Oral health is a very important component of healthy daily living. But for some children with autism, oral health habits can be challenging.

Our hope is this guide will provide information for families to help begin a lifetime of good oral care.

To get started, you and your child should pick out the right toothbrush.

There are many colors, styles and types available. It is important that the brush is the right size for your child’s mouth and that it has soft bristles. For some children with Autism, brushing teeth can be difficult. The sensation can be uncomfortable at first, and the child may need to be desensitized.

You may want to start by using the toothbrush to touch your child’s lips or just inside the mouth.

You may also want to teach your child to “open wide,” so that this direction is understood. Showing your child how you brush your own teeth may also be helpful. See the complete guide at www.autismspeaks.org/docs/family_services_docs/DentalGuide.pdf.

 

“Telling Your Story” iPad App

“Telling Your Story” is a tool that people with disabilities, family members, and other advocates can use to compose and practice the personal story they’ll present to elected public officials or other policymakers at all levels of government when seeking policy changes or increasing awareness about disability issues.

The app guides users through the steps, from introducing yourself to identifying the specific issue to the best methods for presenting a compelling personal story.

After entering the text of your story, an audio recording feature allows the user to rehearse their story. Users can also select and preview a photo they may wish to include.

You can view the app in the iTunes Store at itunes.apple.com/us/

app/telling-your-story

/id541403749.

Upcoming activities

Monday: Summer Sizzler Dance, 6 to 8 p.m.

Tuesday: Circle of Friends Social Club, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Wednesday: Open Center, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Thursday: Special Olympics Bocce, 4 to 5 p.m.; Special Olympics Softball, 6 to 8 p.m.

Saturday: Self-Advocates Minnesota Conference, Noon to 9 p.m. at St. Olaf Lutheran Church

 

Jamey Helgeson is the Program Director at The Arc Mower County and can be reached at jamey@arcmowercounty.org or by calling 507-433-8994, Extension 102. You can also visit our website (www.arcmowercounty.org) and follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/arcmc).