It’s been a breath of fresh air for Kristyn Traynor, a mother in the Sacramento area, to discover activities and playgroups where her 3-year-old daughter, Bloom, can now play and feel at ease. Kristyn’s daughter was diagnosed with autism just last year and is non-verbal.
Inclusive space for ASD children
Before finding the playgroup, Kristyn struggled to find places where Bloom could comfortably interact. Autistic children are just not ‘allowed to express themselves’ in public places, Kristyn commented. The new playgroup she found, which is run by experts from the UC Davis MIND Institute, has been a welcoming and inclusive space for her daughter Bloom.
The child can at least jump, run, and play alongside other children without feeling like an Alien from another world. Just seeing her daughter blend in and not stand out makes Kristyn ‘feel included’, too.
A smooth transition into pre-K or kindergarten
Beginning on January 21st, the playgroup will convene at the Franklin Community Library in Elk Grove. This location offers a safe and free environment for children ages 0 to 5 with unique needs, such as disabilities, Autistic or neurological disorders, and physical limitations. With the assistance of child psychologists and teachers, it also prepares children for a smooth transition into pre-K or kindergarten.
In fact, the playgroup activities are designed to stimulate the child’s senses and allow them to practice important social skills such as turn-taking and imitation. From sensory play with water and bubbles to interactive games like ball pits, the children are given opportunities to develop these skills in a fun and engaging manner.
At first, Kristyn’s daughter was hesitant and stood in a corner, unsure of how to join in. However, with Kristyn’s and other children’s support and understanding, she gradually became more comfortable and now eagerly looks forward to attending every week. This positive experience has even helped her nonverbal communication as she expresses her excitement through gestures while entering the playgroup.
Inclusive spaces, such as the UC Davis MIND Institute playgroup, provide a sense of belonging and acceptance for children diagnosed with Autism. We know this because, at Sacramento ABA, we have witnessed its positive impact on the children in our care. When children feel included and accepted, they are more likely to thrive and reach their full potential. And with the support of understanding parents like Kristyn, this can become a reality for all children with disabilities.
Acceptance and understanding for children with disabilities
We hope to see more playgroups like this one across Sacramento and beyond, creating a community of acceptance and understanding for children with disabilities. For parents who are looking for a quality Autism diagnosis for their child, perhaps you want to confirm a diagnosis or want to understand your child’s behaviors better; Sacramento ABA offers comprehensive evaluations and individualized treatment plans.
We aim to help children reach their full potential and thrive in all aspects of their lives. So, let’s continue to create inclusive spaces and support systems for children with disabilities because every child deserves the chance to play, learn, and grow.
