Below is a  list of common gluten containing foods and ingredients that are known to potentially cause issues for individuals sensitive to gluten or those on the autism spectrum who are trialing a gluten-free diet:

Foods That Contain Gluten

1. Wheat-based products: Bread (white, whole wheat, rye, multigrain)Rolls, buns, and bagelsPancakes, waffles, and crepesPasta (spaghetti, lasagna, macaroni)Pizza doughCrackersCereals (e.g., wheat bran, wheat germ, shredded wheat)

2. Barley and rye-based products:Barley malt (used in malted milk, malt vinegar, and candies)Barley soupRye bread and crackers

3. Baked goods:Cakes, cookies, muffins, pastriesDonuts, croissants, and pies (with regular crusts)

4. Snacks:PretzelsGranola bars (unless labeled gluten-free)Snack mixes (often contain wheat-based crackers)Flavored chips and popcorn (if seasonings contain wheat)

5. Processed and packaged foods:Breaded meats or fish (e.g., chicken nuggets, fish sticks)Meat substitutes (veggie burgers often contain gluten)Soups, especially creamy or canned varieties (may use wheat as a thickener)Sauces and gravies (often thickened with wheat flour)Salad dressings (some use gluten-containing additives)Soy sauce (unless labeled gluten-free, as many contain wheat)

6. Beverages:Beer and ales (made from barley or wheat)Malt beveragesCertain flavored coffees or teas (if additives contain gluten)

7. Pasta and noodles:Spaghetti, fettuccine, and macaroni (unless made with gluten-free flours)Ramen noodles (traditional varieties)

8. Deli items and processed meats:Sausages, hot dogs, and cold cuts (often contain fillers with gluten)Meatballs (if breadcrumbs are used as a binder)

9. Desserts:Ice cream with cookie or brownie chunksPies with regular crustsCheesecake with graham cracker crusts

Hidden Gluten Sources

These can sneak into your diet unexpectedly:

1. Seasonings and spice blends: May include wheat as an anti-caking agent.

2. Bouillon cubes and broths: Some contain gluten as a thickener.

3. Candy: Licorice, malted chocolates, and some gummies.

4. Imitation seafood: Often bound with wheat-based starch.

5. Medications and supplements: Certain coatings or fillers may contain gluten.

6. Vinegar: Malt vinegar is not gluten-free.

7. Breading and coatings: Often used in fried foods.

What to Look for on Labels

• Ingredients to avoid: Wheat, barley, rye, malt, spelt, triticale, and durum.

• Watch for additives: Hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP), modified food starch (if source is not identified), and malt extract.

Safe Gluten-Free Alternatives

If you’re avoiding gluten, these substitutes can help:

• Gluten-free bread, pasta, and snacks made with rice, almond, or coconut flour.

• Naturally gluten-free grains like quinoa, rice, millet, amaranth, buckwheat, and oats (certified gluten-free).

I’ve been in situations where I’ve seen someone clearly struggling, covering their ears, pacing, or just looking like the world around them is too much. It hits close to home because I know what that feels like for people I care about. In those moments, it’s not about stepping in to fix anything. It’s about being present in a way that feels safe for them.

I’ve learned that small things matter. Sometimes it’s just stepping back to give them space or slowing down how I move and speak. A soft tone, calm energy, and avoiding sudden gestures can go a long way. It’s not about asking them to adjust to the world but meeting them right where they are and helping make things a little easier.

That’s why Faith on the Spectrum is so important to me. We’re working to help people understand sensory needs because when we get it, when we really see what someone is going through, we can make a difference. Inclusion isn’t about big changes; it’s about little moments of kindness and awareness that let someone know they’re not alone.

We all have the power to help create a world where everyone feels safe, understood, and included. It starts with noticing, caring, and taking those small steps to make life just a little more manageable for someone else.

Faith on the Spectrum: Meeting Everyone Where They Are.

Imagine for a moment the sound of sirens wailing nonstop, bright lights flashing, the smell of smoke still thick in the air, and the hum of constant activity all around you. For most people, this would be unsettling and stressful. But for a highly sensitive individual, particularly someone with autism or sensory processing challenges, this experience isn’t just uncomfortable, it’s overwhelming, terrifying, and sometimes even debilitating.

During the recent wildfires in Los Angeles, families have been forced to evacuate their homes, leaving behind their routines, their safe spaces, and in many cases, their coping tools. For highly sensitive individuals, this disruption to normalcy paired with the sensory overload of fire alarms, flashing lights, and the chaos of evacuation centers can be almost impossible to bear.

The sirens that signal safety for most of us? For someone with sensory challenges, they can cause physical pain, anxiety, and meltdowns. The bright lights of emergency vehicles or crowded shelters? They feel like an assault on the senses. The smell of smoke in the air? It’s a constant trigger that makes it impossible to relax or focus. These individuals are not just uncomfortable—they’re in a state of constant fight or flight, trying to navigate a world that feels completely out of control.

At Faith on the Spectrum, we’ve seen how important it is to provide sensory-friendly tools and resources to those who need them most, especially during times of crisis. That’s why we’ve started a PayPal fundraiser to ensure that individuals with autism and other sensory needs can get the support they desperately require during this challenging time.

What Your Donations Will Provide

We’re committed to making sure every dollar raised goes directly to helping individuals with sensory challenges find some sense of comfort and stability. Here’s how your donations will make a difference:

• Weighted Blankets: These can be a lifeline for individuals experiencing sensory overload, providing a calming, grounding effect when the world feels too chaotic.

• Noise-Canceling Headphones: The piercing sounds of sirens and alarms can be unbearable. Headphones can block out these noises, offering relief and a chance to focus.

• Visual Timers and Communication Boards: Routines have been completely disrupted, which can be deeply distressing. These tools help individuals communicate their needs and understand what’s happening around them.

• Sensory Toys and Fidgets: Small items like sensory balls, chewable jewelry, or fidget spinners can provide an outlet for nervous energy and help calm the mind.

• Calming Lighting Devices: For individuals who are sensitive to bright or flashing lights, a small, soothing light source can make a huge difference in creating a sense of safety.

• Emergency Kits: Including familiar items like snacks, water, and other essentials tailored to sensory needs, so they don’t have to go without the comforts that help regulate their emotions.

Why Your Help Matters

We’ve only just begun this fundraising effort and have gotten our first donation, every single donation big or small makes a difference. Even with the small start we’ve made, we know these contributions will go directly to families who are struggling to help their loved ones cope. For these individuals, it’s not just about physical survival, it’s about emotional and sensory survival too.

This is why we’re asking for your help. Together, we can provide the tools and support that will help these families navigate this incredibly difficult time. Let’s show them that they’re not alone and that their needs matter.

If you’re able to contribute, no matter how small the amount, please visit our PayPal fundraiser here: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/TMZQ4DMZ7JRT6

If you can’t donate, sharing this message is just as valuable, it spreads the word and connects us with those who might be able to help.

These families are facing a storm in every sense of the word, and for some, it’s more than they can handle alone. Let’s come together and bring them a little peace in the chaos.

Thank you for standing with us.

Stimming is such a fascinating part of autism.  It is a way for kids like my son to regulate their emotions and make sense of the world around them. My son loves his taggie, and he moves it in the air like a snake. He’s not just playing, he is finding comfort in the way it flows and moves. That movement helps him feel grounded and calm, especially when things around him get overwhelming.

The tricky part with stimming is that while it’s essential for them, it doesn’t always fit neatly into the world’s expectations. Some stims are sweet and harmless, like the taggie dance. Others, like scratching or banging, can be tough to handle as a parent. I have learned the key isn’t stopping it, t’s redirecting it when it becomes harmful or disruptive. Chew toys, fidget spinners, or even creating a special “safe space” can help.

At the end of the day, stimming is part of who they are, and it’s up to us to balance understanding, acceptance, and safety. And if my son’s taggie snake brings him joy? You better believe I’m cheering him on.

I’ve noticed that so many people have questions about autism, and I think that’s amazing because it shows a desire to understand and connect. Autism is part of our everyday life, and I’ve seen firsthand how beautiful, challenging, and unique that journey can be. So, I wanted to take some time to answer some of the most common questions about autism in a way that feels honest and personal.

Is Autism a Disability?
Yes, autism is considered a developmental disability because it can impact communication, behavior, and how someone experiences the world. But here’s the thing: autism doesn’t define anyone. Each person has their own strengths, talents, and perspective that make them who they are. Our Special Interest Buddies at Faith on the Spectrum help individuals discover and embrace those strengths, often through their passions or hobbies.

What Causes Autism?
The exact cause of autism isn’t fully understood, but research suggests it’s likely due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. While some theories, like vaccines or food preservatives, have been proposed, studies continue to show no link between vaccines and autism. Genetics often play a significant role, and while environmental factors may contribute, there’s no single cause known. My focus has always been on understanding, supporting, and celebrating my son who has autism rather than what caused it.

Can Autism Be Cured?
Autism isn’t something to cure because it’s not an illness. It is a different way of thinking, feeling, and being. Support, understanding, and early intervention help autistic individuals thrive, but the goal is never to "fix" them, it’s to help them navigate the world and be celebrated for who they are. 

Is Autism Really More Common Now?
You might have heard that autism diagnoses are on the rise, and that’s true. Some believe it is because more people are autistic and some believe it’s because we’re getting better at recognizing it and understanding its many forms. To me, both of these opinions both mean more people are getting the support they need.

Why Do People with Autism Stim?
Stimming is something we all do in some way, think about tapping your foot or twirling your hair when you’re nervous or excited. For autistic individuals, stimming is a way to regulate emotions or deal with sensory input. It might look different, like hand-flapping or repeating words, but it’s their way of saying, “I’m managing something right now.”

What’s the Deal with Trains and engines?
Not all autistic people love trains and/or machines with engines, but many develop deep interests in specific topics. Trains and Engines are a common one because they’re structured, predictable, and fascinating. My son loves anything from a lawn mower to a snow plow all the same. At Faith on the Spectrum, our Special Interest Buddies help kids and adults discover these passions, whether it’s trains, dinosaurs, or art, and encourage them to explore and grow through those interests. To read more on this topic take a look at our Facebook post. 

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568671775699

Why Understanding Matters
I share all this because I want people to know that autism isn’t scary or strange, it’s just different. Different can be an amazing! With patience, understanding, and the right support, autistic individuals can lead joyful, fulfilling lives. 

If you’d like to learn more, check out our Facebook and read our blog. Together, we can build a world that celebrates everyone’s unique story. And if you want to chat more about this or share your opinion submit a message below, we would love to hear from you.

Snow has this incredible way of turning everything into a magical wonderland, doesn’t it? Everything feels softer, quieter, like the world’s been wrapped in a big fluffy blanket. For families like ours, though, snow days can come with their fair share of challenges. Sure, it’s beautiful, but getting outside to enjoy it? That’s a whole different story.

Let’s start with the prep. Layering up for the snow is no joke. There’s the coat, snow pants, gloves, boots, hat, scarf, it’s like gearing up for battle! Now imagine you’ve got sensory sensitivities. Those gloves might feel too tight, the boots might rub the wrong way, and that scarf? It’s itchy no matter what you do. It can quickly turn into a meltdown before you’ve even made it to the door.

Then there’s the cold air. For some kids, that first gust when you open the door can be a shock. The brightness of the snow, the sounds of snowblowers or plows, it’s a sensory overload waiting to happen, it a lot for their brains to process all at once.

And don’t even get me started on the sweating! All those layers to keep them warm, and before you know it, they’re overheating. One second they’re freezing, and the next they’re stripping off gloves and hate, maybe even throwing them which is a sign of a meltdown because they’re too hot. It’s a balancing act for sure.

Here’s what we’ve learned, you’ve got to take it slow and ease into it. Snow can be such a weird sensation for kids who haven’t experienced it much. It’s cold and wet, and it crunches under your feet in a way that might feel or sound strange. Giving them time to adjust can make all the difference.

Noise is another thing to think about. The hum of snowblowers and plows can be overwhelming. If that’s a problem think about bringing the noise-canceling headphones, they can be a lifesaver. Or just stick to quieter spots, maybe the backyard instead of the park.

The thing is, snow really is magical, and it’s worth the effort to help your kids enjoy it in a way that works for them. Maybe that means watching it fall from the window with a cup of hot chocolate. Maybe it’s building the world’s smallest snowman on the front steps. It doesn’t have to be a full-blown sledding adventure. Just a few minutes of joy in the snow can create memories that last a lifetime.

Explaining things to neurodivergent thinkers can sometimes feel like you're speaking a completely different language. It's not that they don't understand—it's just that their brains process things in such unique and thoughtful ways. And when they ask a question, it's not just a passing thought; they genuinely care about the answer and want to understand it deeply.

Take, for example, trying to explain the concept of a "new year" to my son. For him, time is a bit more abstract, and the idea of weeks, months, and years doesn’t quite click the way it does for others. Explaining that we’ve entered a new year was a bit of a challenge. I found myself trying to break it down in simpler terms, something he could grasp. I explained it like this: "This is a fresh start, like when you finish a big project or a game and then start something new. It’s like the calendar turning a page, but it means we get to do new things and see new days."

Sometimes, it's not about what’s easy for us to explain but about finding a way that makes sense for them. It’s like showing a different side of the same picture. For some kids, we need to talk in terms of experiences rather than abstract concepts. For others, visuals or comparisons to things they already understand can work wonders. I’ve had to describe time in ways that make sense for my son, like explaining it like a long road trip where each year is a new part of the journey.

The beauty of neurodivergent thinkers is how deeply they think about the things they ask. They might ask a question that seems simple on the surface, but they are genuinely diving into it, trying to make sense of the world around them. And that’s something I deeply respect. Their curiosity might look different from how others process, but it’s just as important and just as meaningful.

It’s a reminder to us all to slow down, rethink how we communicate, and show patience as we try to explain things in ways that make sense for each individual. It’s not always easy, but the effort is always worth it when we help them make the connections that matter most.

Finding the perfect gift for my son is always a bit of a challenge, and I’ve learned that it’s never quite as simple as picking up the latest popular toy. Blaize’s interests are so specific, and that’s part of what makes him so special. He’s completely fascinated with machines including lawnmowers, leaf blowers, washing machines – you name it. He can sit and watch them for hours, completely absorbed in how they work. But that also means shopping for him isn’t as easy as just getting the next big thing that everyone else seems to be into.

Last Christmas, I remember feeling a little stuck. What do you get a kid who’s more interested in a washing machine than a flashy new toy? It's not that I don’t want to get him something he’ll love,  it’s just that his passions are so specific, and sometimes, the gifts out there don’t match that or are not practical. There are no “popular” toys that truly capture his love for machines in the way he experiences it. It’s like his interests don’t always fit in with what’s on the shelves, and I know other parents of kids with unique passions probably feel the same.

But here’s the thing: even though finding that perfect gift can be hard, it’s also a beautiful reminder that what matters most is connecting with their world. Sometimes, it’s not about the newest trend, but about finding that one thing that truly resonates with their heart. Blaize might love something as simple as a washing machine for Christmas, but to him, it’s perfect – it’s his world, and I wouldn’t trade that for anything.

And what’s even more wonderful is that having someone who understands those unique interests – like a Buddy – can open up even more doors. A Buddy can help find ways to take those passions, like Blaize’s love for lawnmowers, and connect them to the real world in meaningful ways. Maybe he could explore how lawnmowers work hands-on, or even try out some light mechanical work. A Buddy can help him take that passion for machines and turn it into a learning experience, allowing him to grow in ways that feel exciting and relevant to his interests. It’s these kinds of connections that make a world of difference, showing Blaize that his unique interests are valued and can lead to great things.

Wrapping paper. Who would’ve thought something so simple could create such a big moment? One year, at a holiday party, I watched a child sit frozen in the middle of all the excitement. As a parent of a child with sensory needs, it was easy to see what was happening. The tearing of paper, the bright colors, the crinkling sounds, it was just too much.

It hit me how something so small, like wrapping a gift, could create such a barrier. The chaos of the moment made it impossible for that child to enjoy the excitement everyone else was feeling. It wasn’t the gift or the party itself, it was the overwhelming noise and sensory overload that got in the way.

That experience changed how I approach the holidays. I started thinking about softer, quieter options: fabric gift bags, muted tissue paper, or even skipping traditional wrapping altogether. These small changes can make such a difference, creating a space where everyone can feel included and enjoy the moment.

Being a parent of a child with sensory needs has taught me that inclusion is often in the details. It’s not about making things perfect; it’s about finding ways to make everyone feel like they belong. And sometimes, that starts with something as simple as the way we wrap a gift.

The holidays have a way of bringing magic and chaos all at once. It’s a time when the world is bursting with twinkling lights, laughter, and celebration—but it can also be overwhelming, especially for families like mine.

I was reminded of this last year when we went to a holiday gathering. It was beautiful, full of the joy you hope for during this season. But amid the busy crowd, the music, and the constant chatter, Blaize became overwhelmed. Before I could step in, he reacted the only way he knew how at that moment—by pulling someone’s hair. My heart sank. I knew it wasn’t out of malice, but out of sheer sensory overload.

It was a reminder for me that while I want so badly for him to be part of every celebration, I also have to meet him where he is. The noise, the lights, the crowd—it was just too much for him, and that’s okay. The holidays are a chance to celebrate, but they’re also a time to embrace patience and understanding, not just with Blaize but with myself.

This season, I’m leaning into that grace. I’m making adjustments, whether it’s leaving a gathering early, finding quiet moments amid the noise, or even skipping events that feel too overwhelming. The love and memories we create don’t have to fit anyone else’s version of the holidays. They’re uniquely ours, and that’s what makes them special.

For every family navigating the ups and downs of this season, know you’re not alone. The holidays are about connection and love, even if it looks a little different for each of us.

From our family to yours, we wish you peace, joy, and the strength to embrace this season with patience and grace. Let’s celebrate the moments that matter most—the ones where love shines through, even in the chaos.

Faith on the Spectrum Team

This is a safe space created out of love, understanding, and the desire to continue to drive change. As a mother of an autistic son, I have walked the path many of are traveling now. I know the moments of joy, the overwhelming questions, and the deep yearning for environments where our children can thrive without judgment. Faith on the Spectrum was created to address those needs, offering support not just for the children we cherish, but for the families who nurture them and the communities that surround us.

Parenting a child on the autism spectrum is a unique journey, filled with moments of both discovery and challenges. Across kitchen tables, in online forums, and during late-night phone calls, Families of individuals with autism and other non visible disabilities discuss several key topics. These include finding sensory-friendly environments, navigating social inclusion, balancing faith and community participation, and accessing tailored resources that meet their loved ones specific needs. These conversations often highlight the isolation many families feel when their children or loved one struggle to fit into traditional settings, whether it’s church services, community events, or even family gatherings.

At Faith on the Spectrum, we don’t just listen to these discussions, we act on them. Our nonprofit is dedicated to creating inclusive environments where children and adults with autism and other disabilities are embraced, supported, and empowered. Through our Buddy volunteer program, we provide one-on-one support tailored to each individual’s unique needs. We design sensory-friendly spaces filled with tools like weighted blankets, sensory swings, and autism-friendly lighting to help individuals feel safe and comfortable. And we train communities—churches, volunteers, and families—on how to be more understanding and accepting.

One of the most powerful solutions shared among parents is the concept of community, not just the kind defined by physical spaces but the emotional and spiritual support that only a united group can provide. Faith on the Spectrum strives to foster that sense of belonging. Our sensory inclusion rooms provide a haven during church services, while our transformed community centers offer a place for socialization, growth, and meaningful connection. These projects are inspired by countless conversations with mothers and fathers who know that small accommodations can lead to big breakthroughs.

Personally, I understand the importance of giving and receiving support. My son has been my greatest teacher, showing me the world through his unique lens. But I’ll admit, there are days when I need someone to lean on, just as I am here to be that someone for others. Faith on the Spectrum is as much about empowering families as it is about reminding parents like you and me that we’re not alone. Together, we can build bridges of inclusion, ensuring no child is left behind and no parent feels isolated in their journey.

This blog will be a place where we share stories, resources, and practical advice to make our mission a reality. Whether it’s tips on creating a sensory friendly home, updates on our latest projects, or heartfelt reflections from parents and Buddies, we hope you’ll find encouragement and inspiration here. Most importantly, we hope you’ll find a community that shares your values and understands your challenges.

Faith on the Spectrum isn’t just about inclusion; it’s about transformation. It’s about turning isolation into connection and challenges into opportunities. Together, let’s create a world where every child, regardless of their abilities, can participate fully in both faith and life.