This man speaks from his heart. He understands that Sensory issues are a big part of life if you have a loved one on the spectrum. He spoke truthfully yet made it clear without using hard to understand words. He made it personal. Just because a person doesn't "look" disabled, doesn't mean they aren't. So many people don't understand that not all disabilities are visible. Beautiful!
Lovely video. My son is now seven years old, didn't start talking in school until first grade (last year) His teachers, classmates, and school went above and beyond to help him with his sensory issues. One day a got tons of messages from the other moms saying their child said that he started saying "Hello"! All because the fact that they helped him with the sensory problems. Now in second grade, he's thriving! even got an A on his math test. So excited for him. *happy tears*
My son who is on the spectrum failed to meet all his milestones with numerous hours of therapy a week, I quit my job and turned his disability into an advantage. My son was two years behind his age and now it's right where he should be according to therapist the only thing we have to tackle now is his sensory. Thank you for bringing awareness for sensory disorder .
Truly makes us think of how can I be a better advocate not only for my own children, but for those children all over the world who need a voice and an advocate to build a community of acceptance and inclusion; highlighting the advantages of differences instead of condemning them to isolation.
Before I came across KultureCity, I was so lost and confused. Like many newly diagnosed families, I was lost in a pile of paperwork, research, and phone calls desperately seeking therapies and services, all of which revolved around what my son was lacking. Indicating that my son was broken. Therapies focused on his "compliance " with typical behavior. Thankfully, I did find KultureCity. There I found affirmation of what I knew in my heart, that my son was not lacking or broken, but different. That different is not less, just different. We continue to seek therapies, but they are focused on helping him navigate a world that for the most part, doesn't accept him or include him. The Maha's and KultureCity are changing that. Thank you Julian and Michele for your inclusion movement!
I look forward to the day when there are an abundance of places that my son will feel at home in! Growing up, I never felt like I was in the right place and I want so much more for him. Autistics are so much more that just different. They are uniquely gifted, each in their own way. The more places they have to feel at home, the more their gifts will grow and shine!! Thank you, Mr. Maha for being such a champion for our cause!
My son is a teenager and dealing with the same sensitivities as I did growing up. Trying to teach him skills for the big world would be so much easier if the grocery stores were more sensory friendly. He would be much more comfortable and able to focus on comparing process, learning how to organize his list, staying within a budget, etc. I would love a restaurant that was calling so that he would actually enjoy eating out. I want him to have a few go-to places where he feels he belongs, where he feels comfortable. Thank you for being a voice for autism ❤
Every time I hear you talk I see how far we have gone in the inclusion of our kids. Thank you for speaking so eloquently for our children. May more people see this and realize our kids potential
Hey, I know Carson from The Cavs and the Q story! He is my son. We got connected to KultureCity because of this incident, and one might say 'serendipity'... Love the Maha's and KultureCity. Jules you did great telling our story. It needed to be told. The future looks better because of this movement. We've just started
My son is 9 and starting to notice that people treat him differently. He has recently asked me why people don't like him, don't include him, and don't invite him to things. It is heartbreaking as a mom because I know how amazing he is, but the outside world won't take the time to try to understand him. Even family members treat him differently. I understand that he screeches, jumps, and ticks sometimes and I get that it can be overwhelming, but I wish they would take the time to understand why he does these things. All it takes is a little understanding and a few simple modifications for him to be included. BTW The sensory bags at the Birmingham zoo have been a huge blessing for us. We have been able to go to the zoo without meltdowns , so thank you so much!!!
This was a great video! My son is 7 and has Autism. He has taught me so many wonderful things! When out in public, we get stares and comments if he is having a meltdown. Instead of getting upset like I used to, I use these times to educate about Autism. Something happened in walmart not too long ago that doesn't even involve my son, but touched me so much that I would like to share. I was in walmart doing some shopping. There was a group of 5 kids and 3 teachers on a shopping trip. I could tell that it was an Autistic support class. One of the kids was clearly done with shopping and having a very loud meltdown. Everyone around them just stopped and stared. I followed the group because the teachers looked exhausted. They were trying very hard to calm their student. I just kept walking behind them and finally the child was ok. I overheard a walmart employee say that "kids like that shouldnt be in walmart disrupting everyone else" I was shocked...and in tears. I felt like she was talking about my child and he wasn't even with me! I just couldn't believe what I was hearing! So of course, I went up to the employee and stated my opinion and started to educate her! I will never get over that employee and her hurtful words. Let's be honest here..Autism is hard..but it is also very rewarding..watching your child acomplish something great! I hope that people will learn accecptance of everyone with a disability..and try to include them..and make sensory friendly areas for them! They have a right to enjoy and experience the world like the rest of us! It is going to take us as parents to work towards this goal for our children!
Dr. Maha nailed it. We experienced KultureCity's inclusion package at McWane's Science Center recently. We had already decided to get up and leave the theater if it proved to be more than our angel could handle, but knowing we had the special items if needed was assurance that she could enjoy the IMAX too. This is definitely a TED Talk that needs to be shared over and over.
I honestly got choked up watching you speak. Inclusion, it's much more than some realize. The special shopping and Santa days are great, and appreciated... but it's things like, training staff about socal struggles of everyone that has special needs, and making your whole business "inclusive" is what our families need. Our local zoo has a family Center, with an area for families to relax and have a meltdown if necessary..it's great, we use it to help us make our zoo days last longer. Great speech, thanks for sharing!
Acceptance is everything! Thank you Julian and Kulture City for helping the world become more accepting of different. Different doesn't mean less. It just means different.
Thank you for all you have done for the autism community. My son is 8 years old and nonverbal. We take him to all autism friendly events but would love to be able to go anywhere at anytime and feel included. I hope and pray one day all places will practice inclusion for our sweet kids. They deserve to go and experience all the happiness and joy other kids do at all events and places!
Less isolation and more inclusion. I have developed a touch of isolation due to the lack of acceptance when it comes to my children. I dream of the day that sensory accessibility is no longer something we wish for but something that is made to welcome us all in. My children are special as the next child. Each individual is born unique and instead of having to explain that my children have special needs I wish for the day where I don't need an explanation for others have acceptance and understanding. This video opened my eyes more about sensory inclusion and your speech made me feel like I was included in that plan along with my children.
Very interesting speech. Our son was diagnosed when he was a little over a year old as autistic with delayed development. The road has been much harder and longer than we could have imagined. He is now 5 and is totally non-verbal, has melt downs fairly regularly and it is so hard to take him out anywhere due to the noise and crowds as spoken about in the video. Some local places do have activities that are targeted for children on the spectrum but even though these are nice gestures, our children need to be around normal children also. Our school system makes a point of putting out children with the normal children several times during the day. Most of our friends don't understand his melt downs so we don't get invited many places and even family that loves him so much can only deal with his continuous screeching, flapping and jumping for so long. We have come a long way but have so much further to go. Keep the education coming to us.
I am so happy that my two autistic kids were born at a time where all of these changes and advancements in understanding are occuring. I think that the more that the idea of sensory inclusion is adopted by the community at large, the acceptance of neurodivergences will grow in proportion. I can look at their future with less fear that they will be isolated and shunned, and instead I can see a culture of growing understanding and celebration of their differences. Sensory friendly events have been a great jumping off point, but they do still have this whole air of division from the greater community, they can also be very very crowded because the demand for these events is huge. I think that this talk points toward the logical evolution of these isolated events to a more generalized accessibility all the time. Thank you KultureCity for blazing the trail!
I am honestly moved to tears by this video. Why? Because I see an organization out there making this world a better place for our kids on the spectrum. Oftentimes, parents work so hard, including me, to get our kids to conform to social standards. And it should be the other way around. There have been times that certain noises set my ASD child off. He's had meltdowns over noises like in a grocery store, with no one offering to help, I'm frantically trying to calm down my child and people just look at me like I'm a bad mom or I have a bad child. Sensory inclusion is the key.
This is a great video which shows and explains the need for sensory friendly places. As a mom of a 7 year old on the spectrum, it is hard to go places with our son because he has sensory needs, for example, dislikes loud noises, and bright lights. We as a family should not have to be excluded just because of one member in our family. Let begin to show the world we need more sensory places, so families can enjoy outings as a family. There is little acceptance to people who doesnt wear a disability on their face. This needs to be overlooked and see what the family s dealing with.
We absolutely need more sensory inclusion in this world!! My son is Autistic with SPD and there are many places he would love to visit but without the proper sensory inclusion protocols in place we aren't able to take him. It's heartbreaking as a parent not to be able to give your child the same experiences as a neurotypical child. We also desperately need businesses to step up and train all of their employees on disabilities including invisible ones! So many bad situations could be prevented by knowledge, acceptance and understanding. We need to come together as a community and help to educate and motivate others for a positive change.
It takes a TedX talk for the world to pay attention to the most common sense idea of the universe.We all belong, I tell my daughter with autism the same every day.
My grandmother used to say "Hunny God will never give you more than what you can't handle "My grandmother was a beautiful intelligent Jewish woman whom passed when I was young. Last montH God and my Grandmother challenged me. Last month I broke down. I have known for a while I told myself. How will my oldest adjust? I asked myself. Looking at the same amazing boy I walked in with. As he flapped his hands because his sister got him a new toy. It hit me. My baby was non verbal and may always be but his way of communicating to me and our family is sweet,beautiful, and amazing. I have chosen to treat this diagnoses and his newly discovered ABILITY as a blessing.
This video finally brought out the pent up tears that have been building up for the last two weeks. My seven year old aspie daughter started public school for the first time last week. How many times I've heard her say I want my hair like this so I can be normal, I want to do this so I can be like the other kids. It's the hardest thing in the world. I know in her sweet pure little heart all she wants is acceptance for who she is but yet there is this constant feeling of needing to be someone else. As a mom my heart breaks for her because I see what a blessing she is to this world... autism and all. Different not less. It is time we educate and accept. Allow all children to feel accepted for who they are and the gifts they bring to the table. My daughter is an artist, she is an actress, she has a heart of gold, she is autistic. She is beautiful.
I absolutely loved the way that he explained "sensory friendly" as compared to "sensory inclusion". Even with a son on the spectrum, I guess I never gave much thought in the difference.
I love how clearly put the point is here. Even I, having 3 autistic children, struggle to find the words to explain such things to others (or lack of patience lol). Kulturecity is such an amazing organization and I believe our children's future will have many blessings thanks to this man here.
This is a wonderful explanation to the need our community has to promote inclusion for all. The demand for his type of inclusion in my community, unfortunately, leads to most "sensory friendly" events that I've had the privilege of being a part of to be so crowded and loud that they are no longer "sensory friendly". The demand is there. We've got to embrace, accept, and educate others.
I love this video. My autistic daughter is 4 years old and I want her to have a life with tons of friends and not in classes like I was where they sit you at a different lunch table in school and have a different classroom. I want her to understand that she is and always was the same cute, funny, bossy little 1 year old before her dx that she was the same person after her dx. I think others need to see this video thanks for sharing it.
I like all the efforts I see organizations making to accommodate and include everyone of different abilities and needs. I often find myself wishing people themselves would learn the accommodation of thought and stop thinking they can pass judgment on someone's behavior. It took having an autistic child of my own to stop judging childrens' behavior in public or a parent's parenting because I realized I don't know the whole story. The most helpful thing we can do is not stare and whisper or make comments when we don't understand. If I can't help that parent (for example, I always carry disposable earplugs, and have offered them) I at least give them a smile and space because "If you can't help someone, at least don't hurt them"
I am an Aspie mom of two awesome HFA kids. My son is a sensory seeker and my daughter is a sensory avoider. My son also has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and uses a power chair. It seems that every time we find a sensory friendly event it isn't wheelchair accessible and the wheelchair accessible areas of places are usually quite loud. No matter where we try to go someone's physical or sensory needs are not being met. Our family is often split up with my husband taking our daughter to a quieter area while I stay with my son because the quieter area has stairs or is inaccessible for my son. I am grateful to places that are at least trying to "get it" by having sensory friendly days, but that is not inclusion - it is segregation. It is like saying that people with sensory issues are only welcome during these times and any other time we don't really care about your needs. Thank you for sharing simple ways that places in our communities can make us feel more included.
Awesome talk by Mr.Maha and I totally agree with him about the sensory inclusion and making people aware of the invisible disability like ptsd & autism and such. Also in my opinion it should be included in sicial studies for the kids to learn about and be compassionate for others.
So many people with invisible disabilities are afraid to tell others. If more people understood these different types of disabilities, and realized that they know people with invisible challenges who are socially accepted, the stigma would be lifted. I have bipolar disorder and I am open about it. As a special education teacher, when I'm talking to parents whose children have invisible disabilities , I try to be open about mine so that the shame they feel from society diminishes, to allow for parents to have more confidence in talking about the problems. And that disability does not hold back a child in being successful in life. Hopefully if it will help parents, even just a little, to be more comfortable in asking and, at times demanding, the same opportunities for their child given to typical children.
Love hearing you speak, Julian. My husband, my self and our son all have an invisible disability The thought of true inclusion gives us hope. We are one of those families that has been pushed to seclusion do to struggles. Thank you for speaking out!
All tears! Thank you for this beautiful message. And my son is autistic and I've never looked at it like it's a bad thing or when people stare at him and laugh it doesn't affect me anymore because he's awesome nobody is the same so thank you again for sharing this beautiful video some more people will understand and maybe we'll have more Acceptance in this world.
I have a 4yr old autistic daughter. At first I would avoid going places and doing things because I didn't want the stares or questions. It wasn't until this year when I decided no more. Why should my daughter have to go without experiences her older brother and sister got to have?. We go everywhere and do anything she loves. Love this speech and completely agree with sensory inclusion. 💙💙💙💙
This is an amazing speech and really hits close to home. This man has put into prospective what I could not sort out. Even though I feel its great that there is a better acceptance I still feel my child suffers. Thank you for this!
Educate, educate, educate, and this video has done just that. We can achieve the change that's needed through educating other's. My motto is... Be the change don't just talk about it and this video will bring change.
Having an sensory illusions would of meant being able to take our son to things that we enjoyed, for example football, soccer, racing. The world needs to change and add sensory illusion like they are doing now in some schools, and some sporting events. My son loves watching basketball on tv and would love to go to one someday.
Although I am very grateful when a place has a sensory friendly times/days for my son, I have always felt that my child has autism he is not a gremlin therefore he is able to eat whenever he likes. Why does there have to be certain times and days for my autistic child to eat. If he were in a wheelchair they would have to accommodate but since he doesn't wear it on his face or in his physical appearance come back when we serve his kind. I felt to bad to say it till now, didn't want to seem ungrateful for the progress we have made! Thank you!
This video is excellent..I wanted to share my story here ..Friday my mom who has put off her dental work for years because she has a fear of leaving my brother who is severely autistic in anyone else's care had finally made an appointment and there we were in the waiting room I was sitting watching my brother (I am 19 he is 16)praying for my mom to just make it through her procedure.He was being very patient when after about an hour there were two toddlers screaming fighting in the waiting area..my brother said Shhh...the mother of the two unruly toddlers said SHHHH back towards my brother..then out comes my mom running from the back ..she knew crying or screams would trigger a fit from my brother..he was visibly upset and she just instructed him to exit we left and she never even went back into the office..there is no inclusion for him..it breaks my heart..I felt helpless ..a few moments more and my brother probably would have went into a self injurious fit screaming..he can not take certain noises he is very sensitive ..life is very unfair to him because he does have an invisible disability.. And most do not begin to understand or care.We should do everything we can to spread this message.
Beautiful message. Inclusion for all should be everyone's goal. Growing up I was taught to just deal with it.Whatever kind of issue you have is your problem nobody cares,so just hide it. Becoming a parent made me realize how wrong that was. I don't ever want my beautiful boy to hide who he is. Making businesses aware of SPD needs is essential to overall acceptance. Thank you for making this world a little brighter for all of our loves.
From the moment I realized that my not then diagnosed one year old son was uncomfortable with loud sounds, needed some serious compression when hugged, and wouldn't sleep without a MOUNTAIN of blankets covering him, no matter the weather, just for the weight, I have made a point to do everything I can to make him feel as welcome as the next person, wherever we go. I began carrying a bigger backpack instead of a diaper bag, just so there would be enough room. I made sure to have a pair of noise cancelling headphones at the ready, favorable snacks, and was quick with the hugs, as soon as I saw that he might be uncomfortable. Since then, my son isn't quite so little anymore. He's not even 10, and already over 5' tall! Now, he knows that I ask him to carry that backpack full of "just in case" because that weight will add just enough extra stimulus to keep him grounded, while keeping his headphones within easy reach. My family has always made it a point to go where we want to go, and enjoy the things that we like. If that makes other people uncomfortable, then that is something that the other person needs to work on. If the other person has sincere questions, and isn't being rude, we are more than happy to share a little about what tactics we might be using that day. We love to teach others about ways to include our son!
Awesome message! I believe we all can learn something from this man. Sensory inclusion would make life just a tad bit easier for my lil one. We need more understanding of the invisible or hidden disabilities. Knowledge is power!
The video was awesome. Some of it reminds me of my son Timmy and gives me the knowledge I'm not alone through this life with him . I know everyday is a learning experience not just for him but for me and the people I explain autism to . The more place and people that understand autism the more our children will be understood. Thank you Julian Maha for giving many of us the knowledge and we are not alone in the fight for autism community.
Thank you for doing this video, it really touched home my son was recently diagnosed with autism in March of this yr. recently we were at a play group when a parent came to me and said I really home my child doesn't come home screaming like that :-( it broke my heart to hear this and not knowing how to respond all I could say yes he is very excited and that is what he does
This video has a beautiful message. The video is something everyone can relate to and learn from. Inclusion: something we all want and it isn't hard to do!! Sharing video!
Accessibility to an equal, comfortable, and adaptable education is only one of the topics I ponder after listening to this Ted Talk. I've taught elementary/early childhood education for the past seventeen years. Now that my son with ASD is in elementary school I dream of what school would be like for him with no standards based reporting, no phonics rules to memorize, no pressure to have great handwriting for a left handed child, and no peer pressure to perform in P.E. Why does he need to conform to traditional classroom settings or even a standard school schedule?
Wow. This video was incredible, thank you so much for speaking about this subject. I understand invisible disability all too well. I have two children, they both have Autism. My youngest also has anxiety, my eldest is non-verbal. Along with their ASD comes gut issues and sensory processing disorder. I homeschool them full time. I went to school to be a special education teacher, once my oldest was diagnosed 10 years ago, I put my schooling on hold and went straight into research mode. I've dedicated my life to helping my children and being their (very determined) advocate. I wanted so much to have my children in school, around their peers. Unfortunately, there just isn't enough support for children with special needs. I fight everyday to make sure my kids feel included and safe. I sometimes see places doing sensory friendly activities. However, this is usually very seldom and the need is so high, that the activities are usually extremely crowded and thus ends up not being a very sensory friendly event. I absolutely agree that we need to move beyond that. My children should be able to enjoy activities as much as the next kid. This video brought tears to my eyes. When Julian was speaking about his experience with Abraham, it hit home. My almost 11 yr old is non verbal. He often flaps with hands and struggles with social enviornments. When in public, he is often asked questions from strangers (such as the person at the checkout line) when he stands there, unable to answer the question, often people are quite rude or arent sure how to deal with the situation. I often have to explain that he is nonverbal and assist him in answering the question. When he is flapping, people stare and sometimes laugh. I've found that as people with Autism get older, many people are less accepting of their differences. Just last week I took my oldest to a public play place. It has large inflatables. This has been a normal activity while his younger brother is in a social ABA group. Anyway, this last week he came up to me crying. He said "play", he couldn't verbally explain his sadness, but I understood. He didn't understand how to get the kids to play with him. It just broke my heart. Unfortunately, autism awareness just isn't enough, we need acceptance too. I wish there was more in the community for inclusion. I cannot express that enough. I myself also know what invisible disability looks and feels like at a personal level. Since having my children, I've realized I have many things in common, these things also happen to be "autism traits". I've learned I too am on the spectrum. I also have scoliosis, Pectus Excavatum, Fibromyalgia, and suffer from migraines. All these I struggle with everyday. Most cause me pain every moment of my life. I look "normal" on the outside, but I definitely don't feel that way. Thanks again for posting this video. I can relate and appreciate you bringing attention to it.
We to like him did not understand what autism was until my daughter was diagnosed with it we've heard of the word before But we never realized the true challenges it comes with it and that you've got to learn that everybody's normal is not your normal that your normal is different from everybody and that's okay and that was hard to overcome.
Oh thank you for this wonderful video i believe the world needs more to be educated on this as i know i have been raising my now 9 year old grandson who has autism and your right he cant go and enjoy things like other can because of the sensory issues it breaks my heart that he cant do the thing he loves but i know some things are changing we now have a movie theater her can go to that is for scenery children this was a great video that explains a lot thank you for doing this i will be sharing this may god bless us all and you as well for doing this
This is a wonderful talk and one that many many people need to hear, especially those that aren't close to people with autism or people with special needs. I have two sons with autism and their disabilities definitely look "invisible" at first look. I, myself, have "invisible" disabilities as well. I have severe chronic pain conditions that severely limit my quality of life. Every bit of energy I have, I use to give my boys opportunities and take them to therapies and drive them to participate in special needs activities put on by charities and other kind people free of since pricy vacations aren't possible. I have also heard the "they don't look autistic" before. I so agree on the sensory inclusion vs. sensory friendly. We sometimes feel so lonely. Museums and other places are becoming more and more open to sensory friendly events but they are usually at "off" times when it isn't a busy time for them. I know they try to do these during off times so that it isn't crowded or overwhelming, but this talk is one they should see! I have also noticed a few sensory inclusion places. It was unheard of even a few months ago, but the Museum of Natural Science in Houston now does this. It was because one of their staff members has a brother with autism and started the program. I can't wait until this is the norm. I love what the Cavaliers are doing and I am now motivated to contact the Houston teams to see how we can start something like that here.
My oldest son David is on the spectrum. When we are in public he is usually very well behaved, but sometimes he gets overwhelmed and starts stimming. That's when we start getting the weird looks and the rude comments. When I do have to tell people what he's doing and why I always get the "Well I couldn't tell anything was wrong with him." "He looks so normal." comments. I have to explain to them that there is nothing "wrong" with him, he just has a different sense of the world than we do.
This is a awesome video I have taken initiative and started my tallest for sensory friendly events/ times in kcmo the royals have started sensory areas even have headphones and lap pad a employee actually helped make that happen but doesn't stop my inputs I'm kc we have a lot of inclusion I would love to see more in more cities it's the best. Julian I have been with you from the beginning I am impressed with everything you have done! i will fight along for inclusion for my 3 kids and many others out there Thank you Julian for the video post
Imagine going into an arcade being over stimulated bc of the lights sounds and having a meltdown in the middle of a dave and busters.. This isnt just an example this is my daughters life. Where a simple high school volley ball game can make a meltdown occur.. If places where kids can become sensory inclusive then kids like my daughter can wear noise cancelling headphones.. Have a section of the arcade thats sensory friendly.. Where football games everywhere can become sensory friendly for kids who have memorized all the team stats and names.. If we could get aquariums, zoos, playplaces, and school dances.. It touches the lives of kids of so many precious individuals that I care about.
I truly believe that if we all speak up and show the world how important this is and how simple the modifications are, that we will one day see a sensory inclusive world for our children. Please, I urge all of you to share this video with friends, family, and businesses around you. We can make this happen if we work together!
I am a parent of a child with special needs and many sensory issues. I am all for inclusion and making my child feel as if he fits in. We have had to deal with being excluded from many things including family functions because my family doesn't want to deal with my son. They refuse to acknowledge that he views the world around him a little differently and they refuse to help me make the accmadations so he can feel welcomed. My heart hurts for him. He sees his cousins get things from my parents but he and his sister are always left out. We do have a close family friend that tries to help my son in learning to deal with people like my family. Her daughter is also on the spectrum but much older than my son so she has already lived it. I know as a parent am inclusive world would be wonderful but knowing there will always be people like my family I plan ahead and make sure we carry our sensory bag with us to any event we attend. I have learned it is easier to explain why we carry this bag with us then to not have it and try to explain why my child is a bit out of control according to the world standards. The more I do this the more people I can help educate on invisible disabilities like autism, anxiety, depression, and POTS.
Sensory processing disorders and autism are both very common yet they are both treated by the general public as if they don't exist at all. When people talk about accommodating disabilities they almost always relate it to someone who uses a wheelchair for mobility. We take a sensory bag with us wherever we go along with noise canceling headphones but that in itself is not enough. Every major sporting event and every attraction in this country has the resources and space available to to make sensory friendly areas and a room for people to utilize when they become overstimulated. Every child should have the opportunity to get out and enjoy the world and experience a wide variety of activities regardless of their disability. I don't know what all the answers are, but we can not settle for sensory friendly days or nights. It's a good start but it's just a baby step.
I have 2 children on spectrum totally on different ends. I have a super flapper and a super sensory Lil girl. just like my NT daughter but guess what we all are different. That's the wonderful thing about humans. I have anxiety but I don't look like I do either. I don't expect to be treat different either. I hope people don't look at my children as disabled or different. THEY ARE NORMAL TO OUR FAMILY. Thank you. And Oregon mom of 2 on spectrum
All people are always seeking a way for inclusion to happen... Why not make it possible by providing noise cancelling headphones at different places.. Dimming lights and a sensory zone.. So that families can eat at a sensory inclusion restaurant.. Sensory inclusion dances w Noise cancelling headphones for kids w autism.. And other headphones w music for all the other kids.. Without the crazy looks when my flappy child gets excited and makes a weird face bc she's overloaded... My daughter sees a world in a different way and I wish we could have inclusion at events.. While at these events we could educate kids/parents about what sensory inclusion is.. I would love if we could get some sensory bags at work as well. I work at a peds clinic and I see every day How kids w disabilities can be overwhelmed by various stimuli it would be nice to be able to give kids some sensory bags and maybe it would help to calm them down or at least help w the stimuli around them. I know how it is for my daughter and I want a inclusive world for not just her but for others as well.. Bella is so much more than her diagnosis .. Shes taught me to see things in a more beautiful way or see the world thru a different perspective!
Awesome sensory inclusion would make tons of people w sensory processing disorders life better.. Is hard to take your child w autism to games for her sister bc its too loud.. She cries at arcades.. Lets bring inclusion not exclusion in 2018!
This man speaks from his heart. He understands that Sensory issues are a big part of life if you have a loved one on the spectrum. He spoke truthfully yet made it clear without using hard to understand words. He made it personal. Just because a person doesn't "look" disabled, doesn't mean they aren't. So many people don't understand that not all disabilities are visible. Beautiful!
Lovely video. My son is now seven years old, didn't start talking in school until first grade (last year) His teachers, classmates, and school went above and beyond to help him with his sensory issues. One day a got tons of messages from the other moms saying their child said that he started saying "Hello"! All because the fact that they helped him with the sensory problems. Now in second grade, he's thriving! even got an A on his math test. So excited for him. *happy tears*
My son who is on the spectrum failed to meet all his milestones with numerous hours of therapy a week, I quit my job and turned his disability into an advantage. My son was two years behind his age and now it's right where he should be according to therapist the only thing we have to tackle now is his sensory. Thank you for bringing awareness for sensory disorder .
Truly makes us think of how can I be a better advocate not only for my own children, but for those children all over the world who need a voice and an advocate to build a community of acceptance and inclusion; highlighting the advantages of differences instead of condemning them to isolation.
This message hits home to myself as a mother of a brilliant wizard. AS does not label my child but enhances his way of thinking.
Before I came across KultureCity, I was so lost and confused. Like many newly diagnosed families, I was lost in a pile of paperwork, research, and phone calls desperately seeking therapies and services, all of which revolved around what my son was lacking. Indicating that my son was broken. Therapies focused on his "compliance " with typical behavior. Thankfully, I did find KultureCity. There I found affirmation of what I knew in my heart, that my son was not lacking or broken, but different. That different is not less, just different. We continue to seek therapies, but they are focused on helping him navigate a world that for the most part, doesn't accept him or include him. The Maha's and KultureCity are changing that. Thank you Julian and Michele for your inclusion movement!
I look forward to the day when there are an abundance of places that my son will feel at home in! Growing up, I never felt like I was in the right place and I want so much more for him. Autistics are so much more that just different. They are uniquely gifted, each in their own way. The more places they have to feel at home, the more their gifts will grow and shine!! Thank you, Mr. Maha for being such a champion for our cause!
My son is a teenager and dealing with the same sensitivities as I did growing up. Trying to teach him skills for the big world would be so much easier if the grocery stores were more sensory friendly. He would be much more comfortable and able to focus on comparing process, learning how to organize his list, staying within a budget, etc. I would love a restaurant that was calling so that he would actually enjoy eating out. I want him to have a few go-to places where he feels he belongs, where he feels comfortable. Thank you for being a voice for autism ❤
Every time I hear you talk I see how far we have gone in the inclusion of our kids. Thank you for speaking so eloquently for our children. May more people see this and realize our kids potential
Hey, I know Carson from The Cavs and the Q story! He is my son.
We got connected to KultureCity because of this incident, and one might say 'serendipity'...
Love the Maha's and KultureCity.
Jules you did great telling our story. It needed to be told. The future looks better because of this movement. We've just started
My son is 9 and starting to notice that people treat him differently. He has recently asked me why people don't like him, don't include him, and don't invite him to things. It is heartbreaking as a mom because I know how amazing he is, but the outside world won't take the time to try to understand him. Even family members treat him differently. I understand that he screeches, jumps, and ticks sometimes and I get that it can be overwhelming, but I wish they would take the time to understand why he does these things. All it takes is a little understanding and a few simple modifications for him to be included. BTW The sensory bags at the Birmingham zoo have been a huge blessing for us. We have been able to go to the zoo without meltdowns , so thank you so much!!!
This was a great video! My son is 7 and has Autism. He has taught me so many wonderful things! When out in public, we get stares and comments if he is having a meltdown. Instead of getting upset like I used to, I use these times to educate about Autism. Something happened in walmart not too long ago that doesn't even involve my son, but touched me so much that I would like to share. I was in walmart doing some shopping. There was a group of 5 kids and 3 teachers on a shopping trip. I could tell that it was an Autistic support class. One of the kids was clearly done with shopping and having a very loud meltdown. Everyone around them just stopped and stared. I followed the group because the teachers looked exhausted. They were trying very hard to calm their student. I just kept walking behind them and finally the child was ok. I overheard a walmart employee say that "kids like that shouldnt be in walmart disrupting everyone else" I was shocked...and in tears. I felt like she was talking about my child and he wasn't even with me! I just couldn't believe what I was hearing! So of course, I went up to the employee and stated my opinion and started to educate her! I will never get over that employee and her hurtful words. Let's be honest here..Autism is hard..but it is also very rewarding..watching your child acomplish something great! I hope that people will learn accecptance of everyone with a disability..and try to include them..and make sensory friendly areas for them! They have a right to enjoy and experience the world like the rest of us! It is going to take us as parents to work towards this goal for our children!
Dr. Maha nailed it. We experienced KultureCity's inclusion package at McWane's Science Center recently. We had already decided to get up and leave the theater if it proved to be more than our angel could handle, but knowing we had the special items if needed was assurance that she could enjoy the IMAX too. This is definitely a TED Talk that needs to be shared over and over.
I honestly got choked up watching you speak. Inclusion, it's much more than some realize. The special shopping and Santa days are great, and appreciated... but it's things like, training staff about socal struggles of everyone that has special needs, and making your whole business "inclusive" is what our families need. Our local zoo has a family Center, with an area for families to relax and have a meltdown if necessary..it's great, we use it to help us make our zoo days last longer. Great speech, thanks for sharing!
Acceptance is everything! Thank you Julian and Kulture City for helping the world become more accepting of different. Different doesn't mean less. It just means different.
This is so true. Everyone wants to feel wanted, included, no one wants to be the last one picked or excluded. Fantastic TED talk :)
This is such a powerful message. My 13 year-old grandson is on the autism spectrum and struggles to be included everyday and to fit in.
Thank you for all you have done for the autism community. My son is 8 years old and nonverbal. We take him to all autism friendly events but would love to be able to go anywhere at anytime and feel included. I hope and pray one day all places will practice inclusion for our sweet kids. They deserve to go and experience all the happiness and joy other kids do at all events and places!
Less isolation and more inclusion. I have developed a touch of isolation due to the lack of acceptance when it comes to my children. I dream of the day that sensory accessibility is no longer something we wish for but something that is made to welcome us all in. My children are special as the next child. Each individual is born unique and instead of having to explain that my children have special needs I wish for the day where I don't need an explanation for others have acceptance and understanding. This video opened my eyes more about sensory inclusion and your speech made me feel like I was included in that plan along with my children.
Very interesting speech. Our son was diagnosed when he was a little over a year old as autistic with delayed development. The road has been much harder and longer than we could have imagined. He is now 5 and is totally non-verbal, has melt downs fairly regularly and it is so hard to take him out anywhere due to the noise and crowds as spoken about in the video. Some local places do have activities that are targeted for children on the spectrum but even though these are nice gestures, our children need to be around normal children also. Our school system makes a point of putting out children with the normal children several times during the day. Most of our friends don't understand his melt downs so we don't get invited many places and even family that loves him so much can only deal with his continuous screeching, flapping and jumping for so long. We have come a long way but have so much further to go. Keep the education coming to us.
I am so happy that my two autistic kids were born at a time where all of these changes and advancements in understanding are occuring. I think that the more that the idea of sensory inclusion is adopted by the community at large, the acceptance of neurodivergences will grow in proportion. I can look at their future with less fear that they will be isolated and shunned, and instead I can see a culture of growing understanding and celebration of their differences. Sensory friendly events have been a great jumping off point, but they do still have this whole air of division from the greater community, they can also be very very crowded because the demand for these events is huge. I think that this talk points toward the logical evolution of these isolated events to a more generalized accessibility all the time. Thank you KultureCity for blazing the trail!
Absolutely love Dr. Maha. He never fails to speak such integellance on any subject.
I am honestly moved to tears by this video. Why? Because I see an organization out there making this world a better place for our kids on the spectrum. Oftentimes, parents work so hard, including me, to get our kids to conform to social standards. And it should be the other way around. There have been times that certain noises set my ASD child off. He's had meltdowns over noises like in a grocery store, with no one offering to help, I'm frantically trying to calm down my child and people just look at me like I'm a bad mom or I have a bad child. Sensory inclusion is the key.
This is a great video which shows and explains the need for sensory friendly places. As a mom of a 7 year old on the spectrum, it is hard to go places with our son because he has sensory needs, for example, dislikes loud noises, and bright lights. We as a family should not have to be excluded just because of one member in our family. Let begin to show the world we need more sensory places, so families can enjoy outings as a family. There is little acceptance to people who doesnt wear a disability on their face. This needs to be overlooked and see what the family s dealing with.
We absolutely need more sensory inclusion in this world!! My son is Autistic with SPD and there are many places he would love to visit but without the proper sensory inclusion protocols in place we aren't able to take him. It's heartbreaking as a parent not to be able to give your child the same experiences as a neurotypical child. We also desperately need businesses to step up and train all of their employees on disabilities including invisible ones! So many bad situations could be prevented by knowledge, acceptance and understanding. We need to come together as a community and help to educate and motivate others for a positive change.
It takes a TedX talk for the world to pay attention to the most common sense idea of the universe.We all belong, I tell my daughter with autism the same every day.
My grandmother used to say "Hunny God will never give you more than what you can't handle "My grandmother was a beautiful intelligent Jewish woman whom passed when I was young. Last montH God and my Grandmother challenged me. Last month I broke down. I have known for a while I told myself. How will my oldest adjust? I asked myself. Looking at the same amazing boy I walked in with. As he flapped his hands because his sister got him a new toy. It hit me. My baby was non verbal and may always be but his way of communicating to me and our family is sweet,beautiful, and amazing. I have chosen to treat this diagnoses and his newly discovered ABILITY as a blessing.
This video finally brought out the pent up tears that have been building up for the last two weeks. My seven year old aspie daughter started public school for the first time last week. How many times I've heard her say I want my hair like this so I can be normal, I want to do this so I can be like the other kids. It's the hardest thing in the world. I know in her sweet pure little heart all she wants is acceptance for who she is but yet there is this constant feeling of needing to be someone else. As a mom my heart breaks for her because I see what a blessing she is to this world... autism and all. Different not less. It is time we educate and accept. Allow all children to feel accepted for who they are and the gifts they bring to the table. My daughter is an artist, she is an actress, she has a heart of gold, she is autistic. She is beautiful.
I absolutely loved the way that he explained "sensory friendly" as compared to "sensory inclusion". Even with a son on the spectrum, I guess I never gave much thought in the difference.
I love how clearly put the point is here. Even I, having 3 autistic children, struggle to find the words to explain such things to others (or lack of patience lol). Kulturecity is such an amazing organization and I believe our children's future will have many blessings thanks to this man here.
This is a wonderful explanation to the need our community has to promote inclusion for all. The demand for his type of inclusion in my community, unfortunately, leads to most "sensory friendly" events that I've had the privilege of being a part of to be so crowded and loud that they are no longer "sensory friendly". The demand is there. We've got to embrace, accept, and educate others.
I love this video. My autistic daughter is 4 years old and I want her to have a life with tons of friends and not in classes like I was where they sit you at a different lunch table in school and have a different classroom. I want her to understand that she is and always was the same cute, funny, bossy little 1 year old before her dx that she was the same person after her dx. I think others need to see this video thanks for sharing it.
I like all the efforts I see organizations making to accommodate and include everyone of different abilities and needs. I often find myself wishing people themselves would learn the accommodation of thought and stop thinking they can pass judgment on someone's behavior. It took having an autistic child of my own to stop judging childrens' behavior in public or a parent's parenting because I realized I don't know the whole story. The most helpful thing we can do is not stare and whisper or make comments when we don't understand. If I can't help that parent (for example, I always carry disposable earplugs, and have offered them) I at least give them a smile and space because "If you can't help someone, at least don't hurt them"
I want to see EVERY place, EVERY organization, EVERY medical facility become more sensory inclusive!
I am an Aspie mom of two awesome HFA kids. My son is a sensory seeker and my daughter is a sensory avoider. My son also has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and uses a power chair. It seems that every time we find a sensory friendly event it isn't wheelchair accessible and the wheelchair accessible areas of places are usually quite loud. No matter where we try to go someone's physical or sensory needs are not being met. Our family is often split up with my husband taking our daughter to a quieter area while I stay with my son because the quieter area has stairs or is inaccessible for my son. I am grateful to places that are at least trying to "get it" by having sensory friendly days, but that is not inclusion - it is segregation. It is like saying that people with sensory issues are only welcome during these times and any other time we don't really care about your needs. Thank you for sharing simple ways that places in our communities can make us feel more included.
Awesome talk by Mr.Maha and I totally agree with him about the sensory inclusion and making people aware of the invisible disability like ptsd & autism and such. Also in my opinion it should be included in sicial studies for the kids to learn about and be compassionate for others.
As a mother of a newly diagnosed baby boy you give me hope thank you
No one deserves to excluded, whether it's the color of their skin, their religion, disability, age..we need to form a society of acceptance.
So many people with invisible disabilities are afraid to tell others. If more people understood these different types of disabilities, and realized that they know people with invisible challenges who are socially accepted, the stigma would be lifted.
I have bipolar disorder and I am open about it. As a special education teacher, when I'm talking to parents whose children have invisible disabilities , I try to be open about mine so that the shame they feel from society diminishes, to allow for parents to have more confidence in talking about the problems. And that disability does not hold back a child in being successful in life. Hopefully if it will help parents, even just a little, to be more comfortable in asking and, at times demanding, the same opportunities for their child given to typical children.
Love hearing you speak, Julian. My husband, my self and our son all have an invisible disability The thought of true inclusion gives us hope. We are one of those families that has been pushed to seclusion do to struggles. Thank you for speaking out!
All tears! Thank you for this beautiful message. And my son is autistic and I've never looked at it like it's a bad thing or when people stare at him and laugh it doesn't affect me anymore because he's awesome nobody is the same so thank you again for sharing this beautiful video some more people will understand and maybe we'll have more Acceptance in this world.
Thank you for supporting our wonderful children!!!
I have a 4yr old autistic daughter. At first I would avoid going places and doing things because I didn't want the stares or questions. It wasn't until this year when I decided no more. Why should my daughter have to go without experiences her older brother and sister got to have?. We go everywhere and do anything she loves. Love this speech and completely agree with sensory inclusion. 💙💙💙💙
This is an amazing speech and really hits close to home. This man has put into prospective what I could not sort out. Even though I feel its great that there is a better acceptance I still feel my child suffers. Thank you for this!
Educate, educate, educate, and this video has done just that. We can achieve the change that's needed through educating other's. My motto is... Be the change don't just talk about it and this video will bring change.
Today I was at the aquarium and noticed I forgot my earplugs. This saved me today. Thank you. Glad to not have a meltdown alone
Having an sensory illusions would of meant being able to take our son to things that we enjoyed, for example football, soccer, racing. The world needs to change and add sensory illusion like they are doing now in some schools, and some sporting events. My son loves watching basketball on tv and would love to go to one someday.
Thank you Mr. Maha for all you for our specially abled friends!!! Your talk was such an inspiration.
Although I am very grateful when a place has a sensory friendly times/days for my son, I have always felt that my child has autism he is not a gremlin therefore he is able to eat whenever he likes. Why does there have to be certain times and days for my autistic child to eat. If he were in a wheelchair they would have to accommodate but since he doesn't wear it on his face or in his physical appearance come back when we serve his kind. I felt to bad to say it till now, didn't want to seem ungrateful for the progress we have made! Thank you!
This video is excellent..I wanted to share my story here ..Friday my mom who has put off her dental work for years because she has a fear of leaving my brother who is severely autistic in anyone else's care had finally made an appointment and there we were in the waiting room I was sitting watching my brother (I am 19 he is 16)praying for my mom to just make it through her procedure.He was being very patient when after about an hour there were two toddlers screaming fighting in the waiting area..my brother said Shhh...the mother of the two unruly toddlers said SHHHH back towards my brother..then out comes my mom running from the back ..she knew crying or screams would trigger a fit from my brother..he was visibly upset and she just instructed him to exit we left and she never even went back into the office..there is no inclusion for him..it breaks my heart..I felt helpless ..a few moments more and my brother probably would have went into a self injurious fit screaming..he can not take certain noises he is very sensitive ..life is very unfair to him because he does have an invisible disability.. And most do not begin to understand or care.We should do everything we can to spread this message.
Beautiful message. Inclusion for all should be everyone's goal. Growing up I was taught to just deal with it.Whatever kind of issue you have is your problem nobody cares,so just hide it. Becoming a parent made me realize how wrong that was. I don't ever want my beautiful boy to hide who he is. Making businesses aware of SPD needs is essential to overall acceptance. Thank you for making this world a little brighter for all of our loves.
From the moment I realized that my not then diagnosed one year old son was uncomfortable with loud sounds, needed some serious compression when hugged, and wouldn't sleep without a MOUNTAIN of blankets covering him, no matter the weather, just for the weight, I have made a point to do everything I can to make him feel as welcome as the next person, wherever we go. I began carrying a bigger backpack instead of a diaper bag, just so there would be enough room. I made sure to have a pair of noise cancelling headphones at the ready, favorable snacks, and was quick with the hugs, as soon as I saw that he might be uncomfortable. Since then, my son isn't quite so little anymore. He's not even 10, and already over 5' tall! Now, he knows that I ask him to carry that backpack full of "just in case" because that weight will add just enough extra stimulus to keep him grounded, while keeping his headphones within easy reach. My family has always made it a point to go where we want to go, and enjoy the things that we like. If that makes other people uncomfortable, then that is something that the other person needs to work on. If the other person has sincere questions, and isn't being rude, we are more than happy to share a little about what tactics we might be using that day. We love to teach others about ways to include our son!
Awesome message! I believe we all can learn something from this man. Sensory inclusion would make life just a tad bit easier for my lil one. We need more understanding of the invisible or hidden disabilities. Knowledge is power!
The video was awesome. Some of it reminds me of my son Timmy and gives me the knowledge I'm not alone through this life with him . I know everyday is a learning experience not just for him but for me and the people I explain autism to . The more place and people that understand autism the more our children will be understood. Thank you Julian Maha for giving many of us the knowledge and we are not alone in the fight for autism community.
Thank you for doing this video, it really touched home my son was recently diagnosed with autism in March of this yr. recently we were at a play group when a parent came to me and said I really home my child doesn't come home screaming like that :-( it broke my heart to hear this and not knowing how to respond all I could say yes he is very excited and that is what he does
This video has a beautiful message. The video is something everyone can relate to and learn from. Inclusion: something we all want and it isn't hard to do!! Sharing video!
Accessibility to an equal, comfortable, and adaptable education is only one of the topics I ponder after listening to this Ted Talk. I've taught elementary/early childhood education for the past seventeen years. Now that my son with ASD is in elementary school I dream of what school would be like for him with no standards based reporting, no phonics rules to memorize, no pressure to have great handwriting for a left handed child, and no peer pressure to perform in P.E. Why does he need to conform to traditional classroom settings or even a standard school schedule?
Wow. This video was incredible, thank you so much for speaking about this subject. I understand invisible disability all too well. I have two children, they both have Autism. My youngest also has anxiety, my eldest is non-verbal. Along with their ASD comes gut issues and sensory processing disorder. I homeschool them full time. I went to school to be a special education teacher, once my oldest was diagnosed 10 years ago, I put my schooling on hold and went straight into research mode. I've dedicated my life to helping my children and being their (very determined) advocate. I wanted so much to have my children in school, around their peers. Unfortunately, there just isn't enough support for children with special needs. I fight everyday to make sure my kids feel included and safe. I sometimes see places doing sensory friendly activities. However, this is usually very seldom and the need is so high, that the activities are usually extremely crowded and thus ends up not being a very sensory friendly event. I absolutely agree that we need to move beyond that. My children should be able to enjoy activities as much as the next kid.
This video brought tears to my eyes. When Julian was speaking about his experience with Abraham, it hit home. My almost 11 yr old is non verbal. He often flaps with hands and struggles with social enviornments. When in public, he is often asked questions from strangers (such as the person at the checkout line) when he stands there, unable to answer the question, often people are quite rude or arent sure how to deal with the situation. I often have to explain that he is nonverbal and assist him in answering the question. When he is flapping, people stare and sometimes laugh. I've found that as people with Autism get older, many people are less accepting of their differences. Just last week I took my oldest to a public play place. It has large inflatables. This has been a normal activity while his younger brother is in a social ABA group. Anyway, this last week he came up to me crying. He said "play", he couldn't verbally explain his sadness, but I understood. He didn't understand how to get the kids to play with him. It just broke my heart. Unfortunately, autism awareness just isn't enough, we need acceptance too. I wish there was more in the community for inclusion. I cannot express that enough.
I myself also know what invisible disability looks and feels like at a personal level. Since having my children, I've realized I have many things in common, these things also happen to be "autism traits". I've learned I too am on the spectrum. I also have scoliosis, Pectus Excavatum, Fibromyalgia, and suffer from migraines. All these I struggle with everyday. Most cause me pain every moment of my life. I look "normal" on the outside, but I definitely don't feel that way.
Thanks again for posting this video. I can relate and appreciate you bringing attention to it.
We to like him did not understand what autism was until my daughter was diagnosed with it we've heard of the word before But we never realized the true challenges it comes with it and that you've got to learn that everybody's normal is not your normal that your normal is different from everybody and that's okay and that was hard to overcome.
Amazing talk.
Such an important talk especially in such times like these
Oh thank you for this wonderful video i believe the world needs more to be educated on this as i know i have been raising my now 9 year old grandson who has autism and your right he cant go and enjoy things like other can because of the sensory issues it breaks my heart that he cant do the thing he loves but i know some things are changing we now have a movie theater her can go to that is for scenery children this was a great video that explains a lot thank you for doing this i will be sharing this may god bless us all and you as well for doing this
This is a wonderful talk and one that many many people need to hear, especially those that aren't close to people with autism or people with special needs. I have two sons with autism and their disabilities definitely look "invisible" at first look. I, myself, have "invisible" disabilities as well. I have severe chronic pain conditions that severely limit my quality of life. Every bit of energy I have, I use to give my boys opportunities and take them to therapies and drive them to participate in special needs activities put on by charities and other kind people free of since pricy vacations aren't possible. I have also heard the "they don't look autistic" before. I so agree on the sensory inclusion vs. sensory friendly. We sometimes feel so lonely. Museums and other places are becoming more and more open to sensory friendly events but they are usually at "off" times when it isn't a busy time for them. I know they try to do these during off times so that it isn't crowded or overwhelming, but this talk is one they should see! I have also noticed a few sensory inclusion places. It was unheard of even a few months ago, but the Museum of Natural Science in Houston now does this. It was because one of their staff members has a brother with autism and started the program. I can't wait until this is the norm. I love what the Cavaliers are doing and I am now motivated to contact the Houston teams to see how we can start something like that here.
My oldest son David is on the spectrum. When we are in public he is usually very well behaved, but sometimes he gets overwhelmed and starts stimming. That's when we start getting the weird looks and the rude comments. When I do have to tell people what he's doing and why I always get the "Well I couldn't tell anything was wrong with him." "He looks so normal." comments. I have to explain to them that there is nothing "wrong" with him, he just has a different sense of the world than we do.
This is a awesome video I have taken initiative and started my tallest for sensory friendly events/ times in kcmo the royals have started sensory areas even have headphones and lap pad a employee actually helped make that happen but doesn't stop my inputs I'm kc we have a lot of inclusion I would love to see more in more cities it's the best. Julian I have been with you from the beginning I am impressed with everything you have done! i will fight along for inclusion for my 3 kids and many others out there
Thank you Julian for the video post
Hm, this gave me pause. Very good my man! Bless you
What a beautiful talk thank you so much for the inspiration
Imagine going into an arcade being over stimulated bc of the lights sounds and having a meltdown in the middle of a dave and busters.. This isnt just an example this is my daughters life. Where a simple high school volley ball game can make a meltdown occur.. If places where kids can become sensory inclusive then kids like my daughter can wear noise cancelling headphones.. Have a section of the arcade thats sensory friendly.. Where football games everywhere can become sensory friendly for kids who have memorized all the team stats and names.. If we could get aquariums, zoos, playplaces, and school dances.. It touches the lives of kids of so many precious individuals that I care about.
Love this! Keep doing what u do Julian!
I truly believe that if we all speak up and show the world how important this is and how simple the modifications are, that we will one day see a sensory inclusive world for our children. Please, I urge all of you to share this video with friends, family, and businesses around you. We can make this happen if we work together!
I am a parent of a child with special needs and many sensory issues. I am all for inclusion and making my child feel as if he fits in. We have had to deal with being excluded from many things including family functions because my family doesn't want to deal with my son. They refuse to acknowledge that he views the world around him a little differently and they refuse to help me make the accmadations so he can feel welcomed. My heart hurts for him. He sees his cousins get things from my parents but he and his sister are always left out. We do have a close family friend that tries to help my son in learning to deal with people like my family. Her daughter is also on the spectrum but much older than my son so she has already lived it. I know as a parent am inclusive world would be wonderful but knowing there will always be people like my family I plan ahead and make sure we carry our sensory bag with us to any event we attend. I have learned it is easier to explain why we carry this bag with us then to not have it and try to explain why my child is a bit out of control according to the world standards. The more I do this the more people I can help educate on invisible disabilities like autism, anxiety, depression, and POTS.
What an amazing talk !!!!!!!
Sensory processing disorders and autism are both very common yet they are both treated by the general public as if they don't exist at all. When people talk about accommodating disabilities they almost always relate it to someone who uses a wheelchair for mobility. We take a sensory bag with us wherever we go along with noise canceling headphones but that in itself is not enough. Every major sporting event and every attraction in this country has the resources and space available to to make sensory friendly areas and a room for people to utilize when they become overstimulated. Every child should have the opportunity to get out and enjoy the world and experience a wide variety of activities regardless of their disability. I don't know what all the answers are, but we can not settle for sensory friendly days or nights. It's a good start but it's just a baby step.
I have 2 children on spectrum totally on different ends. I have a super flapper and a super sensory Lil girl. just like my NT daughter but guess what we all are different. That's the wonderful thing about humans. I have anxiety but I don't look like I do either. I don't expect to be treat different either. I hope people don't look at my children as disabled or different. THEY ARE NORMAL TO OUR FAMILY.
Thank you.
And Oregon mom of 2 on spectrum
Julian Maha very powerful talk about how we all seek acceptance, inclusion. "Inclusion, accessibility, & possibilities for all. " Rox Kulliye
All children should be a part of society. Not apart of society. Inclusion is the answer.
Snuckls: Vlog
All people are always seeking a way for inclusion to happen... Why not make it possible by providing noise cancelling headphones at different places.. Dimming lights and a sensory zone.. So that families can eat at a sensory inclusion restaurant.. Sensory inclusion dances w Noise cancelling headphones for kids w autism.. And other headphones w music for all the other kids.. Without the crazy looks when my flappy child gets excited and makes a weird face bc she's overloaded... My daughter sees a world in a different way and I wish we could have inclusion at events.. While at these events we could educate kids/parents about what sensory inclusion is.. I would love if we could get some sensory bags at work as well. I work at a peds clinic and I see every day How kids w disabilities can be overwhelmed by various stimuli it would be nice to be able to give kids some sensory bags and maybe it would help to calm them down or at least help w the stimuli around them. I know how it is for my daughter and I want a inclusive world for not just her but for others as well.. Bella is so much more than her diagnosis .. Shes taught me to see things in a more beautiful way or see the world thru a different perspective!
Awesome sensory inclusion would make tons of people w sensory processing disorders life better.. Is hard to take your child w autism to games for her sister bc its too loud.. She cries at arcades.. Lets bring inclusion not exclusion in 2018!