Blog Layout
St. Louis Murals: A Vivid Tour of the Gateway City's Street Art
Autism Learning Collaborative
St. Louis Murals: A Vivid Tour of the Gateway City's Street Art
Welcome to St. Louis, where the walls speak and the city is an open-air gallery of vibrant murals. If you're looking to explore the rich tapestry of culture, history, and creativity that St. Louis offers, this guide to the city's most iconic murals is your perfect starting point.
The Colorful Crossroads of Cherokee Street
Cherokee Street is known for its eclectic vibe and dynamic art scene. As you walk down this bustling avenue, you're greeted by murals that tell stories of the community and its diverse heritage. Don't miss the Cherokee Street Mural located at the intersection of Cherokee and Texas avenues, which bursts with color and life, representing the spirit of local businesses and the neighborhood's cultural fusion.
The Grove's Growing Gallery
The Grove neighborhood is transforming into one of St. Louis's premier destinations for street art. The vibrant Manchester Strip features walls adorned with everything from abstract patterns to realistic portraits. Be sure to check out the Equality Mural on Manchester Avenue, a powerful piece celebrating diversity and unity.
Grandeur on Grand Boulevard
Stroll along Grand Boulevard and discover large-scale murals that add a splash of grandiosity to the cityscape. The Grand Arts Mural is a must-see, showcasing St. Louis's rich musical and performance history with a nod to its bright future in the arts.
Locust Street's Lively Canvases
Locust Street is home to an array of murals that capture the innovative and progressive spirit of St. Louis. The Innovation Mural, located in the heart of the business district, is a tribute to the city's growing tech scene, featuring pixelated patterns and digital motifs.
Washington Avenue's Walk of Fame
Along Washington Avenue, you'll find the St. Louis Walk of Fame Mural. This striking piece immortalizes famous St. Louisans who've made significant contributions to the world. Each figure in the mural is an invitation to explore the city's rich history and the legacies of its influential residents.
Tips for Your Mural Tour:
Comfortable Footwear: You'll be walking quite a bit, so wear comfortable shoes.
Camera Ready: Have your camera or smartphone charged and ready for photos.
Local Eats: Many murals are near local eateries, perfect for a quick bite.
Weather Prep: Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly; a lot of mural viewing is outdoors.
Guided Tours: Look for guided mural tours that may be available to provide in-depth about the artwork and artists.
Community Engagement: Engage with the local community—many murals are created with deep neighborhood ties, and the residents can offer unique insights into the art.
Map It Out
Before you head out, consider plotting your mural visit on a map. St. Louis has its murals spread out across various neighborhoods, and having a planned route can help you make the most of your day. You can create a personalized mural trail that suits your interests, whether it’s in one neighborhood or across several.
St. Louis’s murals are more than just art; they are conversations set in color, dialogues expressed in brush strokes, and emotions captured on concrete. They tell the story of a city that’s constantly evolving, remembering its past while painting its future. So, grab your walking shoes and your sense of wonder, and step into the painted streets of St. Louis. Happy mural hunting!
About the Authors
Autism Learning Collaborative is a leading provider of ABA therapy in Omaha, Albuquerque, Oklahoma City, and St. Louis to children ages 18 months and up. We understand the difficulty of dealing with uncertainty and are prepared to assist you with our collaborative developmental therapy support. Autism Learning Collaborative employs a team of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBT) that can assist you with resources to help comfort your child during stressful times. We include parent training as collaborative support for the whole family. If you need more information, don't hesitate to call (844) 978-3852 or contact us at info@autismlearningcollaborative.com with your questions or to enroll. We accept most insurance plans and offer full and part time programs as well as in-home therapy options with no waitlist.
Being a parent of a neurodiverse child has its own set of challenges. Challenges that can be so unique that a practitioner may have to get creative with evidenced-based interventions. Being a parent of a neurodiverse child AND a practitioner is a completely different story. Especially 10-15 years ago. Let’s talk about this. Many years ago, I knew my then 2-year-old daughter was different. Whenever anyone asked me how she was different, I could never put my thoughts adequately into words. “She is just different.” The general response would be, “Well, she just NEEDS discipline. Spank her, put her in time out.” I had so many conflicting feelings about this. My instincts were screaming “THIS IS NOT RIGHT!” My brain was at battle with myself daily. I fought negative thoughts and comments from family telling me I was not a good mother or parent, and my child was unruly. At 2 years old, my daughter was engaging in screaming, kicking, biting, hair pulling, crying, scratching, punching and slapping behaviors during transitions from the home to the community. She did not prefer ANY change to routine, did not like various smells, lighting, and sounds. She struggled with social and play skills with peers and only wanted one person, ME, her “momma”. Getting the Diagnosis: Fast forward through years of struggles, heartache, trauma and being ostracized (not only myself but my child by family and peers), she got a diagnosis! After visiting numerous physicians (so many I lost count) and countless misdiagnoses, she was FINALLY diagnosed at the age of 10 years old with Asperger’s Syndrome. The uphill battle began with family, friends and her school district. During this entire time, I continued to hear what a terrible mother I was and witnessed my child being excluded from school functions by her peers and being bullied daily. Helping as a Parent: I accessed any resource I could to help her. There was not much to choose from. Most of the resources were for children with level 3 autism spectrum disorders or significant behavioral issues such as drug or alcohol dependency. Nothing, absolutely nothing, for a high functioning child with sensory and social skill needs. At that time, the only true resource we had available was an intensive parent training program and ABA services for my daughter. During this time, I saw her blossoming. It gave me hope. It inspired me to get into this field I so adore today. I say all of this NOT to discourage parents from seeking help. I share my story to reflect on how much this field has changed in 10+ years. Today, the resources are plentiful. Private and public ABA resources from schools to individual companies and government funded programs. ABA practices focusing on assent-based, trauma-informed, evidence-based interventions. Absolutely incredible the amount of assistance to help our children of all ages. Trust your Gut! As I reflect on these changes, I can’t help but wonder how all of these resources would have impacted my daughter and my other children like her not so long ago. My momma heart swells with pride thinking of how much she has overcome to get where she is today. For all the parents out there who may be listening to the “noise” of others, DON’T. Follow your instincts, seek the resources, advocate for your child. You got this! Lori Vitello, MA, BCBA, LBA Autism Learning Collaborative St. Louis In-Home Branch Assistant Clinical Director www.autismlearningcollaborative.com
The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.
Receiving an autism diagnosis for your child can evoke a complex tapestry of emotions, from confusion and concern to love and determination. As parents embark on this journey together, supporting each other becomes as crucial as supporting their child. This blog explores the emotional dynamics within families navigating an autism diagnosis, offering practical advice to foster resilience, communication, and a balanced approach to caregiving. Understanding the Emotional Impact The initial phase following a diagnosis can be overwhelming. Acknowledging your feelings and giving yourself permission to experience a wide range of emotions is a crucial first step. It's important to remember that feelings of grief, frustration, and even relief are normal as parents come to terms with their new reality. Communication is Key Open and honest communication between parents is foundational. Regular check-ins where each person can express their feelings, fears, and hopes without judgment can strengthen your partnership. Consider establishing a weekly 'heart-to-heart' session where you can discuss not just the challenges but also the victories, no matter how small. Supporting Each Other Supporting each other doesn't always mean having all the answers. Sometimes, it's about listening or simply being there. Develop a code word or signal for those moments when you're feeling overwhelmed and need a break or extra support. This can help maintain a supportive environment even in the midst of stress. Finding Balance Finding balance between caregiving, personal well-being, and your relationship can seem like a daunting task. It's essential to carve out time for self-care and each other, apart from your roles as parents. Engaging in individual hobbies or activities and scheduling regular date nights or activities as a couple can help maintain a strong bond. Practical Strategies for Caregiving Educate Yourselves Together: Learning about autism as a team can help align your understanding and approach to care. Websites like Autism Speaks (www.autismspeaks.org) offer comprehensive resources for families. Create a Support Network: Connecting with other families navigating similar experiences can provide emotional support and practical advice. Online forums and local support groups can be valuable resources. The Autism Society (www.autism-society.org) is a good starting point for finding community connections. Seek Professional Guidance: Sometimes, professional support is necessary to navigate the complexities of autism. Family therapy or counseling can provide strategies to strengthen your relationship and family dynamics. Apara Autism offers free consultations, you can schedule yours here. Focus on Strengths: Every child with autism has a unique set of strengths and abilities. Celebrate these strengths and incorporate them into daily activities and learning opportunities. Establish Routines: Children with autism often thrive on routine. Working together to establish and maintain consistent daily routines can benefit your child and reduce family stress. In Conclusion Navigating the emotional landscapes of autism requires patience, understanding, and teamwork. The journey is long, but together, you can navigate the challenges and celebrate the joys that come with raising a child with autism. By supporting each other, maintaining open communication, and taking care of your own well-being, you can build a strong foundation for your family and your child.
Learn the ABCs of behavior, the motivations of behavior, and how to manage problematic behavior with Amberly, a clinical director of an Autism therapy facility.
Create a fun Valentine's sensory bin or bottle for your child! Engage their senses with this easy, inexpensive DIY activity. Perfect for sensory-friendly fun.
Beat the summer heat with five fun family activities: homemade popsicles, indoor camping, a hula hoop hideout, glow-in-the-dark baths, and building ice castles.
Discover effective strategies for a successful school year: building teacher relationships, understanding IEPs, and advocating for your child's education.
Explore how smart technology enhances safety and independence for children with Autism through motion sensors, smart locks, and more.
The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.
As the calendar turns to January, we embrace the spirit of new beginnings. This is a time for reflection, planning, and setting goals, not just for ourselves but also for the special children in our lives undergoing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. The new year brings a unique opportunity for therapists, parents, and children to collaboratively set realistic and meaningful goals in ABA therapy. Understanding the Importance of Goal-Setting in ABA Therapy ABA therapy is centered around the individual needs of each child with autism. Goal-setting in this context is not just about achieving specific skills or behaviors; it’s about creating pathways for children to realize their potential and improve their quality of life. Well-defined goals provide direction for therapy sessions and a framework for measuring progress. Collaborative Goal-Setting: A Team Effort One of the strengths of ABA therapy is its collaborative nature. Therapists, parents, and sometimes, depending on their age and ability, the children themselves, should be involved in the goal-setting process. This collaboration ensures that goals are not only tailored to the child’s needs but are also aligned with family values and real-life situations. Strategies for Identifying Goals Assessing the Child’s Current Abilities: Start by understanding the child’s strengths and areas where they need support. This can involve direct assessment by the therapist and input from parents and educators. Setting SMART Goals: Goals should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For instance, improving two-way communication skills over three months is a SMART goal. Prioritizing Goals: Not all goals are created equal. Some skills might be foundational and need to be achieved before others. Prioritize goals based on their impact on the child’s daily life and overall development. Measuring Progress Regular assessments and observations are crucial in tracking progress. Celebrating milestones, no matter how small, is important. Progress in ABA therapy is not always linear, and every small step forward is a victory. Tips for Parents Be Consistent: Try to reinforce the goals set in therapy at home. Consistency is key in ABA therapy. Stay Informed and Involved: Regular communication with the therapist can provide insights into how best to support your child’s goals at home. Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your child’s achievements, however small they may seem. This encourages them and shows them the value of their efforts. Conclusion The new year is a time for new goals and fresh starts. In ABA therapy, setting achievable goals is essential for the continued progress of children with autism. By working together, therapists and parents can create a supportive and effective environment for these children to thrive in 2023 and beyond. Let’s use this opportunity to reflect on past achievements and chart a course for a year filled with growth and learning.