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What does your “LOVE” look like?

Written on February 20, 2012 at 2:29 pm by by Lauren, your Sensory Design Specialist

February, the month synonymous with “LOVE” – except, I’ve noticed it’s become more about pressure than simply expressing the tender warm & fuzzy way we feel about one another, especially our uniquely fabulous kids – I wonder why…
Don’t you?
I do, and it doesn’t need to be that way. After all, we all express our emotions differently. Whether it be an actual gift of some sort, an unexpected “good deed,” a kind word, something yummy or a big, gushy hug – just making the concerted effort can get the point across. But… how often do we attach ourselves to the more “grandiose” displays of affection and miss the simple but precious efforts made to convey our feelings??
Don’t fret! We all have those moments, but there’s NO need to miss anything or put pressure on yourself, your partner, spouse, significant other or more importantly, feel slighted or personally hurt if your child can’t express themselves in the traditional ways we’ve all come to expect… The love is in the effort, the progress, the commitment, the determination and the one moment that your child does something small, even trivial to others… but – in that moment, all the love and appreciation for you is expressed and you’re forever assured of the love your child holds for you.
That’s when your child truly becomes your teacher. That’s the kind of “valentine” that never gets old… it’s often in these moments that we’re taught about the word “expectation” and that it’s something we could all do without- (at least once in awhile.) It can really set us up for failure and cause us to continually compare ourselves, rather than just stand confidently where we are and move forward at our own pace… then our journey is about discovery and the finish line is whenever we want it to be. Success and fulfillment is inevitable that way…

Happy LOVE day EVERY day !  ”expect nothing and receive everything…” xoxox
Remember…
“There is no greater power in the Universe than the power of Love. The feeling of love is the highest frequency you can emit. If you could wrap every thought in love, if you could love everyone and everything, you’re life would be transformed.”
-Rhonda Byrne, “The Secret”

Your Resident Sensory Designer / Color Expert  - Lauren S. Henry / Color Creates Change !

HAPPY NEW YEAR, WELCOME 2012!

Written on January 1, 2012 at 8:19 pm by by Lauren, your Sensory Design Specialist

Hi Everyone!

Hope you’ve all taken some time to ring in the New Year in with JOY, GRATITUDE and OPTIMISM - after all, no matter where you may have found yourself at the end of 2011, or now, at the beginning of 2012, you almost assuredly have something to be grateful for… just that should be enough to keep you smiling!  Friends, family, and health are tremendous gifts – appreciate any and all of these “presents” and know how much more lies ahead. :-D

I’m so tremendously thankful to have all of you as a part of my life and the With a Brush of Love community… you are the reason we’re here.  As long as we can make a difference, offer support, guidance and information, we are committed to doing so! Thank You for sharing your lives with us and offering friendship to one another. Together, we’ll continue to change lives and inspire each other!

Bring on the NEW YEAR!

Your Sensory Designer & Color Expert

Lauren S. Henry

“Color Creates Change”

Suggestions for Holiday Happiness

Written on December 15, 2011 at 10:06 pm by by Lauren, your Sensory Design Specialist

So, what do you do when you find your child’s mood swinging back and forth for no reason, or a holiday “funk” arrives at the most unexpected time OR, you’re finding that you are stuck and don’t know why?  Well, while there may not always be an overnight cure, there are some fairly simple “overnight-ish” remedies… here’s just a few.
  • Be introspective.  (a bit like oxygen for you) to then share some with your child.  Then, if and when possible, observe.  In our excessively busy and over-scheduled days, there must be a point when you STOP and take the time to connect. Particularly at home, with your child.  If they like to sit on the floor, sit on the floor with them.  Place yourself physically, at their level rather than the other way around. That way you are entering their world not pulling them into yours.  By doing so, it will be much easier to discover the things that are affecting them, both good and bad.
  • Pay Attention.  Do NOT follow the aforementioned steps, begin to participate in their world and then bring your smart phone along for company. Suffice it to say that the only focal point should be that of your child and the rapport, trust and consistent relationship you’ll be building in his/her world rather than the other way around.
  • Believe it or not – you are laying a different kind of foundation with your child.  While there is an inherent and organic trust between child and parent, this is a different kind of trust. It’s a trust earned by the parent that let’s your child know that you “get them” you “see them” just as they are. (thanks “AVATAR”)   Not only does it diffuse their personal feelings of possible inferiority but it also assures them that you will find ways to communicate with them and meet them where they are no matter what. In turn, they feel safe, validated, heard and at ease that they are not “wrong”, “less than” or “lacking” and will feel more self-confident to try things that do not come as easily to them as it may for others. You will notice patterns of behavior based on their feelings and experiences throughout the day and you will also notice what their “go to” is to express their feelings. Colors, crayons, music, puzzles, words, stimming etc… but rather than it seeming random and frustrating, it will become more of a language between you and reveal what’s happening for them. They will also feel ok to share those forms of expressions with you if you show them and assure them that it’s allowed and welcome. They will start to feel comfortable in their own skin and appreciate the unique gifts they will discover about themselves much sooner!  You will also begin to feel more connected as a parent in ways you may not have expected as well as in ways parents of “neuro-typical” kids aren’t even aware of!
  • HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

Your Sensory Designer & Color Expert!

Lauren S. Henry :-D


The Holidays are Here and…

Written on November 11, 2011 at 2:29 pm by by Lauren, your Sensory Design Specialist

First let me say, NOVEMBER!! Seriously?!!   Where does the time go?? I realize it’s been quite awhile since my last post, and all I can say is that I’ve been traveling since mid September and ended up being away longer than anticipated, so my apologies for being off the radar for so long!  That being said, I’ve no doubt that you all understand how life can take hold and side track you and consequently, I find myself catching up just before the holidays arrive! and then, it dawned on me… no matter what time of year it is, there always seems to be a holiday lurking around the corner. There’s also a ton of anticipation, fun that lie ahead! However, it’s not always so easy for our kids to take part in all the excitement. Bright colors, loud sounds, visual chaos and over stimulation and even claustrophobia…. so how does a parent deal with these challenges while still maintaining the joy of the holidays??  Here are some suggestions… but feel free to email me with your own fabulous ideas and suggestions!  It’s always helpful to learn more creative ways to make a difference and empower one another!

1. Know your child’s patterns and anxiety levels.  Be aware of what colors, sounds, textures and level of stimulation they can handle and use that as your guideline.

2.  Don’t go overboard with the theme and decor of the holiday.  Consider selecting 2-3 colors and stick with them rather than utilizing several all over the place.  Make sure whatever you do select is not too bright, or is only used as an accent, regardless of what your child requests. It’s important to remember they don’t know what their triggers are, but you do and if you’re not sure, you should be.  Not everything they want will support them on a grand scale, so when in doubt, less is more.

3. Bring the outdoors inside.  Incorporate nature into your decor, i.e. pine cones, leaves, twigs etc… you can spray paint or hand paint them, glue a little bit of glitter on them, ribbon, etc… The outdoors are a source of balance and help to keep us “grounded.”
and here’s to a happy, healthy, holiday season!!   Look forward to hearing your holiday tales -

Your Resident Sensory Designer / Color Expert
Lauren S. Henry

How “friendly” is your favorite color??

Written on August 22, 2011 at 12:46 pm by by Lauren, your Sensory Design Specialist

I was just curious… do you know how significant color can be in terms of affecting both you and your child’s focus, concentration, mood and overall ability and attitude?  I’m guessing like most of us, it probably hasn’t dawned on you. After all, with all the things there are in life to be concerned with right now, color and your surroundings are generally not something that would be at the top of your list. That being said, I’ve a feeling you wouldn’t be at all surprised to know that everyone is dramatically and subliminally affected by color, particularly when different types of light enter into the equation – So, consider these few things and let me know what you think, especially if you relate to anything I’ve mentioned, I’d love your feedback!
 
 When you enter a particular room in your home, ask yourself what the goal for that space is – whether it be for you, your family, or your guests, especially if it’s meant to be a multi-purpose space for all of the above. Then, see how you feel, what you’re drawn to and what makes you even a little uncomfortable. (but, pay attention and don’t “blow off” whatever feelings may un-nerve you) ask other family members as well.
 
Again, ask yourself some more questions (you’ll start creating a much more intimate relationship with yourself!) What do you consider you’re favorite color and why… and  when you say, “i don’t know why” I’m promising you, you absolutely do! Ask yourself how this color makes you feel, (good, bad etc…) and really notice your immediate reactions. Your answers can be very telling and revealing in terms of how you’re affected by certain colors as well  as particular shades of that color.
 
Once you have the answers to some of the aforementioned questions – I’d like you to consider a few more things… whether for you or your child, remember that just because you’ve now identified your favorite color,  that doesn’t mean it should surround you on a grand scale or will work for you emotionally in any room. Rather, it helps you understand how and where it will work best.  You should also be aware that just because you find a design that’s aesthetically appealing to you, that also doesn’t mean you don’t need to consider whether or not that design supports both you or your child’s individual mental, emotional and psychological needs within that space, not to mention the intended function of that space.
Hope this helps!  Get back to me and let me know if it does…
Your Sensory Design & Color Expert!
Lauren S. Henry
Remember, “Color Creates Change!”

With a Brush of Love presents… Keri Bowers, Tuesday – July 26th ! 10am (PST)

Written on July 25, 2011 at 9:02 pm by by Lauren, your Sensory Design Specialist

Tomorrow – Remember, KERI BOWERS of NORMAL FILMS – 10am (PST) Tues, July 26th, will be the guest on my show, “With a Brush of Love presents…” on Blog Talk Radio via Family Network Radio!! Filmmaker, Mother, Author, Autism Advocate, Artist you DON’T WANT TO MISS THIS!! Call in at 424-220-1804

Which Crayola Crayon are YOU today??

Written on July 23, 2011 at 4:53 pm by by Lauren, your Sensory Design Specialist

I was just wondering, do you ever notice how you feel when you begin your day? Does your child’s attitude or behavior ever mimic your own? Do you wonder what kind of day it’s going to be for both of you OR do you decide what kind of a day it’s going to be?? What if you took some control back and determined the course of your day? YOU Choose your experience – You could even use color as a form of communication in establishing the way he/she might be feeling as compared to the way he/she wants to feel… Here are some suggestions, let me know your thoughts as I’m always interested in your feedback!!

- Use colored pieces of construction paper or crayons and ask them to pick the color that best expresses how they’re feeling at that exact moment. Often, if the vocabulary isn’t always there and social cues are challenging with regard to emotions, utilizing something else to represent an emotion is much easier to use to determine an emotion; and therefore, how they’re feeling. You can work on there state of being by using the colors and what they represent to your child to connect, express and determine how they feel vs. how they want to feel – the same goes for as well.
- When your son or daughter delves into an activity on their own, see if you can quietly join in! Emulate exactly what they’re doing, mimic the same activity and create connection in that way. Whether immediate eye contact takes place or not, he/she will be highly aware of your presence,
That’s what’s most important!

Remember, Color Creates Change!

With Love & Light…
Your Favorite Sensory Designer/Color Expert!
Lauren xo

How are YOU Doing

Written on June 29, 2011 at 4:42 pm by by Lauren, your Sensory Design Specialist

I realized, or perhaps… remembered something today.
Since it’s Sunday, it makes sense that it seemed to hit me
on the day typically dedicated to respite. To retreat,
re-group; and rejuvenate preparing for the week ahead. It
dawned on me that we rarely remember that while the weekend
is meant for relaxation and family, it’s often filled with
errands, the needs of our kids and responsibilities. But,
when do we remind ourselves that if we don’t replenish
ourselves, we can’t take care of anyone else?

Clearly, not often enough.  I want to give you permission… before you give
your oxygen mask away to anyone else, breathe long and deep
and make certain you tend to yourself first – You must
practice being there for yourself before focusing on anyone
else…

Guilt is an unnecessary and wasted emotion. When it
comes, acknowledge it, be civil and let it go just as
quickly as it came. Don’t bother interacting with it or
offering it any attention.

Trust Yourself. One of the gifts and the burdens of
having a woman’s DNA is that gut feeling, that
“sixth sense” of ours. The ability to continue the inherent
physical connection between mother and child, the one thing
that never dissipates with age. Don’t question
your gut or allow other people’s personal biases or
opinions taint what you feel in your heart to be true.
We can lie to others, but we always know the truth in our
heart. Pride has no place in making decisions that effect
our children. So, trust yourself.

I hope this is helpful, let me know if you relate and what YOU think…

Remember, Color Creates Change!

With Love & Light…
Your Favorite Sensory Design Specialist!
Lauren

Ready, Set, Lights!

Written on June 25, 2011 at 6:28 pm by by Lauren, your Sensory Design Specialist

I was in a local restaurant with a friend the other night and was reminded once again how the elements of one’s surroundings can change one’s entire experience.  While it was lovely, and the lighting was somewhat dim, the sound started to become overwhelming with the noise of enthusiastic discussion, the lights changed again, making it hard to read but clear that we were entering late evening and I felt as though my experience was being controlled by a “puppeteer”, a “wizard” if you will…(I didn’t have any ruby slippers though :)    someone maneuvering the lights, sound, temperature – the overall construction of the room even changed throughout the night.  Then, as quickly as everyone entered and the lights went down, all at once the lights became brighter, the sound began to ease and the crowded room dissipated quickly, the evening was over and no words were ever spoken to convey that message.  The environment did all the talking…

Do you ever notice how  important finding just the right “ambiance” is when you’re choosing  restaurant for a special occasion?  Creating a specific atmosphere at home or simply want a place to relax?  Well, lighting is the star of that show – every other decision we make when creating a space is going to be dramatically affected by the type of lighting you select.

So take time to consider how you want your child to feel in each space they spend time in and what function they need to accomplish in that space as well.   If you are focusing on all the right elements, you will be able to create the most optimum and individualized surroundings for your child, yourself and your entire family!

If you find yourself in a space that has any kind of florescent lighting that can’t be easily replaced, this is my suggestion. GET RID OF IT! and you’ll even save money! Simply turn off the lights and purchase cheap stand alone lamps i.e.(Target, Walmart, Ikea)as well as soft light and white bulbs. Use these stand alone lamps in place of the overhead florescent lights whenever possible. When combined with the natural daylight, you’ll have the most optimum lighting possible!

– Another thought – rather than selecting the typical switches, I find that dimmers often work a bit better in terms of convenience, controlling the exact type of lighting you prefer, as well as supporting your mood or when necessary, assisting you in changing it!

- Finally, just keep a few things in mind. Of course, we all want to keep costs down, be “green” and do what is best for our family’s – but, there’s so much discussion about energy consumption that some important facts tend to be overlooked. While those big curly light bulbs, Compact Florescent Light bulb (CFL’s ) are wonderful at saving on your energy bill, please remember to be cautious about where you use them. They contain mercury and if and when broken, it is not something that can be easily “cleaned.” Dispose of them with gloves and use a couple of trash bags when removing them from your home. This is important, don’t be fooled by the “minuscule” amounts of mercury quoted on the light bulb labels, if at all. It’s too easy to avoid unnecessary complications and health issues in your home.   So jump in, make small changes and allow yourself to feel empowered, you CAN make a difference!

Remember, Color Creates Change!

Your Favorite Sensory Design Specialist & Color Expert,

Lauren

Artism!

Written on June 25, 2011 at 3:48 pm by by Lauren, your Sensory Design Specialist

This Tuesday, June 28th, With a Brush of Love presents… Debbie Hosseini, Founder of artismtoday and the Author of “Artism” – a beautiful book of art – various styles, subjects and interpretations by artists diagnosed with autism!  Debbie’s work has been inspired by her incredibly talented son Kevin and the journey she’s been on with him.  Her attitude,l viewpoint and website have been an inspiring resource within the community for a number of years and we’re thrilled to have her with us!  Remember to jump on the blog talk chat room (family network radio) the facebook chat room (family network tv) or call us directly at 424-220-1804, we’d love to hear from YOU!