why are girls so confusing?

Interpersonal relationships are challenging for those on the spectrum, that's not news... what is news, is the reason why.  In Jake's case, it's not only because nonverbal cues are confusing, it's because he feels others' emotions too.  Combine that with uncertainty about communication and the feelings girls cause in his body... relationships are a scary thing.  Jake is often times much happier alone bc it's stress free. 

confusion & fear and the need for control

The latest in Jake's grand purge.  Hope this helps others understand autism a bit better! 

anxiety & social situations

Pushing teens with into new social situations is a challenge, but also a necessity. Jake needs to learn how to manage his multiple disabilities across a variety of settings. It's hard. It's tiring. Our guy is worth it. Enjoy and share if you think it might work for others.

Behavior Speaks Volumes,
Look and LISTEN 

Behavior is communication.  I've said it a thousand times and truly believe this.  Acting-out can come in many forms from aggression to attention seeking to annoyance.  Sometimes I think Jake is just being a turkey, in the wake of recent activities, I will always look beyond what I actually see.  Autism Parents Read This! 

Pills, Police & Scariest Day of our Lives 

Yep, our kid is the police ambassador.  Yep, he's taught more than 2,000 police.  Yep, he's been honored state-wide and nationally, but you know what?  He's still an impulsive teenage boy.  Decisions happen in a split second and the results will change your life and how you view it.
A warning for all autism parents is here. 

Dichotomy of Autism 

It's those moments when they take your breath away with pride then completely exasperate you the next.  You know them!  It's how we live on the spectrum.  Events of late have me swinging between elation and exasperation often. And can you guess Jake's "worst bad word ever"?  It starts with "SH...."  Read the Dichotomy of Autism!  

Teach Simple Love

These days it's critical everyone energize themselves to teach our next generation love, instead of hate and judgement.  Our efforts to do this in our family, have led us to feeding the homeless.  Jake is beyond excited when he "works for God" and you can share the same feelings with your kiddo. Read it here!

All the Needed Pieces Will Fit

We all struggle with the mystery of life and want the best for our children. Recognizing that our life picture may not look like someone else's expectations, is important for growth and acceptance of all families. There's no room for criticism and judgement but lots of room for celebrating when each piece fits into place. 

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Consulting services, motivational speaking and training for Law Enforcement and Caregivers ​

jake's vlog 
Jenn and Jake are available for presentations to law enforcement agencies, religious/faith groups, special ed teachers classes, parent groups, schools, PTA's, and parent-ed nights. Click here. 
 "Jake...you are an amazing young man. Thank you for changing the world one day at a time. I am honored to know you and call you my friend." 
Assistant Chief of Police Betsy Davis, Montgomery County Maryland Police Department
“ Jake is a great kid who will be famous and rule the world one day. Good for us, to get on the Jake bandwagon early! Jake is motivational and represents both the struggles and accomplishments of a person with Autism.”   Ofc. Laurie Reyes, MCPd  autism and alzheimer's outreach
"That kid is an amazing young man and I wish we could bottle his spirit and spread it around this country. Wow!"
​ Retired First Sgt. Chris McClellan, North Carolina Highway Patrol
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