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AMY L. FOREMAN Publisher Editorial AMANDA MILLER Managing Editor AUSTRIA COHN VICTORIA MIKOTA MADISON VOORHIES Senior Graphic Designer MADISON GRAHAM Graphic Designer Advertising/Marketing CRYSTAL BARRETT MARTINE MELANCON RYN WHITESIDE Senior Account Executives CAMILLE CAVIN JADE GRAY JENNIFER HOFFMANN LAUREN LAUGHLIN SHANNON VICARI Account Executives Community Development TERI HODGES Director of Community Partnerships ROXANE VOORHIES Community Outreach Administration BRANDON FOREMAN Associate Editors Art/Production ALEX HERRING Chief Executive Officer LAURIE ACOSTA Director of Operations ALEXIS ALEXANDER Senior Executive Administrator SARAH MILLER Client Relations Coordinator BRITTANY DUPLESSIS Accounting Coordinator Contact Us: editorial@ familyresourcegroupinc.com Office: 3925 N. I-10 Service Road W Suite 131 Metairie, LA 70001 (504) 866-0555 A publication of
DISNEY PRINCESSES TAKE THE STAGE By Madison Voorhies Relive your VHS glory days and get the inside scoop on how Broadway stars are bringing Disney magic, music, and nostalgia to the Saenger Theatre this month. LOOKING AFTER YOUR CHILD’S SKIN By Victoria Mikota Unlock the secrets to age- appropriate skincare for kids and teens, steering clear of TikTok trends and ensuring your child’s skin stays healthy and glowing.
MONEY LESSONS EVERY CHILD SHOULD LEARN By Victoria Mikota Discover five essential money lessons to teach your children, from understanding the value of money to mastering budgeting basics. PARKINSON’S IN MOTION By Madison Voorhies Join Dance for Parkinson’s, a specialized dance class that focuses on improving strength, balance, and rhythm, all while supporting each other through their Parkinson’s journeys.
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April 2024 Issue 155
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nola family CONTENTS APRIL 2024
20
FEATURES
24 28 Camp Showcase
What’s Going on With Recycling? 18 20
22
Piecing Together the Puzzle: The Road to an Autism Diagnosis
The Rise and Representation of Autism in Pop Culture
Females are Better at Masking Autism Symptoms
IN EACH ISSUE
Spotlight Snapshots 8 1012 143136 38
From the Publisher
From the Bookshelf
Mom About Town
Out & About
Things We Love
NOLA FAMILY is published monthly by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. We cannot be responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. NOLA FAMILY Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission prohibited. Photos by Freepik.com. This publication has been designed using some assets from Freepik.com
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from the publisher
Hot Girl Summer
W ell, I did something out of the norm for me. My avoiding it, but because Mother Nature is trying to kill me with pollen and whatever else is blooming outside. We used to ride bikes around the lake, or walk while the kids rode scooters, but as I seem to get older, my body just won’t allow me outside fun anymore. If I even spend any time outside, I must immediately shower and rinse my nose out or I will likely be on a deathbed for a day or so. Yes, I see an allergist and immunologist, so I am doing all the things. So, what is hot girl summer? I honestly don’t know, but my daughter and my niece, who also lives with me, have decided that is what we are going to do. I mean, my daughter is a competitive dancer, so I am not sure what she thinks she needs husband and I joined the gym. As I am sitting here writing this, we still have yet to go. Not because I am
to work on; my niece is 22 and her metabolism still works. My daughter was teaching us her ab routine, and there is no way I can keep up. Neither one of them has my major sinus issues, so they are outside tanning and watching the UV index, while I just sit inside and work to pay the bills. Ugh, to be young and so carefree! Since I am not as young as I used to be, I have to actually work to keep my body in check. Diet alone does not work the older you get. So, while I have yet to make it to the gym, I am determined to start within the week and push myself through the first few weeks and prepare for this hot girl summer the girls are wanting. I mean I want to look the best on the beach or floating in my pool, so I guess cheers to a hot girl summer. I guess we will find out soon if I survive!
Don’t forget your sunscreen and nose sprays!
Publisher
Email amylynn@familyresourcegroupinc.com to tell me about topics you'd like to see in future issues.
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from the bookshelf
Reading books written by or about people on the autism spectrum is a fantastic way to talk to your kids about empathy, acceptance, and why being different is a great thing. This month, we’re highlighting books written by authors with autism, and they’re all available at the New Orleans Public Library.
CHILDREN
In Moonwalking by Zetta Elliott & Lyn Miller-Lachmann, punk-rock-loving autistic JJ Pankowski and graffiti artist Pie Velez stumble into an unlikely friendship. Set in 1980s Brooklyn, the two use their love of music and art to get through a tough semester until a run-in with the police changes everything in this heartwarming tale of acceptance and friendship. TEEN As she’s trying to hide her recent autism diagnosis, 15-year-old Palestinian- Canadian Jesse creates a list of goals in Something More by Jackie Khalilieh . But, Jesse is forced to go off script when two very different boys capture her attention and her heart. The Spirit Bares Its Teeth by Andrew Joseph White is set in an alternate Victorian England where mediums control the dead. Readers meet 16-year-old autistic,
made with glue, which Holly does not like. With help from family and her teacher, Holly receives the accommodations and encouragement she needs to give slime a try. MIDDLE GRADE Hannah Sharpe Cartoon Detective by Janet Tashjian & Jake Tashjian follows an 11-year-old cartoonist with autism spectrum disorder as she uses her curiosity, creativity, and amazing memory to investigate her family’s newest Airbnb resident. A Different Kind of Normal: My Real-Life Completely True Story About Being Unique by Abigail Balfe is a joyfully illustrated memoir that recounts the author’s journey growing up autistic and the challenges of navigating the “normal” world around her. This book is perfect for both neurodivergent and neurotypical kids to learn more about neurodiversity.
transgender boy Silas, as he exposes a power-hungry secret society, all while confined to a cruel finishing school designed to turn him into the perfect wife. The Asperkid’s Secret Book of Social Rules: The Handbook of (Not-so- Obvious) Neurotypical Social Guidelines for Autistic Teens by Jennifer Cook & Tim Stringer is a must-read for all 10-17-year-olds on the autism spectrum. Through witty insights into baffling social codes, this book provides inside information on social rules helpful in navigating the world around them. The library also offers volunteering opportunities for teens looking to give back to their community. Visit nolalibrary.org/teens to fill out a volunteer application or sign up for the Reading Buddies program.
Flap Your Hands: A Celebration of Stimming by Steve Asbell is a fascinating and groundbreaking picture book by an autistic creator to celebrate stims--the repetitive movements that provide focused stimulation to people on the autistic spectrum. In Henry, Like Always by Jenn Bailey & Mika Song Henry , readers follow a first grader on the autism spectrum as he attempts to navigate friendships and sudden changes in classroom routines. Too Sticky!: Sensory Issues With Autism by Jen Malia & Joanne Lew-Vriethoff is a wonderful tool to show how asking for accommodations is okay. In the book, we meet Holly, who loves doing experiments and learning new things in science class, but is worried about making slime when she learns that it’s
Kacy Helwick is the youth collection development librarian for the New Orleans Public Library’s collections and acquisitions department. Marie Simoneaux is the media and communications coordinator for the New Orleans Public Library.
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spotlight
12 APRIL 2024 | NOLAFAMILY.COM individuals, families, and professionals seeking guidance and information. Tibbetts shares, “Last year, I personally the resources needed to live fully. Tibbetts explains, “What we try to do is create connections, empowering everyone in the autism community with the resources needed to live fully.” She emphasizes the importance of centering the voices of autistic individuals in every aspect of the organization’s endeavors, ensuring inclusivity and meaningful engagement. As Tibbetts likes to say, “Nothing about us without us.” This principle has been adopted by many in the disability community to highlight the need for full and direct participation in all decisions that impact their lives, which is exactly what Tibbetts is fighting for. At the heart of ASGNO’s initiatives lies its Information and Referral Service, providing personalized support to Located within New Orleans, amidst its lively cultural tapestry and storied past, exists an advocacy organization for families and individuals affected by autism. The Autism Society of Greater New Orleans (ASGNO), under the leadership of Executive Director Claire Tibbetts, provides essential resources and tailored programming to meet the varied needs of the autism community. Established as an affiliate of the Autism Society of America, ASGNO traces its roots back to 1981. Officially incorporated in 2016 and granted 501c3 status in 2017, the organization has been steadfast in its mission to create connections and empower every member of the autism community with THE AUTISM SOCIETY OF GREATER NEW ORLEANS BY MADISON VOORHIES
supported over 700 resource requests across all channels, ensuring that people received the support they needed when they needed it.” In addition to the Information and Referral Service, ASGNO offers a myriad of programs, including inclusive community events like the Inclusive Egg Hunt, Autism Festival, Inclusive Halloween Party, and Sensory Santa Meet and Greet. This year, the 19th annual Autism Festival will be held on Saturday, April 20, starting at 11 a.m. These events foster connections within the community while providing access to local resources and services. Moreover, ASGNO hosts online social and support groups, mini-grant programs, educational opportunities, and a Vaccine Education Initiative aimed at increasing access and confidence in vaccinations and healthcare. Tibbetts is also passionate about debunking stigmas surrounding autism, emphasizing the uniqueness of each individual’s experience. She advocates for the recognition of autism as a diverse spectrum and calls for the presumption of competence, urging society to treat autistic individuals with respect and dignity always. She remarks, “Every person’s experience of autism is unique...autism is a way of being, a culture, an inseparable part of who people are.” Through education and awareness, ASGNO strives to foster an environment of acceptance and understanding. The impact of ASGNO’s programs and
events extends far beyond information and resources. Families and individuals find a sense of belonging and community, gaining confidence in their autistic identity and forming lifelong friendships. “People benefit when they understand what’s available to them. We have seen so many families and individuals gain confidence in their autistic identity and connect with others who understand them,” says Tibbetts. What sets ASGNO apart is its unwavering commitment to centering autistic voices and prioritizing inclusivity in all endeavors. Tibbetts underscores the organization’s dedication to providing support rooted in the neurodiversity movement, ensuring that every individual feels welcomed and valued. As ASGNO continues to serve the community, there are numerous opportunities for involvement and support. From volunteering at events to spreading awareness online and donating, every contribution makes a difference in empowering the autism community. ASGNO is currently on the hunt for new Board Members to become key decision- makers within the organization. While anyone is welcome to apply, Tibbetts is eager to incorporate more autistic voices into her team. “It’s really important to us that we have those voices regularly engaged in the leadership of our organization, in the materials we put out, and the programs we do,” she says. Anyone curious to learn more information about ASGNO and how to get involved can visit asgno.org.
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RENÉE LAPINO BY MADISON VOORHIES PHOTO BY LULULOVE PHOTOGRAPHY NOLA
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Occupation: Licensed Medical Aesthetician/Medical Facialist Partner: Nicholas Gernon Children: Ophelia (2) Hobbies: Pilates, working out, reading British murder-fiction, dating her partner
Aside from being a celebrity facialist, superstar mom, and Starbucks aficionado, Renée Lapino, above all, is keeping it real when it comes to sharing her story and the silly antics she gets into with her “mini-me,” Ophelia. As a born-and-raised New Orleanian, she hadn’t planned on moving back home from London, England until after discovering she was pregnant. Ophelia was born in London (hello eternal bragging rights!) but Renée knew she wanted to raise her daughter in the same streets she grew up in. Read on to discover more about her jet-setting journey and how she juggles contemporary caregiving in New Orleans.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE YOUR CAREER? RENÉE: I had really reactive skin when I was younger. If I used any new product, I would get breakouts. I went into bridal modeling in my late teens, and when you have new makeup artists using heavy makeup, you don’t really have a say over what they put on your skin. So I would break out all the time. I started getting facials once a week to keep it cleaned out and keep it as smooth as possible. I was going to school to be a child therapist at Texas Women’s, and my sister passed away. I didn’t know what I was going to do, and I took a leave of absence from school. I was telling my facialist— who I was still seeing every week— “I don’t know what I’m going to do.” She said, “Well, Renée, why don’t you do this?” So that’s how it started; my facialist said, “You should do this.” And I was like, okay, then I’ll do that. WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? RENÉE: When you change somebody’s skin, you change their life. If somebody has really bad acne, or they have really bad or even just moderate pigmentation, they don’t feel confident getting out of bed and leaving without makeup. During the pandemic when I couldn’t treat, I didn’t realize how much value I took from that. You develop such a strong relationship with your patients and you really do impact their feeling of well- being and even their appearance of well-being. And then I get messages from all my patients— especially in London— that say, “Oh my God, I need you! I can’t see anybody else!” So yeah, that’s probably what I love the most. WHAT ARE YOUR TOP SKINCARE TIPS? RENÉE: The main thing that I always have to debunk is that people will tell me, “Oh, well, I don’t need to cleanse [my face] morning and night,” or “Oh, in the morning I just rinse my face with water.” Every time you cleanse your skin, you’re removing the dead skin cells. If you don’t want to wash your face every morning, maybe you don’t get pimples, but you’re slowing down your collagen production and your new healthy cell production by doing that. So I tell everyone to wash morning and night with an oil-based cleanser. Oil-based cleansers remove dirt, debris, and oil from our skin, and they also help to hydrate our skin. Now, anyone over the age of 16, I’ll tell to
use an oil-based cleanser for at least one of their cleansers. It’s also going to remove all your makeup, and if you use the right oil-based cleanser, it’s going to deep clean any congestion. When it comes to skincare, less is more. You need to use professionally-prescribed products. Don’t just go to Sephora and buy whatever they tell you; they’re not professionals, they’re just salespeople. You want to go to a professional. We’re passionate about what we do, which is helping people with their skin. My most important tip is that there’s only so much you can do to the surface of your skin if you aren’t taking supplements. Liquid collagen is the most important thing you can take because your whole body is made out of collagen. By taking a collagen supplement, that’s where you’re actually going to feel a difference overall, and it allows your body to use that energy for your face. It doesn’t translate to: drink this, your face will look good. It translates to: drink this, your body’s going to function as best it can, which means your face will also look better. WHAT ARE SOME JOYS AND CHALLENGES OF BEING A MOM? RENÉE: I would say that every day is joy after joy. This child has just changed my whole life. She wakes up, and she has a running commentary about everything we’re doing; she asks questions; she’s very opinionated about all of it; you never know what she’s going to tell you; and she doesn’t want to do everything the same every day. It’s also challenging in a sense that I don’t think I’ve taken a bath by myself in a year, and it’s really hard to prepare food when a tiny person has to sit on the counter, sit on my hip, get down, climb up, run in the other room saying, “Mommy come with me outside!” The lack of showering alone and sleeping for more than four hours straight or going literally anywhere quickly, that’s probably the challenge: there’s this whole other person now. WHAT IS YOUR AND OPHELIA’S FAVORITE THING TO DO TOGETHER? RENÉE: We are at City Park a lot. Sometimes we ride— well, we don’t ride our bikes, I ride my bike. She hangs out on the back of it— we’ll ride our bikes over there. We’ll go to Cafe Du Monde. The whole Children’s Museum knows us. They really
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or I go have drinks with my friends, it’s something that I do that’s not with him, and it’s not with her; it’s just for me, and it’s nice. It kind of lets me feel like a
know all of our names, and we probably go there at least twice a week. Storyland is really cool. She’s finally tall enough to do some of the Carousel Gardens. She’s very, very active, and it’s just a beautiful space. Even NOMA is super friendly, and they don’t care— especially when it’s hot out— that she’s running down the hall cracking up laughing. Because we’re going during the week, there’s not that many people, so I think City Park is probably our favorite. There’s just so many options, it’s so much fun, and you get to see alligators! HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PARENTING STYLE? RENÉE: I would say officially, and because I went to school for this, it’s a mixture of authoritative and gentle. You can’t be that authoritative with [two-year- olds] because they can’t comprehend that. So if I’m like, “If we don’t leave the Children’s Museum right now, we can’t go somewhere later because you’ll be too tired. She’s like, what?” And they apparently don’t even really understand time yet. So it’s a lot of redirects and constant activities. I always have activities planned. If that doesn’t work, snacks are great. It’s gentle, but not permissive. HOW ARE YOU AND YOUR CHILD SIMILAR AND DIFFERENT? RENÉE: We’re very similar. My parents accidentally call her Renée all the time. We’re both extroverted introverts, so we love to go out and be social, but we need our time at home. I asked my partner, “How are we different?” He said, “Your only difference is in name and height.” And so I guess we are very similar. We probably butt heads because of it. But also, if she wants to go play in the rain, I’m like, why not? Let’s go play in the rain and we’ll get soaking wet, and she’ll be worn out and then whatever. So we just kind of do what we want. When you only have one child, you’re super involved in everything they do. But they also are like, “You are the end-all, be-all, and what that I should emulate.” So it’s really funny to see her with her baby dolls because everybody that sees her will be like, “She’s just a miniature Renée.” HOW DO YOU MAKE TIME TO RELAX? RENÉE: It’s become a little more tricky now that I’m about to start working again, and I’m opening this new clinic location in Covington actually. So I’ve been kind of struggling with, how do I relax? About once a week, I go do something that’s just for me. Whether it’s an appointment at Dry Bar, or I go get my nails done,
person and not just a mom. HOW HAS PARENTHOOD CHANGED YOU?
RENÉE: I’m a lot more patient than I used to be. One day I realized I had on mismatched shoes, and normally I would have been like, “I need to go home.” But I thought, “All right. Well, I have mismatched shoes, and if anybody cares about me enough that they care about my mismatched shoes, good for them.” Also, now I work out more for strength and energy than I do for my bikini body, which my child kind of trashed. So, you know, what are you gonna do? Being pregnant at 40 is hard, so I would say it’s just made me a lot more patient, a lot more chill, and just go-with-the-flow. DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR OTHER PARENTS? RENÉE: I am not an expert, but I would say that my personal philosophy is to remember that she’s only two, and she doesn’t know what she’s doing. She doesn’t know that throwing rocks at my car means I’m going to need a paint job on my car, and it’s going to be thousands of dollars. She doesn’t know that running through the house with ketchup on her hands, shrieking, laughing, is terrifying for me. Just remember that they’re only little, and they don’t understand. As much as you want to have nice stuff, it is just stuff. Realize that they’re only little once. I’m fortunate that I’m not planning on having any more [children] so I’m kind of like, “Okay, once we’re through this stage, we’re through this stage, and we’re done.” QUICK Q’S Guilty pleasure Starbucks drive-thru Girls night out or alone time at home 50/50; I need both Favorite girls night out Jolie and The Columns Favorite NOLA hangout Hotel Monteleone Carousel Bar Favorite London hangout Swift SOHO Favorite travel destinations Barcelona, the Caribbean, Greece, Croatia, Istanbul; It just depends I’m always laughing at My child The first thing I do when I wake up is Kiss my baby’s head
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What’s Going on With Recycling? BY AUSTRIA COHN
18 APRIL 2024 | NOLAFAMILY.COM Unfortunately, this rumor is true. According to the Organisation Sometimes, the discussion around global warming, plastic in the ocean, and recyclables in the landfill can feel doomsday-worthy. As a society, we do have to adjust some of our practices in order to combat climate change. Rather than sitting awake at night worrying about climate change, take a realistic (and sustainable) step to help the natural world by minimizing your plastic use and properly recycling. The Recycle Problem We’ve all probably heard the rumors that a small percentage of items that are put in the blue bin are actually recycled. W ith Earth Day right around the corner, it’s essential to discuss what’s going on in our environment. When daily life requires single-use plastic bags, styrofoam take- home containers, film popcorn buckets, and other items that are hurting the natural world, Earth Day is a time to reevaluate our habits.
for Economic Co-operation and Development, only 9 percent of plastic waste is recycled. The report found that in the U.S., 73 percent went in the landfill, 19 percent was incinerated, 4 percent was mismanaged, and only 4 percent was actually recycled. These poor statistics exist for several reasons, including it’s expensive to recycle, certain plastics cannot be recycled, and consumers are disposing of their recyclables improperly. One of the three reasons plastic waste is not being recycled is in the consumer’s control—recycling goods properly. There are three basic rules when it comes to recycling that every consumer should follow. Know the Recyclable Items If you recycle in your home, you’re not helping the environment if you’re putting nonrecyclable items in the bin. It’s always important to check if an item can be recycled. When it comes to plastic items, each one has a triangle on the bottom with a number in the middle. This
number tells you what kind of plastic it’s made out of. Numbers 1-7 can be put in the recycle bin. If you’re unsure whether an item is recyclable, take a minute out of your day and look it up. Recyclable Items: - Plastic Bottles & Containers - Paper - Glass Bottles & Containers - Flattened Cardboard & Paperboard - Food & Beverage Cans (Aluminum and Steel) Nonrecyclable Items: - Food & Liquids - Foam Cups & Containers - Green Waste - Batteries - Loose Plastic Bags, Bagged Recyclables, or Film - Clothing, Furniture, Carpet - Bubble Wrap Empty, Clean & Dry If you recycle in your home, this is an essential step: only put empty, clean, and dry items into a recycle bin.
“The truth is that plastic with food residues in or on it usually cannot be recycled. Only good quality, clean plastics can go through the recycling process,” states rePurpose Global. “Sometimes a recycling factory would perform the washing for you, but most times the plastic is deemed useless, lumped with the other trash, and thrown in a landfill or incinerator.” Waste Management suggests placing recyclables in your sink while rinsing dishes so the items are clean from residue and you minimize the amount of water needed. Don’t Bag the Recycling If you put your recyclables in a trash bag, all your hard work will be for nothing. Ironically, single-use plastic bags can’t be recycled. Instead of tossing a bag full of recyclables into the bin, empty the contents directly. It’s a small change with a big impact. Even if your heart is in the right place when it comes to recycling, you are not actually helping the environment if you do not follow these three easy rules. In addition to properly recycling, reducing and reusing materials is a great way to minimize your carbon footprint. One way to reduce is by being mindful of the products you are constantly using. Instead of buying a paper bag at the store, bring your canvas bags (you can carry more groceries, too!). When you go out to eat, bring your own to-go container for the leftovers. Little changes like this won’t cure the world, but they can minimize your individual carbon footprint. While individual actions are important, it’s essential to recognize that the burden of solving the recycling crisis should not rest solely on the consumer’s shoulders. No matter how diligently we sort our plastics, the overarching impact comes down to corporate practices. Consumers can influence change through informed choices and demand for eco-conscious products. However, true systemic change requires corporations to adopt environmentally responsible practices. In the spirit of Earth Day, let’s take a hard look at our consumer habits, ensure we are recycling properly, and continue to have conversations about improving the environment.
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Piecing Together the Puzzle The Road to an Autism Diagnosis BY AMANDA MILLER
20 APRIL 2024 | NOLAFAMILY.COM “I took her to her pediatrician and I showed her the snapping by her ear. The pediatrician immediately looked an 11-month-old baby would bounce and smile, reach out to grab you, and be really excited to see you. I would walk into a room and Emery wouldn’t respond.” THE START OF THERAPY At first, the family believed that due to Emery’s repeated ear infections that the lack of response was due to fluid in her ears. However, at an appointment with the pediatrician, the discussion shifted. I n August of 2020, Emery W. entered this world at the height of the pandemic. The happy baby girl brought much-needed joy to the family during a difficult year. Although, 11 months later, members of the family began noticing certain mannerisms of Emery’s that caused them concern. Ryn W., Emery’s mother, explains, “My mother had mentioned that Emery was not making eye contact. My mother is very much a hyper-focused grandmother, so I brushed it off. It wasn’t until my father-in-law pointed out the same thing that it really hit me in the gut.” While Ryn admits to being in denial at first, other things Emery did–or didn’t do–were becoming more noticeable. Ryn explains, “My first sign that something was up was she lacked eye contact with me. I would also snap my fingers by her head to get her to turn her head to notice me, or clap a very loud clap, and she would not turn. The final was, I would walk into a room after not seeing her all day, and typically,
at me and said, ‘I’m going to give you some referrals, and none of this is your fault,’” says Ryn. “The farthest thing from my mind was autism, but I kept hearing words like ‘developmental pediatrician,’ ‘EarlySteps,’ ‘OT,’ and ‘speech therapy.’ I walked out of the room with a long list of people to contact next.” After waiting two weeks for a referral, Ryn was informed that it could take up to six months, or longer, for Emery to be seen for a consultation with a developmental pediatrician. While on the waiting list to receive this consultation, Emery went through an evaluation for EarlySteps in order to receive therapy services. EarlySteps offers services to children from birth to age three who have a “medical condition likely to result in a developmental delay, or who have developmental delays.” Ryn explains that in order for Emery to qualify, she had to fail two out of five categories, or domains, during the evaluation. The domains the evaluation covers include: motor skills, cognitive, social-emotional, communication, and adaptive. “At the time, I thought to myself, she might fail one. If she fails two, we’ll get services, but maybe she won’t even qualify. When the results came back, I was shocked to know that Emery failed four out of five categories. The only one she did not fail was cognitive. So that was eye opening that she was one, in my eyes, severely delayed. And two, she was a pandemic baby, so was this my fault?” says Ryn.
During COVID, children weren’t experiencing normal life situations. However, many parents are still blaming themselves. Denise Housewright, a licensed speech pathologist with the EarlySteps program who has worked closely with Emery, shares, “There are quite a few parents–COVID or no COVID– who want to blame themselves, and I have to reassure them that we don’t know what caused this right now. I mean, did COVID hurt? Absolutely. But there’s no way, unless there was maybe a stroke in utero or something medical.” Emery began speech therapy at 13 months old with EarlySteps before starting group therapy at 18 months old at The Emerge Center. The biggest concern, in the beginning, was Emery’s communication, which had regressed. Ryn shares, “She had zero language, and she couldn’t communicate with us about what she needed or wanted. It was screeching, so you would think she was in pain, but that was her way of communicating.” While at The Emerge Center, Ryn learned that Emery had a developmental delay in the speech category, and for the next two years, Emery was completing therapy several days a week. A CHANGE IN PLANS When Emery turned three, she was discharged from EarlySteps but was enrolled at Gateway Preschool & Technology Center. The family also made it possible for Emery to continue seeing Housewright while at the preschool. “On day three of being in the preschool,
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such a gift that we were no longer in this gray area. We were in a black-and-white area, and now we were able to get the services that she so desperately needed. I was asking God for a guide, a book, some sort of direction to help point me in the right way, and I left Ochsner that day with a literal book in my hand, that gave me a list of every resource I could imagine,” Ryn shares. The journey to getting a diagnosis was full of ups and downs, but for Ryn, the best part of all has been the little things Emery does. She says, “Emery surprises me every day. She’s such a gift. There was a time when I was begging for her to say ‘mama,’ ‘duck,’ ‘book,’ or ‘dada,’ anything. She didn’t talk until two and a half, and it’s just funny now to hear what comes out of her mouth.” For parents who find themselves on a similar journey, Ryn emphasizes, “You’re absolutely not alone. Ask for guidance. If you’re seeking help, always get a second opinion. You are your child’s voice. You have to constantly advocate and fight. Keep your head up and don’t lose sight of the end goal because it’s beautiful, and it’s bright on the other side; you just have to keep pushing it to get it.”
which is a very routine-driven, curriculum-based preschool, they called me and said Emery was not a good mold for the three-year-old class. Panic settled in for me that they were going to ask her to leave, but they told me she could stay, and that they would put her in a different class that would be more catered, where the teacher would help her more. For that, I’m forever grateful because they have been wonderful to her. They let her change classes to the older two-year- olds, and they began to help her every day with what she needed,” says Ryn. Coupled with preschool, Emery began therapy at Abilities Pediatric Therapy Services, where the occupational therapist confirmed that Emery was experiencing Sensory Processing Disorder. At the time, Emery was still on the waiting list in order to get an official autism diagnosis evaluation, and at one point, she was on three different waiting lists to find answers. “I was calling like a frantic mother. I was calling in New Orleans, I was calling in Lafayette, I was calling anybody and everybody, trying to get Emery in as quickly as possible. Because initially, when we got the diagnosis
of developmental delay and sensory processing disorder, I was like, this makes total sense. She’s not autistic, she has sensory issues, so we took that as a blessing. As we got deeper, we thought, okay, we need services,” says Ryn. The family learned that Emery is neurodivergent. However, without the official autism diagnosis, insurance would not cover anything and Emery didn’t qualify for ABA therapy. “We were truly fitting in between a rock and a hard place. She wasn’t fitting the mold of typical or atypical. There wasn’t an entity that could help a child in the gray area,” she says. A SILVER LINING A year and a half later, Emery was finally off the waiting list. The family visited Ochsner’s Michael R. Boh Center for Child Development in Baton Rouge, where Emery met with four different medical professionals. Unanimously, they diagnosed Emery with Level Two Autism. “I remember as soon as she said, ‘This does correlate with autism,’ I stopped her and I said, ‘Does or doesn’t?’ I was prepared for it, but until you get confirmation, it hits you weird. I started crying because I felt like they’d given her
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Females are Better at Masking Autism Symptoms BY VICTORIA MIKOTA PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM
A utism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can result in challenges with social interaction, communication, information processing, and behavior. According to the Centers for Disease Control, it’s estimated that 1 out of 36 children are affected by this disorder. Since autism is a “spectrum” disorder, there is a wide variation in the symptoms that those with the disorder may experience––ranging from high-functioning to low-functioning. Each autistic person has a certain subtype, followed by specific strengths and challenges. While people of all genders may be affected by autism, boys are most likely to be diagnosed with this disorder. However, new research suggests that this isn’t due to the prevalence of the disorder, but the ability for girls to camouflage. Autism in Girls Autism in girls may look different than in boys. Although we know a lot more about the experiences of autistic women and girls now, society’s limited
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understanding, stigma, and incorrect assumptions about the disorder have made it difficult for autistic women and girls to get diagnosed. Girls with autism: - Can be better at responding to non- verbal communication and gaze-following. - May struggle with social communication later in life. - May find it difficult to adapt. - May have lower levels of verbal cognitive ability. - May struggle to understand sarcasm. - May obsess over more socially acceptable interests, such as TV shows. - May find conversation difficult. - May have a hard time keeping or making friends. - May struggle with unusual sensory difficulties. - May show interest in creativity or STEM. - May struggle with directions or understanding maps. - May have poor posture. - May enjoy excessively collecting items Some girls show classic markers of autism, such as speech or language difficulty and self-stimulating behaviors. However, many go under the radar through subtle signs of autism that are hidden through masking; A conscious or subconscious suppression of autistic behaviors and difficulties in social interaction by autistic people with the goal of being perceived as displaying the “right” behavior by neurotypicals. Moreover, girls and women are expected to align themselves with society’s expectations of how a young girl or woman should act. For example, through society’s lens, girls and women are expected to behave in a way that is “ladylike,” and exudes femininity. Women of their specific interests. - Can be perfectionists. Why Do Autistic Girls Go Undiagnosed? and girls are expected to be passive, quiet, and easygoing. Since some signs of autism mirror this behavior, it’s easy to gloss over. In addition to camouflaging, autistic girls and women are more likely to partake in the following: Mirroring Autistic females are more likely to copy
or mimic other people’s mannerisms, speech patterns, and personalities. Hyper-Empathy While empathy is a normal human trait, autistic people are more likely to experience a heightened level of empathy, known as hyper-empathy. This type of empathy can cause mild emotional situations to be devastating or overwhelming. People-Pleasing When autistic girls and women share their true selves, they may be shamed or invalidated. This lack of support can cause girls and women affected by autism to hide pieces of themselves and submit to people-pleasing behaviors. Social Withdrawl Autistic girls may be more likely to come across as blunt when interacting with other people due to their more direct communication style. While they mean no ill intentions, blunt language can come across to others as harsh or abrasive, and cause issues. Thus, leaving autistic girls feeling rejected, and even isolated. At School Young girls with autism may present as the “quiet” child in school, or even be prone to emotional outbursts in the classroom. In addition, autistic girls may show disinterest in school sports, feel anxious during P.E. classes, and struggle with teachers who may raise their voices. Transitions from classroom to classroom may present an additional challenge. In Friendships In friendships, an autistic girl may struggle to fit into friendship groups or feel like they’re always left out. If a conflict were to arise, an autistic girl may get overwhelmed and instead choose solo playtime, versus playtime with a group. How to Support Girls with Autism Many girls go a long time, sometimes well into adulthood, before getting diagnosed with autism. For some, this diagnosis could lead to a sense of relief, understanding, and self-acceptance. For others, a diagnosis could lead to other avenues of self-discovery, such as awareness of mental illnesses or learning disabilities. Whether you suspect high or low-functioning autism, getting your child diagnosed as soon as possible can help improve their quality of life and give them the support they need to thrive.
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The Rise and Representation of Autism in Pop Culture BY MADISON VOORHIES
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24 APRIL 2024 | NOLAFAMILY.COM conversation that is far from over. Breaking Stereotypes and Shaping Narratives One of the most significant I n recent years, the representation of autism in pop culture has undergone a remarkable evolution, shedding light on the experiences and perspectives of individuals on the autism spectrum. From television and film, to literature and gaming, the past decade has witnessed a growing recognition of the diverse talents, challenges, and contributions of those with autism. As we reflect on this cultural shift, it becomes clear that the portrayal of autism in mainstream media has played a crucial role in fostering understanding, acceptance, and advocacy within our society. Above all, it has sparked a huge
and social media platforms, individuals on the spectrum have been able to share their own stories, perspectives, and insights directly with audiences around the world. This movement has empowered autistic individuals to reclaim their narratives, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for greater representation and acceptance within the media and society at large. A more recent example that combines both television and autobiographical works is Netflix’s “Love on the Spectrum.” This show follows several adults with autism and their journey to find love. It is as hilarious as it is heartwarming, and wonderfully depicts the ups and downs of trying to date as an adult. We also see the situation from a different perspective, as several parents are featured on the show often giving praise and showing
developments in the representation of autism in pop culture has been the departure from stereotypes and clichés that once dominated portrayals of neurodiverse characters. Gone are the days of one-dimensional depictions that focused solely on the challenges of autism. Instead, we now see nuanced portrayals that highlight the strengths, talents, and unique perspectives of individuals on the spectrum. Shows like “Atypical” and “The Good Doctor” have garnered praise for their sensitive and authentic portrayals of characters with autism, showcasing their diverse experiences and capabilities. The past decade has also seen a rise in the number of autistic content creators and advocates who are actively shaping the narrative surrounding autism. Through autobiographical works, blogs,
compassionate society— one that we truly want our children to grow up in. Autistic Voices in Literature In addition to visual media, literature has also played a significant role in shaping this narrative. Over the past decade, there has been a proliferation of books written by autistic authors that offer authentic and diverse perspectives on life with autism. These memoirs, novels, and children’s books not only provide insight into the lived experiences of individuals on the spectrum but also serve as powerful tools for fostering understanding among readers of all ages. Fostering Inclusive Gaming Communities The gaming industry has also made strides in embracing neurodiversity and creating inclusive spaces for individuals with autism. Games like “Minecraft” and “Stardew Valley” have been praised for their open-ended gameplay and accessibility features, which cater to a wide range of players, including those with autism. Moreover, initiatives such as the Autistic Gaming Initiative have worked to create supportive communities and resources for autistic gamers,
support to their children as they embark on a new, independent journey. Visibility in Mainstream Media Perhaps one of the most notable trends in the representation of autism in pop culture has been its increased visibility in mainstream media. Characters with autism are no longer adhered to the sidelines but are instead taking center stage in a wide range of narratives across various forms of entertainment. From animated films like “The Peanut Butter Falcon,” which features a lead character with Down syndrome, to popular TV series like “Sesame Street,” which introduced Julia, a Muppet with autism, mainstream media platforms are embracing diversity and inclusivity like never before. It’s characters like these that help teach our children the importance of inclusivity and acceptance. Through their stories and experiences, young audiences learn valuable lessons about empathy, understanding, and embracing differences. By showcasing neurodiverse characters in positive and relatable ways, pop culture has the power to shape attitudes and perceptions, laying the foundation for a more inclusive and
providing a platform for connection, creativity, and self-expression Embracing Neurodiversity in Pop Culture As we look back on the past decade, it is evident that the representation of autism in pop culture has come a long way in fostering understanding, acceptance, and advocacy within our society. Through diverse narratives, authentic portrayals, and empowered voices, pop culture has played a vital role in breaking down stereotypes, challenging misconceptions, and celebrating the strengths and talents of individuals on the autism spectrum. Moving forward, it is essential that we continue to prioritize authentic representation and inclusivity in all forms of media, ensuring that the stories and experiences of individuals with autism are not only heard but celebrated. As families and communities, we have the opportunity to embrace neurodiversity, foster empathy, and create a more inclusive and equitable world for all. By amplifying diverse voices and challenging societal norms, we can build a future where individuals of all abilities are valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.
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When it comes to finding the best summer camp for you and your family, we’ve got you covered. Dive deeper into all the camps New Orleans and the surrounding areas have to offer! 2024 Camp Showcase
28 APRIL 2024 | NOLAFAMILY.COM
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April 2024
out & about
1
2 Disney Princess - The Concert Visit the Saenger Theatre for a night of pure Disney magic
Zoo-To-Do for Kids Experience a day of fun at the Audubon Zoo for the 35th annual Zoo-To-Do for Kids! This event will include live music plus arcade games, inflatables, arts and crafts, and sips and snacks. Help celebrate the historic Odenheimer complex and their Louisiana pine snake conservation efforts. April 26. 5-9 p.m. audubonnatureinstitute.org
and nostalgia as Broadway stars perform your favorite princess, hero, and villain songs. April 4. 7 p.m. saengernola.com
Hogs For The Cause 3
Kick off festival season at the UNO Lakefront Arena with Hogs for the Cause— the premier nationwide source of funding for families with children fighting pediatric brain cancer. April 5-6. hogsfest.org
Festival 4
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage
5 This free festival hosts 20 stages throughout the historic French Quarter with live, local music from every genre and traditional Louisiana cuisine. April 11-14. frenchquarterfest.org French Quarter Festival
This 10-day cultural fest showcases thousands of unforgettable musicians, cooks, and craftspeople over the course of two weekends at the Fair Grounds Race Course. April 25-May 5. nojazzfest.com
HEADS UP!
Events may change after publication deadline. Please phone ahead to confirm important information and check with locations about individual COVID rules.
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