Takiwātanga No. 52 Dayna Morris –
Navigating the Autism Journey: Insights and Strategies from Dayna Morris
Embracing Autism with Tailored Approaches, Open Communication, and Community Support
Introduction
Navigating the journey of autism can be both challenging and rewarding. In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Dayna Morris, a mother who has gracefully embraced the intricacies of raising a child with autism, and an advocate for Autism New Zealand. Her insights and experienced advice serve as a beacon of hope and practical guidance for parents and caregivers alike. This blog post will delve into several key topics discussed during the podcast, including stress relief, societal misconceptions, sensory preferences, inclusive activities, and the importance of support systems.
Tailoring Stress-Relief Activities
Dayna Morris emphasizes the importance of aligning stress-relief activities with the interests of the child. Whether it’s spending time in nature, engaging in sports, or indulging in artistic pursuits, customization is key. Drawing from her own experience with her daughter Ava, she highlights the significance of ensuring adequate rest, proper nutrition, and personal time.
The podcast host further suggests utilizing local fields for children to de-stress by running, which can be particularly beneficial for physical and mental well-being. Overall, the takeaway is clear: stress-relief strategies should be personalized to match the unique needs and preferences of the child.
Breaking Down Societal Misconceptions
One of the significant issues Dayna touches upon is the societal misconceptions surrounding autism. Comments like “she doesn’t look autistic” underscore the pervasive lack of understanding and awareness about autism spectrum conditions. Dayna passionately advocates for awareness and acceptance, emphasizing that autism manifests differently in every individual.
She recounts her mixed emotions upon receiving her daughter’s autism diagnosis, ranging from relief to anger over previous missed diagnoses. By sharing her experiences, Dayna sheds light on the importance of early intervention and accurate assessments.
Sensory Preferences and Hygiene Challenges
Sensory preferences and hygiene routines can be particularly challenging for autistic individuals. Dayna’s daughter prefers natural, slightly scented deodorants like the rose-scented deodorant from Aotear Road, while strongly disliking spray deodorants. This showcases the need to accommodate sensory sensitivities in daily routines.
Dayna also discusses her daughter’s nightly shower routine, often requiring prompts, and the willingness to brush her teeth with occasional reminders. These insights underline the importance of establishing consistent yet flexible routines.
Diet and Eating Habits
Eating habits can be particularly intricate for children with autism. Initially, Dayna’s daughter Ava was extremely selective, consuming fewer than 20 foods. Over time, her diet expanded, although it remained selective. Ava enjoys fresh fish and raw carrots but avoids red meat and most fruits and vegetables.
Ava’s food preferences often shift, a behavior known as “food jogging.” Dayna recounts Ava’s hospitalization due to pneumonia from not eating, which heightened Ava’s anxiety around food and medical environments. Strategies like using multivitamins for fussy eaters and pre-visiting new places to build comfort have been pivotal.
Handling Events and Birthdays
For many autistic children, large, noisy parties can be overwhelming. Dayna shares that Ava prefers small, familiar gatherings over larger ones. To manage Ava’s anxiety, birthday gifts are disclosed beforehand, and the traditional activities, such as being sung to, are avoided. This tailored approach allows Ava to enjoy celebrations without feeling distressed.
Inclusive Activities: Dungeons and Dragons
An inspiring segment of the podcast discusses Ava’s involvement in inclusive activities, notably her participation in Dungeons and Dragons. This environment has been welcoming and supportive, facilitating Ava’s social skills and friend-making. Additionally, Ava enjoys painting miniatures, showcasing her creativity and attention to detail.
The Importance of Support Systems
Dayna underscores the critical role of education and support systems in navigating the autism journey. She advises parents to connect with organizations like Autism New Zealand for comprehensive guidance and resources. Dayna highlights courses and programs such as the FANS course, Tilting the Seesaw, and Way to Play, all aimed at fostering better understanding and engagement with autistic children.
Additionally, she outlines the importance of tailored employment programs that consider the unique needs of autistic individuals, advocating for suitable job opportunities and workplace accommodations.
Conclusion
Dayna Morris’s insights and experiences offer a wealth of knowledge for parents and caregivers of autistic children. By tailoring stress-relief activities, breaking down societal misconceptions, accommodating sensory preferences, managing diet and events thoughtfully, and leveraging support systems, we can create a more inclusive and understanding environment for autistic individuals. Dayna’s journey is a testament to the strength, resilience, and potential within the autism community.
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