Fundraising!

Dear Friends and Family,
Our son Matteo Chavez has autism, a disorder involving a spectrum of symptoms causing
impaired and delayed learning, and difficulties with impulse control and social skills. We are seeking a service
dog for Matteo, The service dog agency, Autism Service Dogs of America is a non profit
organization located just outside Portland, Oregon. The donation level required for the dog is $13,500. Our
family kindly asks that you help us in raising funds to provide Matteo with an ASDA service dog
specifically trained to assist children with autism.
An ASDA service dog will assist Matteo by helping us assure Matteo is safe when we leave
our home. It is difficult to have Matteo in public, he has no sense of danger and often darts into
streets, parking lots and has been known to run away. Having a service dog with Matteo will help keep
Matteo safe while we are out in public. Also the dog will serve as an emotional anchor calming Matteo
in public. Other families who have received these dogs report an increase in speech because the child
talks to the dog as if he were a friend. Families that have received these type of dogs also report their child’s
classroom learning and on task behavior improves with the presence of the service dog. While the benefits of
service dogs for children with autism vary from child to child, early results indicate that children served by a
trained service dog demonstrate marked improvement in mood, socialization, learning and general psychological
and sociological development.
To learn more about autism service dogs and Autism Service Dogs of America, please visit the website,
www.autismservicedogsofamerica.org. We appreciate your generosity and support in our fund raising efforts.
Please write Matteos name in the memo section of your check or money order so your donation will be
credited to the account of our son,Matteo , Your donation is greatly
appreciated. Please make your check payable to ASDA and mail it to our address or ASDA directly as listed
below. Or you can make a donation online

http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/Matteosworld/asda
Thank you,
Kelly Barriga Chavez
ASDA
4248 Galewood Street, Lake Oswego, OR 97035
PH: 503 675-4340
www.autismservicedogsofamerica.org
ASDA’s Federal tax identification number is 71-0888906

Natural Cures for Autism? Have you tried any?

Just hearing the word autism can send chills up somebody’s spine. This awful disease seems to be affecting more and more children, and the predicament is a sad one.
This brain disorder prohibits communication, social interaction, or even repetitive actions. It’s sad indeed as children suffering from autism seem to be tracked in their only little world, not a part of the one around them.
Special care must be given to any child suffering from the diagnosis of autism and it can be lifelong care which can be tough on the child as well as the family.
There is much debate about what causes autism, as well as some deep controversy as to if certain immunizations can contribute to the likelihood of it showing up in children.
Whatever the cause or genetic predisposition, autism is a very difficult disorder to deal with. Most families are told that heavy medication will help in dealing with the symptoms of autism, though there is no known cure.
However as autism has been in the spotlight so much lately, there is a lot of discussion about natural or alternative cures for this disorder.
Many parents search for home remedies to help ease the burden that autism can often cause.

There are a variety of different diets that are said to help ease the symptoms of autism.
One of the most popular includes the avoidance of any refined sugar whatsoever—no white bread or pasta, no sugar, no white flour, no junk food or caffeine of any kind.
It is said that a natural diet that focuses on foods from the earth free of any additives or preservatives can be a great natural aid for autism, though there is some discussion as to where this can lessen the symptoms or eliminate the condition altogether.
It is also recommended to eat all gluten-free and dairy-free products as a safety measure as well.

Fish Oil:

The Omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil or fish oil supplements is said to provide some rather drastic help with the disorder.
The compounds in fish oil can help with sleep patterns, social interaction, and the health of the child.
This supplement should be provided each and every day as a natural cure for autism.

Music:

Music therapy has become a very popular home remedy in dealing with the effects of autism.
Music is very calming to children with autism and can relax the senses and allow the child to verbalize by singing along with the words.
Music can do wonders as a natural cure and can allow the child to relax their busy minds and open up their senses.

 Has anyone tried these? Because Personally Music calms Matteo alot, and so does swinging.

(This is not all my information)

I know a Little boy!

I know a little boy
He’s just adorable you see,
A person wouldn’t know by looking,
That he has a disability.
He has to practice and practice
To learn even the smallest things
Tasks that come easily to children developing typically.
Doctors call it Autism or ASD.
It means his brain is wired different and
He learns things better visually.
So make your directions short and precise
So his dependence on you will fade with time.
Patience, love, support and understanding
Is all that he is asking.
So when you meet this little guy
Smile and wave “Hi!”
His and your hard work
Will be worthwhile
When you get to see that charming grey eyed smile.

Scentsy ,Scentsy Buddies are AMAZING for sensory

The Scentsy Buddy is the perfect cuddly companion, always ready with a big dose of comforting fragrance. Just insert a Scent Pak into its zippered pocket to bring your Buddy to life with scrumptious scent! For children ages 3 years and up. Each includes one Scent Pak.

https://kellychavez.scentsy.us/Buy/Collection/785 all Profit will go to Funding for Matteos service dogs trainer to come here to Lewis center Oh for a week and train Matteo and I, as well as the school.

there are wick less candles and warmers , layers is also GREAT pamper yourself!!!!

Matteo's Update

Today is A good Day Matteo started back to school and He is feeling so much better on March 02,2012 he had His tonsils and adenoids out and tubes put in his ear, Everything went smooth ,but the next day we couldn't get him to drink and his diapers were dry, so we started to worry. That afternoon he was sent home, where fighting with him was getting overwhelming to give him his meds so he wouldn't be in Pain, Once he started to drink a Little we would sneak it in his juice it started to work ,Now he is back to his self ,I'm glad its good to see wet diapers and to see him eat again, ALSO, its good to see him hear better ,have better balance, his voice be more clear, and to see him not snore like a 300lb man and breath better!! =) I must say Feb was a ugly month I'm so glad its March the tonsils was the only hospital visit This month and i can live with that lol.
Our new aid Amal Starts today also i get 15 hours a week and ima take it and run =)
Have a great week

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind."

Matthew 22:37

Kelly

Gluten-Free Recipes

This recipe comes to us from J. S. Weihofen.
Homemade Gluten-Free pasta
1/3 cup tapioca flour
1/3 cup cornstarch
2 tablespoons potato starch
½ teaspoon sea salt
1 tablespoon xanthan gum
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Combine flours, salt and gum. Beat eggs lightly and add oil. Pour egg mixture into flour mixture and stir. This will feel much like pastry dough. Work together into a firm ball. Knead for a minute or two. Place ball of dough on your bread board and roll as thin as possible. One pasta book suggests you should be able to see the board through the dough. The dough is tough and although almost transparent, will still handle well. Slice the noodles into very thin strips or if using for lasagna, into 1-1/2 x 4 rectangles. The pasta is now ready to cook or to freeze uncooked for later use. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water to which 1 tablespoon of oil has been added, for 10 to 20 minutes depending on the thickness and the size of your pieces. You will have to test for doneness. Makes 3 servings as noodles alone and 5 to 6 servings in a mixed casserole.
SPAGHETTI: Use the spaghetti cutter on your pasta machine. Cook for 10 minutes in boiling salted water to which a tablespoon of oil has been added.
CHOW MEIN NOODLES: Make the pasta and cut as if for spaghetti. Then cut these strips into 1 to 1-1/2 pieces. Drop uncooked into hot oil and cook for a few seconds (they will probably take less than 1 min). Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Then use immediately or freeze. Makes about 5 to 6 cups chow mien noodles.

Night Runner!

Went to bed really early last night of just plain exhaustion ,had a early day yesterday went grocery shopping,sent out my Valentine gift exchange ,cleaned did laundry, Matteo got home at noon and proceeded to dump my clean laundry out and throw it in the air , it was about 2 loads he did that to , so I had to re fold everything LOL hes silly then he says as I'm folding, (what doing mom) So I hit the bed early around 1:00 am i hear the ceiling fan turn on and him say (WOW) then he flips all the lights on, so now I'm up I go make him a cup and try to lay him down but he was not having it , so he stayed up till close to 5:00 am .Ill be turning in early again tonight since I really didn't sleep last night.
I find myself staring at him alot thanking god hes mine.

 Hes doing so well, Yesterday as we went up the steps he was moving so fast and told him slow down baby and he did!!! So we are reaching goals that is one of my main goals!!!

Diapers!!!

Diapers are expensive!
If you child has Autism you can get them free from Medicaid I get 10 packs of pull ups and a 80 pack of size 6's I also get 12 bags of  bed liners 9 of which are washables!!! Here is a list of states that offer diapers!!

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Arizona
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kentucky
• Maryland
• Minnesota
• Mississippi*
• Montana
• Nebraska*
• New Hampshire*
• New Jersey*
• New Mexico
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• Utah
• Texas
• Tennessee
• Vermont
• Virginia
• Washington
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

I hope this helps!

Curity® Training Pants for Big Boys & Girls

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Curity® Training Pants, formerly RunArounds™, combine the look and feel of real underwear with the protection needed for potty-training toddlers. These are the same “Clifford the Big Red Dog” toddler pull ups made by Covidien that are found in many retail stores. (Note: Designs may vary from pictured) Gender specific options enhance wearer acceptance. Soft, stretchable sides and waist for comfort and fit. Leg gathers and leak barriers for improved protection. Tear-away sides for easy removal. Colorful Clifford appliques identify front from back and help ease transition from diapers

Symptoms of Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorder

(This is not my Personal Information)

 

 

Does my child have autism or PDD (Pervasive Developmental Disorder)?

According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development's Autism Facts, "a doctor should definitely and immediately evaluate a child for autism if he or she:

• Does not babble or coo by 12 months of age
• Does not gesture (point, wave, grasp, etc.) by 12 months of age
• Does not say single words by 16 months of age
• Does not say two-word phrases on his or her own (rather than just repeating what someone says to him or her) by 24 months of age
• Has any loss of any language or social skill at any age.

Are there other possible symptoms of autism and PDD?

"There are a number of things that parents, teachers, and others who care for children can look for to determine if a child needs to be evaluated for autism. The following "red flags" could be signs that a doctor should evaluate a child for autism or a related communication disorder.

• The child does not respond to his/her name.
• The child cannot explain what he/she wants.
• Language skills or speech are delayed.
• The child doesn't follow directions.
• At times, the child seems to be deaf.
• The child seems to hear sometimes, but not others.
• The child doesn't point or wave bye-bye.
• The child used to say a few words or babble, but now he/she doesn't.
• The child throws intense or violent tantrums.
• The child has odd movement patterns.
• The child is hyperactive, uncooperative, or oppositional.
• The child doesn't know how to play with toys.
• The child doesn't smile when smiled at.
• The child has poor eye contact.
• The child gets "stuck" on things over and over and can't move on to other things.
• The child seems to prefer to play alone.
• The child gets things for him/herself only.
• The child is very independent for his/her age.
• The child does things "early" compared to other children.
• The child seems to be in his/her "own world."
• The child seems to tune people out.
• The child is not interested in other children.
• The child walks on his/her toes.
• The child shows unusual attachments to toys, objects, or schedules (i.e., always holding a string or having to put socks on before pants.)
• Child spends a lot of time lining things up or putting things in a certain order. (Return To Top)

When should a doctor evaluate a child for autism?

"Doctors should do a developmental screening" at every well-baby and well-child visit, through the preschool years. In this screening, the doctor asks questions related to normal development that allow him or her to measure a specific child's development. These questions are often more specific versions of the "red flags" listed above, such as Does the child cuddle like other children? Or, Does the child direct your attention by holding up objects for you to see? The doctor will also ask if the child has any features that were listed earlier as definite signs for evaluation for autism.
"If the doctor finds that a child either has definite signs of autism, or has a high number of red flags, he or she will send the child to a specialist in child development or another type of health care professional, so the child can be tested for autism. The specialist will rule out other disorders and use tests specific to autism. Then he or she will decide whether a formal diagnosis of autism, autism spectrum disorder, or another disorder is appropriate." (Return To Top)

When do children usually show signs of autism?

"Several symptoms can be seen by 18 months of age, such as poor eye contact, trouble with pretend play and imitation, delayed communication skills and problems with "joint attention." Joint attention occurs when a child points or otherwise tries to get someone to look at the same thing he is observing. Children with autism often don't point or show joint attention.
"Nonetheless, the average age of diagnosis is about three years old. Parents and doctors often are alerted to a problem when the child doesn't develop speech around age 2.
"Studies also show that a subgroup of children with ASDs experiences a 'regression,' meaning they stop using the language, play, or social skills they had already learned. This regression usually happens between the first and second birthdays.
"Researchers are still learning about the features of regression in ASDs, and whether the features differ from those shown by individuals who show signs of autism in early life." (Return To Top)

What free services are available to a child with autism?

"According to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004, the child's primary health care provider is required to refer the family to an early intervention service. In addition, children age three and older are entitled by law to a free and appropriate public education. In some states, the law extends these services to all diagnosed children from birth to age three.
"These services vary by state, but include special education and related services or treatment programs. If the child is under age three, the family should consult the zero-to-three service system in their community. The local school district can provide services for a family if the child is three or older. In either case, the local school district, the state education agency, and the local or state health departments should provide referrals for the necessary services....
"There are a number of parents' organizations, both national and local, that can provide information about education and treatment services and how to get these services for a child. For a listing of these organizations, go to Medline Plus, or check the local phone book."
AutismWeb Commentary: See our EDUCATION page for reviews of the most widely used teaching methods for young children with autism spectrum disorders. Several resources include:
Could It Be Autism?: A Parent's Guide to the First Signs and Next Steps. Nancy Wiseman explains how to find out if your child is developmentally delayed as early as four months of age. Wiseman provides checklists, discusses screening tests, and, if your child has autism, tells you how to design an effective treatment program. She says taking action is better than a wait-and-see approach. AutismWeb agrees.
See the government's "Learn the Signs, Act Early" web site for a list of developmental milestones by age.
Does My Child Have Autism? A Parents Guide to Early Detection and Intervention in Autism Spectrum DisordersProfessor Wendy L. Stone, of the Vanderbilt autism research and treatment center, and Theresa DiGeronimo tell you what symptoms to look for by age 2 or younger, and what to do if you suspect an autism spectrum disorder.
Facing Autism: Giving Parents Reason for Hope and Guidance for Help by parent Lynn M. Hamilton. Hamilton, whose son essentially recovered from autism, summarizes information on behavioral therapy, special diets, vitamins and biomedical treatments. A hopeful first book for parents of young children who don't know where to start. Good index of resources.

What if my doctor wants to "wait and see"?

AutismWeb Commentary: Sometimes a pediatrician will disagree with you about whether there is a developmental problem. He may have a "wait and see" philosophy about developmental delays, preferring to see if a child catches up on his own. Or, he may not be familiar with milder forms of autism, such as PDD or Asperger's Syndrome.
If you believe there's a problem, you may refer your child for an evaluation at your local Early Intervention office. You can find this office by calling the local health department or school system. Or, you can check this list of state early intervention offices for help finding the office in your community. The developmental evaluation is free. So is any treatment if your child is found to have significant delays.
It is better to start treatment earlier rather than later to give your child the best chance. Whether or not your child eventually will be diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, the Early Intervention Office can start helping him with developmental delays now.

The National Research Council makes a strong argument for beginning an intensive educational program as soon as autism is suspected in Educating Children with Autism. The book identifies the characteristics of effective preschools, schools and teaching methods for autism.

ASDA

Soon i'll Be flying out to do extensive training with Matteo's dog.

 Service dogs provide a physical and emotional anchor for children with autism. With their child tethered to a service dog, families feel they are newly freed to engage in activities as simple as going out to eat. When out in the community, a service dog can increase safety and make families feel secure. In many cases, the service dog accompanies the child to school, where its calming presence can minimize and often eliminate emotional outbursts, enabling the child to more fully participate in his or her school day. Transitioning among school day activities is eased and the service dog provides a focus through which the child can interact with other children. This helps increase the opportunity for the child to develop social and language skills.I believe dogs Help calm children with autism, and could be used for  calming thearpy.I think if you have a Child with autism this is something to look into!

Reaching Goals!!!

 Today we are reaching goals, Matteo had his speech therapy and he is matching at 100%!! I'm so excited to see the changes on his IEP that will take place this month sometime don't have the date yet but I'm so excited. I've worked very hard with Matteo since July and have seen a Giant turnaround. I think Matteo will still have the tendency to run off a little or jump off the kitchen table here and there, but  I'm working on with all my free time, We take walks and I try to let him walk on his own, but once he realizes hes not being held on to he bolts LOL ,Soon he will have his service dog that will help keep him safe and with lots of prayers and PT and OT we can get him to notice danger! Congrats Teo Mommy loves you

Cookies For Ipads Giving Children with autism A voice! My story

 This story will always touch me close to my heart, Its about a Momma that me and My best friend met ,Who was on a mission ,her son has autism and stopped talking. So her mission was to Provide Ipad for autistic kids , Her idea was to give them a voice. And its on fire right now, So me and my Best friend Heather got involved, we started making cookies for Cookies for ipads giving children with autism a voice!!

http://cookiesforipads.webs.com The care and love they had for our children was amazing, at first Heather Made the cookies ,I watched a little , I didn't make any cookies because she is the baker haha, So I donated money to cover 6 doz cookies.Next round I made pre mixed cookie dough they didn't turn out too bad from what i believe Melissa sold them .Then there was another bake off we were in, i was mixing and making my own ,if i wouldn't have added baking soda they would have been so good.Needless to say 15 dozen worth of cookie dough trashed, Heather rushed over to my house to show me how its done, so I figured it out and they were yummy =). After that bake off Heather got the word Little Jorge was a recipient and was getting his Ipad on Nov 12th we were so FREAKING happy, Even tho Matteo was not on the list yet , we are reaching our goal 1 at a time and to me it was Amazing. A few days after that Matteo was on the list for Nov 12th as well, YAY we were going together. Me and Heather have been friends for 17 yrs and counting we have always supported each other and we have the weirdest things in common, I'm glad shes my best friend and no one Else's . The day of the ceremony Melissa had some giveaways ,Itunes cards,blankets ,shirts,bracelets ,A KITCHEN AID MIXER, there was much more there was food everywhere and cookie galore. As we all shared tears and joy and Um food the kids were all presented. I will never forget that day, the beginning of a new journey in life!!!! Here is the video of that Day! Thank you too all those Mommas and Melissa and her Mother And everyone involved, Thank you for giving our Children a chance to have a voice. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPIZMoNnLZ4&feature=share