At The Robert Norton Foundation, often referred to as "Give Kids A Voice" (GKAV), we're constantly striving to enhance the user experience and ensure that every child has access to the tools they need. Our AAC devices now support both Spanish and English translations, complete with the option to select a male or female voice....
Welcome to another Foundation Friday, where we focus on initiatives and stories that uplift, educate, and inspire. Today, we're shedding light on a particularly misunderstood and often underestimated group: non-verbal individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Breaking Stereotypes: Beyond Being Non-Verbal It's a commonly held but misguided belief that being non-verbal is synonymous with a lack of...
The dawn of a new school year often ushers in a flurry of emotions for parents: anticipation, nervousness, and hope. For those supporting a non-verbal child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), such as Robert, this period can be especially poignant. Building bridges with teachers and therapists, understanding classroom dynamics, and ensuring the continuity of therapeutic...
Being a parent to a non-verbal autistic child can be uniquely challenging, and it requires a delicate balance. Not only do you have to cater to your child's unique needs, but you must also ensure that your spouse, other children, and, importantly, you are not left behind. In our journey together, let's explore ways to...
We’re back today to explore a crucial aspect of parenting a non-verbal autistic child - teaching self-soothing techniques. Managing emotions can be uniquely challenging for these children, particularly because of communication difficulties. However, with tools like Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices, which our foundation is proud to supply free of charge, we can bridge...
Greetings from the Robert Norton Foundation! Today, we wish to highlight a program that has been making a significant difference in the lives of many families worldwide - the Sunflower Lanyard Program. The sunflower, with its cheerful color and robust nature, symbolizes strength, positivity, and resilience, an apt representation of our children with hidden disabilities. The...
On behalf of the Robert Norton Foundation, we'd like to shine a light on a challenging yet underexplored facet of family life within the autism community: being a sibling to a non-verbal autistic child. Navigating this journey as a parent is often a road less traveled, filled with joys, hurdles, shared experiences, and unique personal...
We have entered the chapter of double digits!We are celebrating a big milestone in our family this week as Robert turned 10 years old on June 28th. This brought back so many memories from the very first time I heard his heartbeat, to the first time I held him, to hearing him laugh and giggle....
Our application is completed! (YAY!!) We are beyond excited and proud to be able to annouce that our application is complete and we are ready to start helping families just like ours, give their children a voice. We need your help! We are looking for 5 families who have non-verbal children to test our application....
When school breaks for summer, the long, free days can seem daunting for parents, particularly those of non-verbal autistic children. Finding ways to keep them entertained, engaged, and continuing to learn can feel like a challenging task. But fear not, summer can indeed be a time of fun, growth, and togetherness. Here are some suggestions...