ASP Family Support Group for June 2023

Date: 10 June 2023, Saturday
Time: 10:00am
Register below to get the zoom link

Deadline of registration is 9 June 2023, Friday at 12nn

June 2023 FSG Poster

ASPs family support group sessions bring together parents, siblings, and other family members to talk about their journey in living with autism. Participants share their experiences and draw enlightenment and strength from others going through the same challenges.

The Autism Society Philippines -- together with this month's host, ASP Angono -- welcome members and non-members, bound by a common experience that is autism. We aspire to educate, empower and inspire to help build an Autism-OK Philippines.

IMPORTANT: Send us an email via autismphils@gmail.com if you have not received your Zoom credentials by 9 June 2023, Friday at 1pm. Please do not share your link — only one device per name shall be accepted.

Our Moderators:

Maria Joyla Ofrecia empowers families in the care and instruction of children and youth on the autism spectrum, as a valuable resource to the ASP Early Detection and Early Intervention Program, ASP Education Committee and the ASP HOMEpowerment Program. She organized and mentors the ASP chapters towards good governance and sustainability as the ASP MM- Rizal Cluster Head.

Her eldest is Juris, a young man on the autism spectrum. She has been a hands-on mother and for almost 16 years, has been implementing home intervention programs along with other center-based interventions not just for her own son but also for other children on the spectrum.

Armie Martinez is currently the president of ASP Angono. Mommy Armie was born and raised in Angono and has four children; the youngest is Rheyn, a 14-year-old boy on the autistic spectrum. For the last five years, she has worked as a barangay health worker.

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Posted in: 4parents,fsg

An open letter to my kids on the spectrum

Mommy Genevieve with kids, Zion and Zafina

There are no words to express the depth of love and admiration I have for each of you. As your mom, I want to take a moment to send you a heartfelt message filled with encouragement, understanding, and unwavering support.

First and foremost, please know that you are extraordinary in every way. Autism is just a part of who you are; it does not define you or limit your potential. I believe in your unique abilities, your beautiful minds, and the incredible strength you possess.

I want you to remember that you are not alone on this journey. Our family is here for you, standing beside you every step of the way. We are a team, and together, we can overcome any challenge that comes our way. I am your advocate, your ally, and your biggest cheerleader. My love for you knows no bounds, and I will always fight for your rights, acceptance, and inclusion in this world.

I understand that the world may not always understand you as well as I do, but please never doubt your worth or feel discouraged. Your differences make you special and unique. Embrace your strengths, explore your passions, and let your brilliance shine. The world needs your incredible perspectives, your creativity, and your untapped potential.

Remember to be kind to yourself. Autism may present certain obstacles, but it also gifts you with remarkable strengths. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem to others. Every step forward, every milestone reached, is a testament to your resilience and determination.

Know that I am here to listen, to learn, and to grow alongside you. Your experiences and insights have taught me so much, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be your mother. I promise to always support you, to provide a safe space for you to express yourself, and to learn from you as we navigate this world together.

Above all, my dear children, please remember that you are loved unconditionally. You are deserving of love, respect, and happiness. Your autism is a beautiful part of who you are, and it brings a unique light into our lives. Never let anyone make you feel less than you are. You are strong, you are capable, and you are loved beyond measure.

With all my love, Mommy.

This article was originally published on Mommy Genevieve's Facebook account. https://bit.ly/3LXj672

About the author:
Mommy Genevieve Cruz is currently the ASP City of San Fernando, Pampanga Chapter president. She has three children: Zion, Ezra, and Zafina. Her eldest, Zion, is on the autism spectrum; recently, Zafina, the youngest, was also diagnosed on the spectrum. She is an athlete who used to compete internationally and won a silver medal in the 2019 Global Powerlifting event in Thailand. Aside from being an ASP chapter president, she is also the head coach of Kilo Killaz, a team of young powerlifters.

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Posted in: 4parents

ASP AUmazing Show

Over the years, the amazing singing/dancing talents of people on the spectrum have become one of the biggest attractions during the annual ASP Angels Walk for Autism. This annual talent showcase promotes acceptance, accommodation and appreciation of children and adults on the spectrum in the field of performing arts.

The AUmazing Show poster

The Autism Society Philippines is launching this year the ASP AUmazing Show not only to discover new performers for the next Angels Walk for Autism, but also to support them in becoming professional performers onstage.

Who can join?

Performers on the autism spectrum:

• active regular ASP member/s (as of joining the AUmazing Show); either as individual/s or child/ren of active ASP members (this applies to all members of a group). To join ASP: http://bit.ly/asp-join.
• any age
• any performing act: singing, dancing, instruments, magic, stand up acts, etc.
• solo or group
• those who have previously performed in Angels Walk can join

Mechanics:

Round 1 - Online Screening
1. Prepare the following for submission:

1.1. performance video

• 2-3 minutes long
• horizontal mode
• mp4 file
• max of 2GB

1.2. e-copy of proof of autism diagnosis: ID, medical evaluation, etc.
1.3. ASP member’s name and ID number/s

• the talent representative
• the talent or his/her parents (if group performance, each talent’s parent)

2. Register via https://bit.ly/AUmazingShow until 30 June 2023.
3. Announcement of semi-finalists shall be on 15 July 2023 via ASP Facebook.

Round 2 - Live Semi-Finals
1. Live semi-finals will be held every Saturday in August at the ASP National Headquarters.

• Schedule shall be announced after 15 July 2023.

2. Performance rules:

• maximum 3 minutes

3. Judging Criteria

• showmanship
• technique
• creativity
• preparation
• overall impression

4. Finalists will be announced by 15 September 2023 via ASP FB.

Round 3 - Live Finals
1. The live finals shall be held in front of a live audience on 30 November 2023.

• Tickets shall be sold to subsidize expenses for the event.

2. Venue in Metro Manila to be confirmed.
3. Winners shall be announced at the end of the show.
4. Judges and prizes to be announced.

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Posted in: 4public,4pwas

5 Things I Want My Child's Life Coach to Know

As a mother of a child on the autism spectrum, I have seen firsthand how the right life coach can have a transformative impact on my child's life. I want to share five things I wish my child's life coach knew about the crucial role they play and the impact they have on our family.

Mommy Elaine Sisno and son Joshi during the ASP Cebu Angels Walk for Autism 2023 talent show

1. You Are Our Partner in This Journey
As a life coach, you are more than just an expert guiding our children through their challenges; you are our partner in this journey. We value your expertise, dedication, and compassion, and we appreciate your commitment to working collaboratively with us to support our child's growth and development. Your partnership not only benefits our child but also helps us grow as parents, ultimately strengthening our family as a whole.

2. Your Empathy and Understanding Make All the Difference
The world can be a confusing and overwhelming place for individuals on the spectrum. Your ability to empathize with and understand our child's unique experiences and challenges is invaluable. By offering a safe and supportive space for our child to express their thoughts and emotions, you help them feel seen, heard, and understood. This level of empathy fosters trust and rapport, making it easier for our child to open up and engage with you.

3. Your Adaptability Is Key
Every person on the autism spectrum is different, with their own set of strengths, challenges, and aspirations. Your willingness to adapt your coaching approach to meet our child's specific needs is essential. By tailoring your techniques and strategies to suit our child's unique abilities and goals, you are not only more effective as a coach but also demonstrate your genuine commitment to our child's success.

4. You Empower Our Child to Reach Their Full Potential
As a life coach, your role in empowering our children to reach their full potential cannot be overstated. Through your guidance and support, you help our child develop essential life skills, emotional intelligence, and resilience. You encourage them to step out of their comfort zone and challenge themselves, enabling them to grow and thrive. This empowerment has a lasting impact on our child's life, both personally and professionally.

5. Your Impact Extends Beyond Coaching Sessions
Finally, it is important for you to know that your impact as a life coach extends far beyond your sessions with our child. The skills, knowledge, and confidence that our child gains through your coaching have a ripple effect on all aspects of their life. From school performance and social interactions to family dynamics and future opportunities, your influence is felt in countless ways.

In conclusion, as a life coach for a child on the autism spectrum, your role is truly transformative. By partnering with us, empathizing with our children, adapting to their unique needs, and empowering them to reach their full potential, you make a profound impact on our child's life and our family's journey. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you for your dedication and the incredible difference you make.

About the Author:
Elaine Sisno is a mother to a young adult on the spectrum, Joshi. Mommy Elaine is also a Project Manager of Daivergent. This article is originaly published at https://bit.ly/3nhdNHd.

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Posted in: 4parents

AUthletics at Music Hall, SM MOA

The Autism Society Philippines launched ASP AUthletics in 2020 to promote wellness through movement and develop competitive athletes among individuals on the autism spectrum across the nation. Its purpose is to encourage well-being, friendship, and achievement while also promoting genuine acceptance, accommodation, and appreciation in an Autism-friendly environment in the Philippines.

ASP AUthletics at Music Hall Poster

The AUthletics games will take place again on April 16, 2023, at the Music Hall, SM Mall of Asia, immediately following the Angels Walk for Autism. Participants will have the opportunity to compete against each other while having fun and building friendships. It is a great opportunity for individuals on the autism spectrum to showcase their skills and talents while enjoying the thrill of competition.

The ASP has partnered with SM Cares and the Mall of Asia to promote autism-friendly spaces among responsible business organizations. To encourage volunteerism, the student organization of UP SUPER (UP Supporting PWDs through Exercise and Recreation) will serve as game marshals. To further promote inclusion, the 38 candidates of 2023 Miss Universe-Philippines will also be around to cheer the players.

Slots for the event are limited, and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested participants can register by clicking on the following link: https://bit.ly/AUthleticsMusicHall. The registration deadline is April 4, 2023.

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Posted in: 4pwas,authletics