From Barriers to Breakthroughs

Name changed to "Carter" to protect privacy.

When Carter first began treatment, participating in therapy was a significant challenge. In the clinic, he could only tolerate about 45 minutes of treatment before severe aggression and self-injurious behaviors interrupted learning. Recognizing that he needed a different approach, his treatment team partnered with his family to transition services to the home setting. The change transformed his ability to engage, and today Carter consistently participates in two-hour therapy sessions four days each week with improved regulation and focus.

Since receiving services in the environment where he thrives, Carter has made meaningful progress in behavior regulation, social interaction, and communication. He now shares preferred items with staff, tolerates others joining his play, and is using both his voice and his AAC device more consistently to communicate his wants and needs. His parents have been invaluable partners throughout the process, actively participating in training and confidently implementing strategies that support Carter's success at home. Together, this individualized, family-centered approach has created lasting progress and a strong foundation for Carter's continued growth.

 

Iowa State Fair - Sensory Friendly Day

Now in its fifth year, the Iowa State Fair is offering “Sensory-Friendly Morning” on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, offering a welcoming and accessible Fair experience for individuals and families. Thoughtful adjustments are made across the Fairgrounds to reduce sensory overload, including lower sound levels, limited flashing lights, clearly marked directional signage, designated educational areas, and trained volunteers throughout the morning.

For the morning, two air-conditioned calming rooms will also be available for anyone needing a break. “Calm Your Body” Room – A quiet, relaxing space with fidgets, dimmable lighting, soothing music, coloring sheets and soft seating will be in the Robert G. Horner and Sheri Avis Horner Service Center. “Move Your Body” Room – An active area featuring stretching, jumping, therapy balls and a small obstacle course will be in the Richard O. Jacobson Exhibition Center classrooms. Both rooms will be staffed by Child Serve Occupational Therapists from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, August 19.

A full schedule of Sensory-Friendly Morning fun is available at www.iowastatefair.org.

Can’t make it that morning? The Fair offers sensory-friendly features every day! Visit the website for daily recommendations and activities designed for individuals with sensory processing needs. The Service Center’s calming room is open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Get ready for your day at the Iowa State Fair with a social story!

 

We Joined the Sticker Trend

If you've noticed people adding fun little graphics to their texts lately, you've seen the latest phone trend: custom stickers! We've created a set of Balance Autism-themed stickers that you can save and use in your text messages, social media stories, and more to show your Balance Autism pride.

How to save them on your iPhone:

1. Tap and hold an individual image, or take a screenshot, to save it to your phone.

2. Open your photo gallery and select the newly saved image.

3. Press and hold until it prompts you to “Add Sticker”.

4. Tap Add Sticker (or copy/save the image, depending on your iOS version).

5. Open Messages, tap the + button or Sticker icon, and start using them in your conversations!

We'll continue adding new designs throughout the year, so keep an eye out for future sticker drops.