The Importance of Collaboration
Every child has unique sensory needs that affect how they navigate their world. By combining the expertise of various professionals, a well-rounded, consistent strategy can be implemented, benefiting the child at home, school, and in the community.

Collaboration ensures:

• A unified approach to sensory challenges.
• Consistency in strategies across environments.
• Comprehensive support that addresses the child’s full range of needs.

At Autism F.I.R.S.T., we bring these principles to life by fostering open communication and teamwork among our experts and families.

Key Players in the Team

1. Occupational Therapists (OTs):
   • Focus on sensory integration and daily living skills.
   • Develop sensory diets, recommend tools (e.g., weighted vests), and create calming or alerting activities.
2. Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs):
   • Use behavior analysis to understand how sensory inputs influence behaviors.
   • Collaborate on strategies that integrate sensory needs into behavior support plans.
3. Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs):
   • Address sensory challenges that impact communication, such as tactile sensitivities affecting speech production.
   • Implement sensory strategies to improve engagement during therapy sessions.
4. Physical Therapists (PTs):
   • Focus on gross motor skills and body awareness.
   • Help regulate sensory input through movement-based activities like balance exercises.
5. Teachers:
   • Implement sensory strategies in the classroom.
   • Collaborate with the team to create an inclusive learning environment that supports sensory needs.

How Autism F.I.R.S.T. Supports Collaboration

At Autism F.I.R.S.T., our team works across disciplines to create individualized plans that prioritize sensory needs.

• Our OTs and PTs design and implement sensory-friendly activities that enhance comfort and focus.
• BCBAs and SLPs collaborate to develop strategies that address both behavioral and communication needs.
• Our team communicates closely with teachers and families to ensure strategies are applied consistently across settings.

This seamless collaboration ensures that each child receives the comprehensive support they deserve.

Practical Tips for Families

• Communicate openly with your child’s team. Share observations and ask questions about strategies.
• Advocate for consistent collaboration by encouraging professionals to share goals and progress.
• Participate in meetings and therapy sessions when possible to understand how strategies work across settings.

Autism F.I.R.S.T. also provides resources and guidance for families to stay informed and engaged in their child’s care. Visit www.autismfirstus.com to learn more. Learn more about our Early Intervention Program, F.I.R.S.T. Steps Academy, and our Social Skills Group.

Building a Supportive Network

Addressing sensory needs in Autism is a team effort that thrives on collaboration. By leveraging the expertise of OTs, BCBAs, SLPs, PTs, and teachers, families can ensure their child receives comprehensive and consistent support. At Autism F.I.R.S.T., our mission is to empower children and their families by providing a collaborative and inclusive approach to care.

Together, we can create environments where children with autism feel empowered to succeed and thrive. Learn more about how we can help at www.autismfirstus.com.