Ep. 61 Understanding Autism with Gary Martinez Jr.

Gary Martinez is a father of two, an inspirational speaker, the author of Living Life Through Their Eyes, Our Journey Together On the Autism Spectrum, a personal trainer, and he runs the S.T.A.R. Program, which is a digital Autism Course.

Signs of Autism He Noticed in his Daughter: 

• She didn’t respond to people
• She was non-verbal
• Her play was very lined up and organized
• She was very repetitive

How He Helps His Daughter Thrive: 

• Allows her to have to her own space
• Knows she may not be able to make eye contact
• Learns about what she is fascinated with
• Allows lots of play breaks
• Offers physical space for moving her body
• Uses the outdoors and music heavily
• Tries to avoid overstimulation of the senses

How the Outdoors Has Helped His Daughter: 

• Got her comfortable walking on uneven surfaces
• Comfort found in the outdoors, especially areas she knows
• Repetitive motions are enjoyed, such as swings

Some Tips on Meltdowns: 

• Reduce meltdowns by offering play breaks as many times throughout the day as needed
• During meltdown, let them experience it in a safe space
• Evaluate meltdown, some may require distraction (listen to his story about enacting a Disney scene), or co-regulation

References: 

• Occupational Therapist: Angie Voss – http://asensorylife.com/index.html
• Podcast: Ed Mylett – https://www.edmylett.com/podcasts/

Gary’s Call to Action is: Respect differences. Ask parents if they need any help – make a friend!

Follow Gary: 

Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn: Gary Martinez Jr
IG: @gary_martinez_jr
TikTok: @garymartinezjr

Check out KWE’s #patch4apurpose to support 1, or all 8, charities:
https://kidswhoexplore.com/product/original-explorer-patch4apurpose/

Today’s Host: @adriannaadventures & @laurenrodycheberle from @kidswhoexplore
Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music