Personalized Alternatives for Learning

02/07/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/177Qt7uYv9/

When your child is having difficulty communicating... start a phrase for them... "I need...." or "I feel...." can be so much more helpful than be so much more helpful than, "what do you want?" And "use your words"

The instruction “use your words” is not a practical strategy for autistic kids. It’s too ambiguous to be actually useful for MOST children.

Which words should I use?
In what order?
Said in which tone?
And at what volume?

Speaking as a language-abled autistic person, I have personally never been in a short supply of verbiage.
I yap so much, the whole reason I’m in NYC…is to yap - they pay me to do it!

But what I, and SO many other autistic people DO have a shortage of is…the “right” words.

A better strategy, a REAL strategy, is to teach specific phrases for common situations, rather than giving vague instructions.

So many autistic kids benefit from ready-to-use language for moments that are actually hard, like when:

▪️Something feels unfair
▪️When they lose
▪️Needing help WHILE feeling frustrated
▪️Experiencing discomfort or disappointment

We often overlook how important it is to be able to say:
“I need…”
“I feel…”
“I want…”
“Is it ok if…”

Language is a tool, and tools work best when they’re modeled, practiced, and available before the moment of distress, not demanded in the middle of it. 🖤

01/30/2026

Looking for a respite organization or support services?
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17iFBQuEK7/

01/27/2026

Unfortunately our parking lot has not yet been plowed.... AM clinic sessions are canceled. Stay tuned for updates ❄️
Stay warm

01/25/2026

PAL's offices will be closed Monday Jan 26 due to the snow and ice. We anticipate keeping virtual appointments at this time, but your therapist will update you if that changes due to power or internet issues. Enjoy the snow and be safe!

01/24/2026

01/01/2026

Wishing you and yours a happy and healthy new year!

12/24/2025

Did you know community is one of the core values of PAL?
Our team regularly give their time, talents and resources to support organizations and events in the area, and today they started a new Blessings Box. Take what you leave, leave what you can. The box will contain food and hygiene items for those who need it. Stop by and check it out

12/23/2025

Sleep is one biggest struggles for many, but here is some helpful advice
https://www.facebook.com/share/1AerUDmRTk/

Sleep is one of the most misunderstood parts of autistic life.

Research consistently shows that autistic individuals are far more likely to experience chronic insomnia, delayed sleep onset, fragmented sleep, and irregular circadian rhythms.

Autistic brains often stay in a heightened state of alertness due to things like sensory sensitivity, anxiety, and perseverative thinking.

And then for some, myself included, there’s the rebound effect.
(Hence my bangs demonstrating just how good I slept 😅)…

After prolonged periods of poor or absent sleep, the body eventually crashes.

So if your person struggles with sleep, here’s some general best practice:

▪️Prioritize predictable routines

▪️Build in enough stimulation and movement during the day.
Many autistic children and adults are far more sedentary than their nervous systems are designed for…especially when support needs, screen time, or limited access to inclusive activities reduce opportunities for movement. When the body doesn’t get enough physical input, the brain often stays alert at night.

▪️Reduce sensory input at night (lighting, sound, clothing, temperature)

▪️Support regulation before bedtime, not just at bedtime (for some this looks like quiet time, for others, exercise can be helpful)

To parents dealing with sleepless nights:
Sleep deprivation is brutal, and it’s not your fault. Helping autistic people sleep better often means supporting the whole day, not just the bedtime routine.

Remember that progress may be slow, but it is possible! 💜

12/01/2025

Celebrating uniqueness and authenticity while helping children grow.... this is why we do what we do!

11/27/2025

We are so thankful for our friends, family, and community. We look forward to continuing to walk this road with you all.

11/02/2025

10/31/2025

Have a safe a fun Halloween!
Our students are getting older and sweeter everyday!