In the realm of autism advocacy, Tamarsha C. Alexander stands out as a beacon of hope and innovation. Graduating from Clayton State University, she embarked on a journey that would not only transform her own life but also the lives of countless families grappling with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As the founder and visionary behind the Ausome Life Institute, Tamarsha brings forth a wealth of experience and a profound understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with autism, particularly in communication.
Tamarsha's personal journey began with the diagnosis of her son as Level III Severely Autistic at the tender age of three. This pivotal moment thrust her into a world of uncertainty and difficulty, where everyday tasks became daunting due to non-verbal communication and aggressive behaviors stemming from autism symptoms. Determined to bridge the communication gap and connect with her son's world, Tamarsha embarked on months of research and soul-searching. It was through this arduous process that she discovered the power of empathy, patience, and alternative holistic approaches to communication.
One symbolic moment that marked Tamarsha's journey was when she donned the Big Blue Bodacious Wig, a gesture that signified her willingness to step out of her son's shadow and enter his world. This act of empathy and understanding laid the foundation for the Ausome Life Institute, serving as a constant reminder of her son's journey and the transformative power of connection.
At the heart of the Ausome Life Institute lies a mission to assist families in overcoming the myriad challenges associated with caring for individuals with autism. Through a range of services, including 1:1 alternative holistic care and online educational courses, Tamarsha and her team provide support and guidance to families seeking a better understanding of autism and its impact on communication.
In honor of Autism Awareness Month, Tamarsha has partnered with organizations like Autism Branches, Inc. to organize events such as the Annual Autism Sensory Festival. These initiatives not only raise awareness but also foster a sense of community and support for families navigating the challenges of autism.
Central to Tamarsha's approach is a set of invaluable tips for helping autistic children build communication skills:
- Understanding Emotional Patterns: Recognize the signs of emotional readiness in your loved one by identifying moments of meltdown or shutdown.
- Sensory Awareness: Be attuned to your child's sensory needs and understand when they might be experiencing overload, indicated by behaviors such as stimming.
- Eye Contact: Monitor your child's eye contact as an indicator of their receptiveness to communication, aiming for strong eye contact in 10-minute increments.
- Patience and Self-Care: Recognize that being an Ausome parent requires patience and self-reflection. Make time for self-care to better support your child.
- Nutrition: Understand the role of nutrition in your child's health and communication development. Utilize resources like the Nonverbal to Verbal Starter Diet Guide for guidance.
- Setting Boundaries: Don't hesitate to set boundaries and trust your instincts as a parent. Your child relies on your guidance and support.
- Community Support: Seek out support groups and communities to connect with others on similar journeys. You're not alone in navigating the challenges of autism.
Through these tips and her unwavering dedication, Tamarsha C. Alexander continues to pave the way for families to live an Ausome life, where communication barriers are overcome, and connections are forged. As we celebrate Autism Awareness Month, let us join Tamarsha in her mission to create a more inclusive and understanding world for individuals with autism and their families.
For more info, head over https://ausomelifeinstitute.com/!
