Beyond Akeela was recently invited to give the keynote speech at an upcoming post-secondary transition fair this spring. We’re proud to be recognized as a leader in the college transition for neurodivergent students! When thinking about what to share with the students, we felt the most value we could provide was to share stories from our extensive network of Beyond Akeela alumni. We have alumni enrolled in a wide variety of college programs who are experiencing the college transition at various stages now.

So we reached out to our alumni to have conversations with them about what it’s really like to transition from high school to college. We feel so fortunate and proud to have an alumni base eager to share their stories. It was really enjoyable to catch up with them and hear about their triumphs and challenges, and certainly made us proud to do the work we do! Below are a few interesting takeaways we took from our conversations with alumni:

The post-secondary experience is not linear

Every alum we spoke with shared a story about a challenge or change of plans they faced in college or a gap program. Some changed majors after realizing their passion wasn’t their initial major. Others shared stories about setbacks they faced in classes. They all recognized a change in their path forward was necessary, and figured out what they needed to do to address situation. We have some resilient alumni!

Changing course at some point in your college career is more the norm than you may think.

There are more opportunities to find your people in college

… and you have to put yourself out there to take advantage of them! With a plethora of clubs/activities and time around consistent peers in major-related courses, our alum have found it generally easier to find their social footing in college or a gap program compared to high school. They also recognized it takes time to build a friend group from scratch, and the timeline for everyone to feel socially comfortable was different.

Making friends in college won’t happen overnight, but taking some positive social risks will take you far.

Time management is crucial

… and you can get help to master it! All our alum echoed the same message: Managing unstructured time is the biggest difference between high school and college, and a key ingredient to college success. They also all shared their strategies for managing time in college, and many shared that they seek out support for it in college through advisors and mentors.

Develop an understanding of your ability to big chunks of unstructured time. How can others support you in this effort?

Beyond Akeela alumni are awesome

Our biggest takeaway, by far, is how amazing, resilient, and motivated Beyond Akeela alumni are. We were so happy to hear them talk with pride about their experiences in college. We are so lucky to be part of their lives in some capacity, and support their college transition journey.

Ready to start your neurodivergent teen’s journey with Beyond Akeela?

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Preparing neurodivergent teens for the transition to college during high school requires a thoughtful approach that goes beyond academics. Parents play a crucial role in this process, helping their teens develop essential skills such as self-advocacy, executive functioning, and building social connections. Here’s how parents can support their neurodivergent teens in getting ready for college across sophomore, junior, and senior years.

Self-Awareness & Advocacy for Neurodivergent Teens

• Understanding Learning Styles: Encourage your teen to discover how they learn best, whether through visual aids, hands-on activities, or verbal instructions. This self-awareness will be invaluable in both high school and college, where students are expected to advocate for their own accommodations. Parents can support this process by asking questions like, “What tools help you most in studying?” or “Do you feel more comfortable in structured or flexible environments?”.
• Developing Self-Advocacy Skills: One of the most critical skills for neurodivergent teens is learning to advocate for themselves. Unlike high school, where parents and teachers handle most accommodations, college students are responsible for communicating their needs to professors and disability services. Parents can help their teens review their current accommodations and discuss what might be necessary in college, such as extended test time or note-taking support​.

Independent Living & Executive Function

• Building Time Management and Organizational Skills: Time management is a critical skill for college success, especially for neurodivergent teens who may struggle with executive functioning. Parents can assist by introducing digital tools like Google Calendar, helping their teen set reminders, and breaking down tasks into manageable chunks. Challenge your teen to manage their executive function skills such as time management, organization, and planning more independently. Summer programs that focus on executive functioning skills can be an excellent way for teens to practice organizing their time in a real-world setting​.
• Practicing Independent Living Skills: Some neurodivergent teens may live away from home for the first time when they start college. High school is a perfect time to practice independent living skills such as doing laundry, managing a budget, and preparing simple meals. Parents can encourage their teens to take on more responsibilities at home to build confidence​. After gaining some confidence in these skills at home, it’s helpful to give teens the opportunity to apply their skills in a new environment before going off to college, such a summer program on a college campus.

Fostering Social Connection & Well-Being

• Encourage Extracurricular Activities: Extracurricular activities give teens a chance to practice balancing their schedule with different responsibilities, while creating opportunities for social interactions with like-minded peers. Support your teen in finding an afterschool activity, whether it’s through or outside of school. Opportunities like volunteering, part-time jobs, or school clubs are great ways for teens to have fun in a productive way that supports their college readiness.
• Managing Stress and Mental Health: Transitioning to college can be stressful, so it’s important for neurodivergent teens to have coping strategies in place. Parents can help by promoting self-care activities such as mindfulness or exercise and discussing how to manage stress in a college environment​. Summer programs can give teens an opportunity to practice their coping skills outside of the structure of their life at home.

Exploring Interests & College Support Options for Neurodivergent Students

• Researching Various Support Services in College: Early research on the types of support available in different college environments will build confidence in what your teen is working toward. There are a plethora of programs for neurodivergent students, both within and outside of college, that offer academic, social, and independent living support in different forms. Encourage your teen to be part of the research process and engage in conversations about what type of support they may benefit from in college. Summer programs that offer college visits and workshops on accessing support in college can help build confidence in your teen as they begin to think more seriously about applying to schools.
• Exploring College Options and Campus Visits: Junior year is a prime time to begin visiting colleges and doing more in-depth research. Parents can help their teens evaluate schools based on the strength of their disability services and how supportive the campus culture is for neurodivergent students. Participating in pre-college summer programs can provide teens with a taste of dorm life and the chance to experience the type of college environment that suits them best.
• Exploring Interests and Future Career Paths: High school is a great time to start thinking about college majors and potential career paths. Parents can encourage their teens to explore extracurricular activities and summer programs that align with their interests, such as STEM workshops, arts camps, or volunteering opportunities. These experiences will help teens build confidence and discover potential fields of study.

Conclusion

Preparing for college as a neurodivergent teen requires a multi-faceted approach. By starting early, focusing on self-advocacy, and practicing executive functioning and social skills, parents can help their teens build the confidence and independence needed for college success. Summer programs designed for neurodivergent teens can be an excellent resource throughout high school, providing valuable opportunities for growth and preparation.

Let’s chat about how Beyond Akeela can support you and your neurodivergent teen as they prepare for their college transition!

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As neurodivergent teens embark on another year of their high school journey, we’ve been reflecting on how Beyond Akeela compliments their time in school. School presents opportunities for neurodivergent teens to better understand how they learn. It establishes an academic foundation to leverage in college. Summer programs offer opportunities for neurodivergent teens to foster essential non-academic soft-skills that are not honed as well in school settings.

Summer programs designed for teens with unique learning needs are increasingly recognized as pivotal in fostering crucial life skills. A recent article, “Reality Check: Are High Schoolers Ready for College?” published on TeenLife, emphasizes that developing key non-academic skills are equally, if not more important, to college success. These programs help participants build time management, self-awareness, and social skills—all of which are vital for a successful transition to adulthood and college life.

Time Management: The Key to Independence

One of the most common challenges teens face is time management. A noticeable differences between high school and college is the structure of classes and when learning happens. High school presents a rigid schedule filled with classes where most of the learning & work occurs. In college, conversely, classes fill much less of the average day. Most learning & studying occurs independently outside the classroom.

For neurodivergent teens, the challenge of this transition can be even more pronounced, making summer programs an essential intervention. Neurodivergence often presents as difficulties with executive functioning, the set of mental processes that help with planning, focusing, remembering, and juggling multiple tasks. Summer programs provide a space for teens to build and practice these skills without the pressure of academic deadlines. With personalized support and smaller groups, programs provide tools and strategies for neurodivergent teens to improve their time management skills.

Attending summer programs requires teens to adapt their daily routines to a new schedule, especially in overnight camp settings. Programs providing schedules that vary day-to-day give neurodivergent teens the opportunity to practice managing their time effectively in new settings. For example, on a typical day at Beyond Akeela, a teen may have to balance their needs to go grocery shopping, complete their laundry, and spend some social time with friends. By doing so, they begin to grasp how to balance multiple tasks, stick to schedules, and meet deadlines—skills that are not only essential for college life but also adulthood.

Developing Self-Awareness: Understanding Strengths and Needs

Self-awareness is another critical skill for neurodivergent teens. It involves recognizing one’s strengths, challenges, emotions, and the impact these factors have on day-to-day life. This self-knowledge is especially important for teens preparing to navigate environments where independence and self-advocacy are key, such as college or the workplace.

Summer programs offer neurodivergent teens the chance to explore and understand how they process information and emotional triggers in a supportive environment. For example, a teen participating in a coding program may realize that they work better when given more time to process instructions. They may identify that they excel in collaborative settings but need to improve their focus when working alone. These insights can help them advocate for the accommodations they need in future academic or social situations.

Moreover, self-awareness extends beyond academic abilities. Emotional regulation and understanding are equally important. Neurodivergent teens can often feel overwhelmed by their emotions or find it difficult to express themselves. Many summer programs for neurodivergent teens incorporate coaching through mindfulness, journaling, or counseling services, which allow teens to explore their emotions and better understand how to manage them. This increased self-awareness leads to improved emotional resilience and self-confidence, both crucial for navigating the complexities of social and academic life.

Building Social Skills: Connection and Communication

Social skills are another essential area of development for neurodivergent teens. Summer programs create opportunities for practicing these skills in real-world settings. Neurodivergent individuals may find social interactions challenging, whether due to difficulties with communication, understanding social cues, or managing anxiety in group settings. Summer programs are designed to help teens practice these interactions in a supportive, low-pressure environment.

For example, camps or summer programs focused on team-building activities, such as group projects or outdoor adventures, offer neurodivergent teens the chance to engage with peers in a structured way. These settings allow them to practice initiating conversations, sharing ideas, and collaborating with others—all while receiving in-the-moment feedback and guidance from trained staff. Over time, these experiences help teens gain confidence in social situations and develop meaningful relationships with others, skills that are critical for success in college and adulthood.

The TeenLife article highlights that high schoolers, in general, struggle with communication and collaboration as they transition to college. For neurodivergent teens, these challenges can be even greater. However, summer programs specifically tailored for them can bridge this gap, offering targeted social skill building that equips them to thrive in future environments.

Conclusion: Setting Teens Up for Future Success

Summer programs designed for neurodivergent teens offer much more than just a break from academic stress. By focusing on time management, self-awareness, and social skills, these programs provide the tools and experiences that neurodivergent teens need to navigate life’s challenges more confidently. With these essential skills in place, they are better equipped to face the demands of college and adulthood. As the TeenLife article underscores, preparing for college isn’t just about academic readiness—it’s about building the life skills that will help teens succeed in every aspect of their future.

For young girls on the autism spectrum, the world can feel like a kaleidoscope of confusion and contradiction. They possess incredible brilliance, a vibrant tapestry of unique interests and perspectives. Yet, navigating the intricate dance of social interaction often demands a painful sacrifice – masking. They contort their natural expressions, suppress their passions, and mimic neurotypical behaviors, all in an attempt to blend in, to be accepted. This article delves into the intricate world of masking in girls with ASD and shines a light on social skills camps specifically designed for them, spaces where masks fall away and authentic connections bloom.

Beyond the Facade: Understanding the Complexities of Masking

Imagine a young girl whose eyes light up at the mention of constellations, her mind brimming with facts about distant galaxies. But in the schoolyard, she whispers her passion, fearing the teasing gazes of her peers. This is the reality of masking for many girls with ASD. They master the art of camouflaging their autistic traits – stimming behaviors, intense interests, and sensory sensitivities – in an effort to conform to societal expectations.

Why do girls on the autism spectrum mask?

• Social Survival: They perceive masking as a necessary tool for social survival, a shield against potential rejection and isolation.
• Internalized Norms: Societal messages that equate “different” with “wrong” fuel their desire to fit in, leading them to internalize neurotypical norms.
• Emotional Regulation: Masking can be a coping mechanism for managing anxiety and overwhelm in social situations.

But the cost of masking is high. It stifles their authentic selves, fuels anxiety and depression, and hinders their ability to build genuine connections.

A Sanctuary of Acceptance: Where Social Skills Camps Make a Difference

Imagine a space where a girl can openly discuss her fascinations without fear of judgment. Where sensory sensitivities are understood and accommodated, and where friendships blossom based on shared experiences and genuine connection. This is the transformative power of social skills camps designed specifically for teens with ASD.

These camps offer a unique haven:

• Belonging & Acceptance: Surrounded by peers who share similar experiences and supportive staff, girls shed their masks and embrace their authentic selves. They feel accepted and celebrated for their unique strengths and quirks.
• Building Bridges of Friendship: The opportunity to connect with other girls who “get it” is invaluable. Camp fosters a sense of belonging and empowers them to navigate the social world with confidence.
• Tailored Skill Development: Through engaging activities and workshops, girls learn and practice social skills in a safe, supportive environment. They gain confidence in initiating conversations, advocating for their needs, and managing social anxieties.
• Unlocking Passions & Understanding Sensitivities: Camp activities cater to the unique interests of each girl, providing a platform for exploration and self-discovery. Sensory sensitivities are acknowledged and accommodated, creating a comfortable and inclusive environment.

Check ou this study that helps validate the power of these camps:

• A study by Kasari et al. (2012) found significant improvements in social communication skills and emotional regulation in autistic children attending social skills groups.
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3238795/

These findings underscore the potential of social skills camps to empower young girls with ASD, equipping them with the tools and confidence to navigate social interactions authentically and build fulfilling relationships.

Building a Ripple Effect of Acceptance

Creating a world where girls with ASD can thrive requires a ripple effect of acceptance. Beyond the transformative experiences of camp, their journey needs continued support:

• Empowering Families: Equipping families with an understanding of masking and its impact empowers them to advocate for their daughters and create supportive home environments.
• Inclusive Schools: Collaborative efforts between families, educators, and mental health professionals can create inclusive and supportive school environments that celebrate neurodiversity.
• Community Awareness: Raising awareness about masking in girls with ASD within communities combats stigma, fosters acceptance, and creates opportunities for understanding and inclusion.

Beyond Akeela Camp Empowers Girls to Shine

Imagine a future where young girls with autism, free from the constraints of masking, confidently share their brilliance with the world. You can be part of making this vision a reality. Social Skills and College Transition Camps for Girls with Autism provide transformative experiences that empower these incredible young women to shed their masks and embrace their authentic selves.

Beyond Akeela is more than just a camp; it’s a catalyst for change. With our unique blend of social skills development, college transition preparation, and celebration of individual strengths, we create a ripple effect of empowerment that extends far beyond the campgrounds.

At Beyond Akeela, we welcome a neurodivergent population of teens that typically have diagnoses of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Level 1, ADHD inattentive type, and Non-Verbal Learning Disorder (NVLD). NVLD is not as well-known as some other learning disorders, and its similarities with ASD can sometimes lead to confusion. This page aims to shed light on what NVLD is and how it shares certain characteristics with ASD.

What is NVLD?

Non-Verbal Learning Disorder is a neurological condition that affects cognitive and social skills, with individuals typically struggling in areas related to non-verbal communication, visual-spatial awareness, and motor coordination. Unlike other learning disorders, individuals with NVLD often excel in verbal abilities, displaying strong language skills and a propensity for rote memorization.

Common Traits in Teens with NVLD:

Verbal Abilities: Despite challenges in non-verbal areas, individuals with NVLD often are verbally fluid in conversation. They may possess a rich vocabulary, good verbal memory, and advanced reading abilities.

• Non-Verbal Communication: Individuals with NVLD may struggle to understand and interpret non-verbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. This can lead to difficulties in social situations and hinder the development of relationships.
• Spatial and Motor Coordination: NVLD can impact spatial reasoning and fine motor skills. Tasks like organizing a backpack, tying shoelaces, or understanding spatial relationships can be challenging for individuals with NVLD.
• Executive Functioning: Executive functions, such as planning, organizing, and managing time, may be impaired in individuals with NVLD. This can affect academic performance and daily life tasks.

NVLD and ASD: A Closer Look at Similarities

While NVLD and ASD are distinct neurological conditions, they share certain characteristics that we often see in Beyond Akeela teens.

• Difficulty with Non-Verbal Communication: Both NVLD and ASD can manifest in challenges related to non-verbal communication. Difficulty interpreting body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice is a shared characteristic.
• Social Challenges: Both NVLD and ASD can involve difficulties in social interactions. Individuals may struggle to understand social cues, leading to challenges in forming and maintaining relationships.
• Routine Oriented: Individuals with both NVLD and ASD may exhibit a preference for routine and take time to adapt to unexpected changes to that routine. Typically, previewing changes to routines helps with the transition from one environment to another.
• Sensory Sensitivities: Teens with ASD & NVLD can both struggle with processing too much sensory stimuli, such as light, sound, or touch. Providing sensory friendly environments can lead to more confident and comfortable teens.

Here are some great resources for teens with NVLD and their families:

• NVLD Project
• Quick Guide to Non-Verbal Learning Disorder (NVLD)

Connect with us to discuss whether Beyond Akeela is a good fit for your teen with NVLD!
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Budgeting is an independent living skill that is crucial to thrive as a young adult. In addition to building beneficial financial habits, budgeting can help neurodivergent teenagers take responsibility, distinguish between needs and wants, and prepare for emergencies. However, with the constant allure of advertising, we often crave items we do not need or buy things impulsively. Here are some practical tips to help you budget!

Helpful Budgeting Tips

• Write Down How Much You Spend

One of the first steps to successful budgeting is to track your spending. Write down everything you spend your money on. This practice makes you mindful of where your money is going. It’s surprising how small expenses, like vending machines or daily coffee runs, can increase over time. Tracking your expenses helps you identify areas where you can cut back.
1. Create a Priority List of Expenses
   Start by listing the essential expenses that you need to pay. Rent or housing costs, utility bills, and groceries should be at the top of your list. Prioritizing these necessities ensures that you meet your financial responsibilities.
2. Do Not Save Your Card Information Online
   To avoid impulsive online purchases, do not save your card information on shopping websites. Having to enter your card details manually can serve as a helpful deterrent and give you extra time to think before making a purchase.
3. Put Items on a Wishlist for a While
   Similarly, when you want to buy something non-essential, add it to a wishlist and wait for a specific period, like a week or a month. This gives you time to think if the purchase is still appealing. You’ll often find that you no longer want the item as badly as you initially thought.
4. Give Yourself a “Cushion” for Extra Spending
   Allow yourself some freedom in your budget. Create a set amount extra you can use from your budget each month. For example, you have $50 extra for anything you want each month. This way, you have some room for spontaneity without overspending.
5. Set Intentional Times to Not Spend Money
   Set specific times when you consciously avoid spending money. For instance, commit to not spending money during certain days of the week except for essential expenses. This can be an excellent way to reset your spending habits and save more.

How we Practice Budgeting at Beyond Akeela

Beyond Akeela recognizes the importance of teaching neurodivergent teens budgeting skills. We have three main ways we support teens in developing these skills.

1. Curriculum Session on Budgeting
   We offer a structured curriculum session to support teens in understanding the importance of budgeting and providing practical tips on how to create and maintain a budget. This session gamifies budgeting to make it fun and easy to understand. It also provides an overview of basic financial tools (eg. credit & debit cards, bank accounts) teens will encounter as they become more independent managing their money.
2. Opportunities to Practice Budgeting Independently During Trips
   Trips provide our teens with real-life opportunities to practice budgeting. They will gain hands-on experience making financial decisions and sticking to a budget. Similarly, teens have to make choices about spending on campus, with access to vending machines and other small spending opportunities.
3. Constant Support and Coaching on Budgeting from Advisors
   Beyond Akeela staff provide continuous support and coaching on budgeting. Whether teens have questions or need guidance, the advisors are ready to assist teens in managing their finances effectively.

Financial literacy and budgeting are undertaught concepts that are important to feel competent in as a young adult. At Beyond Akeela, you can develop essential financial skills while feeling empowered and confident. Connect with us to learn more about how we support neurodivergent teenagers in thriving independently.

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