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