The fabulous Sue Finnes

My takeaways from the talk Sue gave at conference. This pillar of strength is so inspiring. Here are some of my notes: 

The goal is to empower the parents. Parent's are the main stay for the person with autism. You are there for life. Others will come and go. The worst feeling for a parent is the feeling of a lack of control. And information gives the parent the power to feel in control . Unlocking voices gives information, support and it creates a non-judgmental environment where people can come together and ask questions and share experiences. It comes down to teaching the parent -it is key. As providers we need to always be telling the parent what is happening as well as why. Parent's feel free to ask...

In reality...communication comes from the lesson. There will be different tolerances and it needs to be  individualized, personalized and to build skills. The biggest results come from the lessons. As I sat and listened to Sue, I took in one of the lessons she had with Chris. She stopped in the middle of a lesson and said...let's stop and look at this word.....and then discussed it at length. I have already incorporated it in my lessons and it brings about thoughts and voices.  It shows how the brain grows with use, regular opportunities, consistent practice all come together to bring on cognitive stimulation. 

Powerful: this was on the screen at the beginning. Resonated throughout: 

Message from Chris

Make the most of your life

Wasted minutes turn into

Wasted hours and days

Which become wasted years.

Time is too precious to lose. 

Savour each moment

As if it were a mouthful of a delicious meal

Reap the pleasurable seeds which grow. 

When you find a purpose in your life,

And learn to love it.