Stepping Stones Behavioral Health Services

10/11/2026

CURIOUS CONVERSATIONS: The Screen-Dopamine Cycle

Following our earlier post exploring why switching off screens can feel so difficult for children, this Curious Conversations version is designed to help you take that understanding one step further.

Helping children understand what is happening in their own brains.

Rather than simply telling a child that they have had enough screen time, we can help them explore WHY stopping can feel difficult, why other activities might seem less appealing afterwards, and how finding a healthy balance can help.

This child-friendly visual provides a starting point for conversations with your young person, using accessible language to explore dopamine, rewards and the importance of giving our brains a variety of experiences.

It is not about making children feel guilty for enjoying screens. It is about building awareness, understanding and the skills to manage transitions.

Because when children understand the WHY, they are better equipped to work on the HOW.

Save this resource and use it to start a conversation when your child is calm and receptive, rather than in the middle of a difficult transition.

Helping Children Be Understood.

10/11/2026

When a child is told they are autistic, I think one of the most important things we can give them is an understanding of what that actually means.

Not a list of deficits.

Not a list of things they’re supposed to struggle with.

And definitely not the idea that there is something wrong with them.

I want autistic children to become curious about their own brains.

What gives me energy?

What uses my energy?

What helps when everything feels too much?

How do I learn best?

What do I need more time for?

What am I really interested in?

What do I wish other people understood about me?

Because two autistic children can have completely different answers.

Understanding your autism isn’t about learning a list of autistic traits.

It’s about understanding yourself.

Mandy Cook
The Autistic Teacher.

10/11/2026

Planning a trip to the South Carolina State Fair? Save the date for Sensory Friendly Morning.

On Thursday, October 22, from 10 a.m. to noon, the South Carolina State Fair will offer a quieter, lower-sensory experience during Exceptional Citizens Day.

During Sensory Friendly Morning:
- Select kiddie rides will operate without music or flashing lights
- Buildings will be quieter
- The Petting Zoo and food vendors will be open
- ASL interpretation will be available through Guest Services
- Guests are welcome to bring noise-canceling headphones and other comfort items

Guests with autism and other sensory processing disabilities may enter beginning at 10 a.m., one hour before the fair officially opens to the public.

Some fairgrounds sounds and activity may still be heard, and the fair will return to its regular sound level at noon.

➡️ Learn more and plan your visit:
https://www.scstatefair.org/sensoryfriendly/

Check out their South Carolina State Fair Social Story:
https://www.scstatefair.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/SCSF_storyboard.pdf

Please share with anyone who may benefit from a calmer fair experience.

10/11/2026

See you later!

10/11/2026

Why Chores Help Build Executive Functioning Skills
1. Planning & Organization
🧺 Figuring out what needs to be done, in what order, and gathering materials builds planning and organization skills.

Example: Cleaning a bathroom requires knowing the steps and having the right supplies.

2. Task Initiation
🛎️ Starting a chore, especially one that isn’t exciting, trains the brain to overcome procrastination and get moving.

Example: Beginning to fold laundry instead of putting it off.

3. Working Memory
🧠 Chores often involve remembering multi-step directions, routines, or sequences of actions.

Example: “Unload the dishwasher, then wipe the counters, then sweep.”

4. Time Management
⏰ Chores help kids estimate how long something will take and manage their time to get it done.

Example: Learning that folding clothes takes 15 minutes and needs to be fit into the day.

5. Attention & Focus
🎯 Staying with a task until it’s finished, especially when it’s boring, trains sustained attention.

Example: Dusting an entire room without getting distracted by every object.

6. Impulse Control
🚫 Chores teach kids to pause the urge to quit or rush through, and instead complete tasks properly.

7. Self-Monitoring & Responsibility
📋 Did I do it well? Did I miss a spot? Chores help kids check their work, take pride, and build independence.

Here is a printable chore list to help with keeping on task, planning, prioritization, working memory, and attention: https://www.theottoolbox.com/free-chores-checklist-for-kids/

10/11/2026

Meet us at the Rocket for Fair Fun! 🚀

People with disabilities are invited to join the Able SC Empower Hour team on Thursday, October 22, from 10 am to 2 pm, for Exceptional Citizens Day at the SC State Fair!

Date: Thursday, Oct. 22, from 10 am to 2 pm

Sensory-Friendly Morning: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Admission: FREE for individuals with disabilities + 1 FREE companion. Rides cost extra.

Meeting Spot: By the Rocket in front of the Welcome Center

Come hang out, connect with friends, and enjoy the fair together!



[Graphic with photo of fair rides in front of a clear sky and text, 'Empower Hour at the State Fair! October 22 from 10 am to 2 pm, Empower Hour will meet at the SC State Fair. Admission is FREE for people with disabilities + one companion. Meet us by the Rocket! Questions? [email protected]
803-779-5121.' ]

10/11/2026

Make sure you mark your calendar for this very important meeting when we will be highlighting the resource, PROJECT LIFESAVER! 🗓️ If you have or know an individual who is communicationally-challenged, be sure to attend this meeting!

10/11/2026