Tips and Ideas for Caregivers with Autistic Loved Ones for a Smooth Summer Trip
Summer is a time for relaxation, fun, and travel. But for caregivers of autistic loved ones, it can also be a time of stress and anxiety. Traveling with an autistic individual can be challenging, but it is possible to make the experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible with some planning and preparation. Here are […]
Giancarlo Perez
Hope For Three is honored to introduce our June Autism All-Star, Giancarlo Perez! Giancarlo is a 17-year-old student at True Knight Academy, and his kind and caring nature complements his radiant smile, which can brighten anyone’s day. Giancarlo loves going on walks, listening to music, dancing, and visiting theme parks. Giancarlo’s exceptional strengths have earned […]
Madeline Ortiz
Meet Madeline Ortiz, a compassionate and supportive force in the lives of her loved ones. Known for her unwavering dedication, Madeline has their back no matter what. As a proud mom of Giancarlo, a 17-year-old son on the autism spectrum, and a 14-year-old daughter, Madeline’s journey has been incredible! For 17 years, Madeline has […]
Anna Lozano
Hope For Three is honored to introduce our May Autism Superhero, Anna Lozano! Anna is an extraordinary mother to her three-year-old son, Zayne Thomas. When asked to identify her superpower, Anna confidently acknowledges her unmatched resilience. This strength transforms her into nothing short of a superhero for her autistic son. Anna recalls feeling prepared rather […]
Zayne Thomas
Zayne Thomas was diagnosed with autism at 18 months. Now three, he continues to be an incredibly joyful child. His infectious laughter and boundless energy bring light to everyone around him. He currently attends Fast Track ABA in Rosenberg, Texas. Zayne’s jumping enthusiasm is unmatched – he’s like the energizer bunny! When he’s not jumping, […]
Summer Activities for Your Autistic Loved One
Summer can be an excellent time to engage in activities with your autistic child, teen, or loved one. While every individual is unique, and their interests and abilities may vary, here are activities you can consider to make the most of the summer season: 1. Outdoor Adventures ● Nature Walks: Enjoy the beauty of nature […]
The Importance of Parents/Caregivers of Autistic Loved Ones Practicing Self-Care
Caring for a child or loved one with autism can be both rewarding and challenging. Parents and caregivers often devote a significant amount of time and energy to meeting the needs of their autistic loved ones, sometimes at the expense of their own well-being. However, it is crucial for these individuals to prioritize self-care for […]
Aries Atkinson
Born on November 11, 2017, Aries Atkinson was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in May of 2020 during the global pandemic when he was just over two years old. Aries came into the world as a 23-week micro preemie, weighing only 1 pound and 11 ounces. A true miracle child, Aries spent about 150 days […]
Aisha Christa Atkinson
Hope For Three is honored to introduce our April Autism Superhero, Aisha Christa Atkinson! Aisha holds numerous esteemed roles, including Instructional Leader and Acting Assistant Principal at Stafford Early Childhood Center, the esteemed 2023 Texas Mother of the Year—a title bestowed by American Mothers, Inc.—a board member for the Texas Council of Teachers of English […]
Peyton Lee
Hope For Three is proud to spotlight our February Autism All- Star, Peyton Lee! Peyton Lee is a bright and affectionate five-year-old who received an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis when he was three and a half years old. His main obstacles include developing receptive and expressive language skills and social capabilities. As his parents […]
Jinnette Smith-Jackson
Hope For Three is proud to spotlight our March Autism Superhero, Jinnette Smith-Jackson. Jinnette embodies resilience, openly embracing the challenges that come with parenting an autistic child. Her steadfast determination not only sustains her family but also elevates her to superhero status in their eyes. The moment Jinnette and her husband received Peyton’s autism diagnosis […]
Empowering Autistic Children for Financial Independence
Navigating the complexities of financial independence can be particularly challenging for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It’s essential for parents and caregivers to equip their autistic child with the necessary tools and knowledge to handle daily money transactions and, eventually, larger financial responsibilities. This guide aims to offer strategies and insights for teaching autistic […]
The Importance of Mental Health in Families with Autistic Children and Loved Ones
Mental health is a crucial aspect of well-being for individuals and families worldwide. When a family includes an autistic child, addressing mental health needs becomes indispensable— not only for the child but also for their siblings and parents. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by a variety of challenges, including difficulties with social interaction, communication, […]
Jackie Neely
Hope For Three is honored to introduce our February Autism Superhero, Jackie Neely! Jackie is an amazing grandmother and advocate for her grandson, Ryan. She has been Ryan’s caregiver since he was two weeks old. As Ryan developed, Jackie noticed her grandson was not meeting most of his milestones. Initially, Jackie was alarmed, but […]
Ryan Riley
Hope For Three is proud to spotlight our February Autism All- Star, Ryan Riley! Diagnosed with autism at the tender age of three, 11-year-old Ryan Riley is now a dynamic fifth grader at The Westview School. With a keen passion for math, his favorites shift as frequently as the weather in Houston. Ryan is notably […]
Ways to Enjoy the Holidays
There is no place like home… especially for the holidays. Here are some enjoyable ways to ensure that your autistic loved one has a fun and memorable break this holiday season. Home for the holidays: Ways to make sure your autistic child enjoys their break | Autism Speaks. (n.d.). Autism Speaks. https://www.autismspeaks.org/blog/home-holidays-ways-make-sure-your-autistic-child-enjoys-their-break Holidays can be […]
Robin Houston
Hope For Three is honored to introduce our December Autism Superhero, Robin Houston! Robin is a compassionate, empowering, nurturing person with her big superpower of being a fantastic wife, mom, sister, and friend. Robin has taken care of her autistic nephew, Dion, since he was two years old. People describe Robin as a strong person, […]
Dion Coleman
A true gift to all who know him: meet Dion Coleman, Hope For Three’s December Autism All-Star. With a smile that can light up any room, Dion is known for captivating hearts with his sense of humor and genuine eagerness to help others. Dion is nineteen years old and attends the Adult Transition Program at […]
Parent and Caregiver Self-Care During the Holidays
The holidays are both demanding and stressful for parents and caregivers. It is especially important to practice self-care. Author Eleanor Brown said it most beautifully; “Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.” […]
Hannah Collier
Hope For Three is honored to introduce our November Autism Superhero, Hannah Collier! Hannah is a compassionate, intelligent, caring person with her big superpower of helping special needs children, including autism, through observing, bonding with the child, and incorporating her ABA* methodologies into academic teaching. Hannah strives to know and bond with her students, find […]
Rhett Smith
November Autism All-Star Meet Rhett Smith, Hope For Three’s November Autism All-Star. Rhett is an energetic eight-year-old who was diagnosed with autism and apraxia at the age of two and a half years old. He has been in Advanced Behavioral Analysis and Speech Therapy ever since his diagnosis. While saying a single word of sound is […]
Alric and Lili Ashbrook
Meet siblings Alric and Lili Ashbrook, Hope For Three’s October’s Autism All-Stars! Big brother Alric is eight years old and described by his family as a very kindhearted, loving, thoughtful, and caring boy. He always offers to help his family share with them and enjoys assisting his mom at her bakery. He also cares […]
Autism and Halloween
Halloween is a tradition that most families have participated in for hundreds of years. Unfortunately, it can be hard on children with autism because of the bright lights and loud noises, having to say trick or treat at each home, navigating the large groups of trick or treaters and social interactions, a change in […]
Kim Ashbrook
Hope For Three is honored to introduce our October Autism Superhero, Kim Ashbrook! Kim is an admirable, caring, and strong mother of Alric and Lili, two beautiful children diagnosed with autism. She believes every mother has their unique superpower. Still, her superpower is taking care of her day-to-day tasks, homeschooling one of their children, and […]