AIMING BETWEEN
THE LINES
Answering your questions and breaking the stigmas around special education
Permission to Disappoint: Escaping the People-Pleasing Trap
We’ve been taught that being agreeable, helpful, and accommodating is the polite thing to do—but when you start saying “yes” at the expense of your own well-being, it’s no longer kindness. It’s self-erasure. In Permission to Disappoint: Escaping the People-Pleasing Trap, we explore why the need to please others runs so deep, how it quietly drains your energy and self-worth, and what it looks like to finally start honoring your own needs—without apology.
Inside AIM: How the Grad Enrichment Series is Empowering Career Growth Through Real Stories
At AIM, we believe everyone’s career journey is worth sharing—and learning from. That’s why we launched the Grad Enrichment Series, a powerful interview project where team members open up about their real-life career paths, motivations, and moments that shaped them. Whether you're a grad assistant exploring your future or just love a good story, this series offers inspiration, connection, and a behind-the-scenes look at what makes AIM so special.
Acceptance Is the New Awareness: Why It Matters More Than Ever
Awareness may open the door, but acceptance is what truly creates space for belonging. For years, the focus has been on Autism Awareness—acknowledging that autism exists. But acknowledgment isn’t enough. Autism Acceptance means embracing neurodiversity, celebrating differences, and creating environments where autistic individuals can thrive as they are—not as society expects them to be. In this blog, we explore why acceptance matters more than ever and how each of us can take meaningful steps toward a more inclusive world.
Polished but Drained: The Perfectionism Behind Neurodivergent Masking
“Masking isn’t just about ‘acting normal’—it’s about survival. For many neurodivergent individuals, every social interaction is a performance, every workday a test in self-control. They may appear calm, focused, or even exceptional on the outside, while inside they’re navigating a storm of anxiety, exhaustion, and self-doubt. The polished exterior hides the toll of perfectionism and the pain of never feeling fully seen. Over time, this double life doesn’t just drain energy—it erodes identity.”
The Gut-Brain Connection:
Ever had a "gut feeling"? Science confirms that the gut and brain are deeply connected. The gut microbiome influences mood, anxiety, and cognitive function by producing neurotransmitters like serotonin. Poor gut health can lead to inflammation, hormonal imbalances, and mental health challenges. A balanced diet rich in probiotics and fiber supports both digestion and emotional well-being. Want to boost your mood? Start with your gut!
Impostor Syndrome:
Do you ever feel like you don’t deserve your success, like you’re just waiting for someone to “find out” you’re not as capable as they think? That nagging self-doubt is known as impostor syndrome, and it affects countless high achievers, perfectionists, and professionals stepping into new roles. Despite their proven abilities, many struggle with feelings of fraudulence, attributing their accomplishments to luck rather than skill.
In this blog, we dive into the causes of impostor syndrome, from perfectionism to societal pressures, and provide actionable strategies to silence self-doubt. Whether it’s reframing negative thoughts, tracking achievements, or embracing lifelong learning, you’ll discover tools to build confidence and own your success. Plus, we share must-read books and insightful podcasts to help you break free from impostor syndrome once and for all.
You are not an impostor—you are capable, worthy, and more than enough. Let’s move past self-doubt and step into your true potential.
Sensory-Friendly Spring Break:
Spring break is a time for relaxation, adventure, and making memories—but for neurodiverse children, the break in routine can bring unexpected challenges. Sensory sensitivities may make typical activities overwhelming, but with the right accommodations, your child can still have a fun and stress-free break. From noise-blocking headphones to water play, discover simple, sensory-friendly activities that promote comfort, creativity, and joy. With a little planning and flexibility, you can create a spring break experience tailored to your child’s unique needs, ensuring they feel safe, engaged, and ready to enjoy the season.
OCD in Children: When Quirks Become Compulsions
Every child has their own routines and habits, but when do these behaviors cross the line into something more? Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in children is more than just a preference for order or cleanliness—it’s a condition driven by anxiety and compulsions that can disrupt daily life. In this blog, we break down the signs of OCD in kids, how to differentiate between normal habits and compulsions, and what parents can do to support their child. From understanding the causes to exploring effective treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), this guide provides essential insights to help children manage OCD and thrive.
The Power of Executive Functioning:
Executive functioning skills are essential for success in daily life, impacting everything from academic performance to workplace efficiency and social interactions. These cognitive processes help individuals plan, organize, manage time, and regulate emotions. However, when executive functioning is impaired, tasks like following instructions, staying focused, and managing responsibilities become challenging. This blog explores the critical role of executive functioning, why it matters, and practical strategies for supporting both children and adults in developing these essential skills. Whether you're a parent, educator, or professional, discover how structured routines, time management techniques, and emotional regulation strategies can foster growth and long-term success.
Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder:
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a condition that affects how the brain interprets sensory information, leading to heightened sensitivity or an under-responsiveness to stimuli like touch, sound, and movement. Often mistaken for ADHD, autism, or anxiety, SPD can have profound effects on both physical and mental health, making everyday environments overwhelming. For children, early intervention through occupational therapy and sensory-friendly adjustments can provide essential support, while adults diagnosed later in life can benefit from workplace accommodations and self-regulation strategies. Understanding SPD is the first step in creating a more inclusive world where individuals with sensory challenges can thrive.
Parent Guilt & Neurodiversity: Finding Grace in the Journey
Parenting a neurodivergent child comes with unique challenges, and for many parents and guardians, guilt becomes an unavoidable companion. The worry of missing early signs, the pressure to do more, and the constant comparison to neurotypical peers can create an overwhelming emotional burden. However, instead of letting guilt dictate the journey, parents can choose to embrace grace, adaptability, and self-compassion. In this blog, we explore the roots of parent guilt, practical ways to break free from it, and how shifting perspective can transform guilt into empowerment. Remember—you are doing your best, and that is more than enough.
Deep Kindness
Kindness is often perceived as simple gestures—a smile, a kind word, or a helping hand. However, in Deep Kindness: A Revolutionary Guide for the Way We Think, Talk, and Act in Kindness, Houston Kraft challenges us to rethink our approach. He introduces the concept of Deep Kindness, an intentional and courageous practice that goes beyond surface-level niceties to create meaningful, lasting connections. True kindness requires vulnerability, effort, and self-awareness—qualities that demand us to step outside of our comfort zones and truly engage with the world around us. By recognizing the barriers to kindness, such as fear and busyness, we can start cultivating a culture of compassion that transforms both our personal and professional lives.
Spotlighting an SLP
Speech-Language Pathologists play a critical role in transforming lives, from helping young children develop language skills to guiding adults in reclaiming their voices. In our latest blog, we sit down with Gabby Juarez, a dedicated AIM SLP, to uncover her journey, the day-to-day realities of her role, and the profound impact she makes on her students. From her early days navigating the field to her current work in elementary schools, Gabby shares invaluable insights into the world of speech therapy. Whether you’re curious about the profession or simply want to be inspired, this is a story you won’t want to miss!
