encourage cooperation, while still setting boundaries. Here are some sample phrases you can use in a variety of situations:
1. Offer Choices and Alternatives:
- Instead of: "No, you can't have a cookie.” Try: "You can have a cookie after dinner," or "Would you like a banana or an apple?"
- Instead of: "No, you can't play outside." Try: "We can't go outside right now, but would you like to play a game inside?" or "Let's play outside later when it stops raining."
2. Reframe using Positive Language:
- Instead of: "Don't run in the house." Try: "Please walk inside."
- Instead of: "No hitting." Try: "Please use gentle hands."
3. Empathize and Validate Feelings:
- Instead of: "No, you can't have that." Try: "I know you want that, but..." or "I understand you're disappointed, but..."
4. Distract and Redirect
- Instead of: "No, don't touch that." Try: “Let’s look at _____________” (Gently redirect their attention to another activity or object).
5. Explain Why:
- Instead of: "No, you can't do that." Try: "You can't do that because it's not safe," or "You can't do that because it's not kind.”
6. Encourage Cooperation:
- Instead of: "Take out the trash!" Try: "Let's work together, I’ll hold the door for you," or "Can you please help me carry this?"
7. Save "No" for Emergencies:
- In situations where safety is a concern, a firm "No!" or "Stop!" is necessary. For example, "No, don't touch the stove!" or "Stop, that's dangerous!"
-Cynthia King, Board-Certified Behavior Analyst at Celebrate the Children
March 2025 - Promoting Home Independence for Your Child
As parents, we want to help our children with Autism build essential life skills and become as independent as possible. Encouraging home independence is a crucial step toward this goal, and there are practical strategies that can be implemented in everyday routines. Here are some tips to help promote independence at home:
1. Create Clear, Visual Routines
Children with autism often thrive in structured environments. Visual schedules, such as charts or picture cues, can help children understand what is expected of them throughout the day. For example, you might create a chart for morning routines (e.g., brushing teeth, getting dressed, eating breakfast) so your child knows exactly what to do next.
2. Break Tasks into Manageable Steps
Rather than expecting your child to complete a task all at once, break it down into smaller, achievable steps. For instance, if they are learning to make their bed, you can guide them through the steps: pulling up the covers, straightening the pillow, smoothing the blanket. Over time, they can learn to do each step independently.
3. Use Positive Reinforcement
Praise and reward efforts, even small ones. Positive reinforcement encourages your child to continue trying new things and promotes confidence. When they complete a task independently, celebrate their achievement—whether it’s through verbal praise, a favorite activity, or a small reward.
4. Encourage Self-Care Skills
Self-care is a big part of independence. Help your child learn personal hygiene routines, like brushing their teeth or putting on clothes, by creating step-by-step guides or using visual supports. With consistent practice, they can gain confidence in managing their personal care.
5. Foster Independence with Household Chores
Start by assigning simple, manageable chores around the house. Cleaning up toys, setting the table, or putting dirty clothes in the laundry can all be appropriate tasks. Use visual aids or task lists to guide them through the process, and be patient as they learn these skills.
6. Encourage Decision-Making
Support your child in making simple choices. Let them choose what to wear, what snack they’d like, or which activity they want to do. Encouraging decision-making boosts their confidence and empowers them to take ownership of their choices.
7. Promote Social Skills and Communication
Independence also involves being able to interact confidently with others. Encourage social skills by practicing greetings, asking for help when needed, and learning appropriate conversational cues. Communication is key to navigating the world independently, and the more opportunities your child has to practice, the more comfortable they will become.
8. Be Patient and Celebrate Progress
Each child is unique, and progress may look different for everyone. Celebrate each step forward, no matter how small, and be patient. Fostering independence takes time and practice, and setbacks are a natural part of the learning process.
By incorporating these strategies into your routine, you can help your child develop greater independence and confidence in their abilities. With your support, they will build the skills necessary to navigate daily tasks and live more independently as they grow.
-Anthony Hellman, Board-Certified Behavior Analyst at Celebrate the Children
1. Create Clear, Visual Routines
Children with autism often thrive in structured environments. Visual schedules, such as charts or picture cues, can help children understand what is expected of them throughout the day. For example, you might create a chart for morning routines (e.g., brushing teeth, getting dressed, eating breakfast) so your child knows exactly what to do next.
2. Break Tasks into Manageable Steps
Rather than expecting your child to complete a task all at once, break it down into smaller, achievable steps. For instance, if they are learning to make their bed, you can guide them through the steps: pulling up the covers, straightening the pillow, smoothing the blanket. Over time, they can learn to do each step independently.
3. Use Positive Reinforcement
Praise and reward efforts, even small ones. Positive reinforcement encourages your child to continue trying new things and promotes confidence. When they complete a task independently, celebrate their achievement—whether it’s through verbal praise, a favorite activity, or a small reward.
4. Encourage Self-Care Skills
Self-care is a big part of independence. Help your child learn personal hygiene routines, like brushing their teeth or putting on clothes, by creating step-by-step guides or using visual supports. With consistent practice, they can gain confidence in managing their personal care.
5. Foster Independence with Household Chores
Start by assigning simple, manageable chores around the house. Cleaning up toys, setting the table, or putting dirty clothes in the laundry can all be appropriate tasks. Use visual aids or task lists to guide them through the process, and be patient as they learn these skills.
6. Encourage Decision-Making
Support your child in making simple choices. Let them choose what to wear, what snack they’d like, or which activity they want to do. Encouraging decision-making boosts their confidence and empowers them to take ownership of their choices.
7. Promote Social Skills and Communication
Independence also involves being able to interact confidently with others. Encourage social skills by practicing greetings, asking for help when needed, and learning appropriate conversational cues. Communication is key to navigating the world independently, and the more opportunities your child has to practice, the more comfortable they will become.
8. Be Patient and Celebrate Progress
Each child is unique, and progress may look different for everyone. Celebrate each step forward, no matter how small, and be patient. Fostering independence takes time and practice, and setbacks are a natural part of the learning process.
By incorporating these strategies into your routine, you can help your child develop greater independence and confidence in their abilities. With your support, they will build the skills necessary to navigate daily tasks and live more independently as they grow.
-Anthony Hellman, Board-Certified Behavior Analyst at Celebrate the Children
February 2025 - The Power of Silence
As a DIR® school, we embrace the principles of Drs. Stanley Greenspan and Serena Weider, recognizing that relationships and emotional connections are at the heart of learning. One powerful yet often overlooked tool in our approach is silence.
When a child is dysregulated, our instinct may be to jump in—to ask questions, offer solutions, or fill the space with words in an effort to "fix" the situation. However, sometimes, silence speaks louder than words. A quiet presence can offer comfort without overwhelming a child who is already struggling to process their emotions and environment.
Additionally, when a student is engaging in challenging behaviors, our verbal responses can sometimes escalate the situation rather than de-escalate it. Words can inadvertently add energy to an already heightened moment. Instead, strategies such as using a whiteboard for communication, incorporating visual supports, offering access to preferred sensory materials, or following individualized strategies from a child’s team can provide the structure and support needed without unnecessary verbal input.
Silence is not a void to be filled—it can be a powerful tool that fosters regulation, connection, and understanding. With consistency and thoughtful use of quiet space, we can create an environment where our children feel safe, heard, and supported in meaningful ways.
-Behavior Team at Celebrate the Children
When a child is dysregulated, our instinct may be to jump in—to ask questions, offer solutions, or fill the space with words in an effort to "fix" the situation. However, sometimes, silence speaks louder than words. A quiet presence can offer comfort without overwhelming a child who is already struggling to process their emotions and environment.
Additionally, when a student is engaging in challenging behaviors, our verbal responses can sometimes escalate the situation rather than de-escalate it. Words can inadvertently add energy to an already heightened moment. Instead, strategies such as using a whiteboard for communication, incorporating visual supports, offering access to preferred sensory materials, or following individualized strategies from a child’s team can provide the structure and support needed without unnecessary verbal input.
Silence is not a void to be filled—it can be a powerful tool that fosters regulation, connection, and understanding. With consistency and thoughtful use of quiet space, we can create an environment where our children feel safe, heard, and supported in meaningful ways.
-Behavior Team at Celebrate the Children
January 2025 - Setting Goals for Success
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While goals can be set at any time, as the New Year begins, people make resolutions to set their year up for success and make positive change in their lives. This is the perfect time to include children in this process. It's important for children to see adults trying to make those positive changes in their lives when that is often an expectation of them from those same adults. How often are we setting goals and expectations without getting input from the child themselves? No matter the age, communication style, strengths, or weaknesses, getting children involved makes it more meaningful for them, and it becomes more intrinsically motivating vs extrinsically, which creates lasting change and higher self-esteem.
It doesn’t have to be overwhelming; just one or two simple goals that can have your child feel success throughout the year can change their self views and help them throughout all aspects of their daily lives. |
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Here are a few simple ways that, as a family, you can set up goals/resolutions so everyone is striving to better themselves:
Happy New Year and Happy Goal Setting!
-Anthony Hellman, Board-Certified Behavior Analyst at Celebrate the Children
- Putting the resolutions to paper, with words or pictures (or both!) to have a visual to help remind & hold everyone accountable- maybe even adding a chart to track for each family member.
- Keep goals simple & attainable! These should be short term (year long) to be able to see & feel success.
- Set up a goal (or goals) to do as a family: big family outings once a month, a time set aside weekly to tidy up as a family, cooking together once a week, etc. Tailor it to your family.
- Keep it positive! Talk about how if a mistake is made, getting back on the right track is always an option! And as an adult, own up to your mistakes! We are all human!
- Celebrate any & all success! Big or little, we all deserve to be celebrated for making positive change!
Happy New Year and Happy Goal Setting!
-Anthony Hellman, Board-Certified Behavior Analyst at Celebrate the Children
December 2024 - All Behavior is Communication
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Photos by Shannon Kuralti.
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Every action a child takes is a form of communication, especially when verbal skills may be limited or still developing. By recognizing and validating these attempts, we open the door to more meaningful interactions and connections.
Whether it’s through vocal speech, gestures, writing on a whiteboard, or using an AAC device, all forms of communication have value. Encouraging functional communication—using these tools to express needs and desires—helps children develop the skills they need to engage more effectively with the world around them. Let’s support our children by observing, responding to, and celebrating every effort they make to communicate. Together, we can empower them to share their voices, in whatever form that may take. - Vanessa Graves Foster, High School and Y.A.P. Vice-Principal at Celebrate the Children |
November 2024 - Using Role Play and Pretend Play to Prepare for Special Outings
When going to new stores or doing a special activity that is new to your child, it is important to practice the experience first in a smaller, controlled setting. By having children role play the experience, they are more likely to know what to expect. Preparing your child by simulating certain aspects of your trip will help them be confident, flexible, and understanding of the expectations. In the role play, your child will have some control over the situation which will help ease any anxiety leading into the event. Here are some fun examples of role playing you can do with your child:
1. Librarian - Read aloud story time, scan library cards, or organize books.
2. Zookeeper - Turn over empty laundry baskets and put stuffed animals underneath. Practice visiting each animal. Practice feeding or giving water to the animals.
3. Hair salon/barber - Use a mirror with dolls or stuffed animals, spray bottle of water, brushing hair.
-Anthony Hellman, Board-Certified Behavior Analyst at Celebrate the Children
When going to new stores or doing a special activity that is new to your child, it is important to practice the experience first in a smaller, controlled setting. By having children role play the experience, they are more likely to know what to expect. Preparing your child by simulating certain aspects of your trip will help them be confident, flexible, and understanding of the expectations. In the role play, your child will have some control over the situation which will help ease any anxiety leading into the event. Here are some fun examples of role playing you can do with your child:
1. Librarian - Read aloud story time, scan library cards, or organize books.
2. Zookeeper - Turn over empty laundry baskets and put stuffed animals underneath. Practice visiting each animal. Practice feeding or giving water to the animals.
3. Hair salon/barber - Use a mirror with dolls or stuffed animals, spray bottle of water, brushing hair.
-Anthony Hellman, Board-Certified Behavior Analyst at Celebrate the Children
October 2024 - Reframing Language
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Source: Vanderbilt University
