Andria Pitterson-Powell Of Jasen Autism Sensory Environment (JASE): How Our Family Navigates Life With A Child With Autism Spectrum Disorder
An Interview With Dr. Kate Lund
Understanding autism spectrum disorder and its impact on your child is crucial. Learn about the condition, its range of symptoms, and effective interventions. Share this knowledge with family, friends, and educators to build a supportive network that understands and respects your child’s needs.
Families with children on the Autism Spectrum face unique challenges and experiences. Each family’s journey is different, filled with both struggles and triumphs. We want to share their stories, insights, and advice to help and inspire other families going through similar experiences. As part of this interview series, we had the pleasure to interview Andria Pitterson-Powell.
Andria Pitterson-Powell is an Accountant, Controller, Educator, Advocate for Special Needs
Communities, and the founder of Dynamic Outcomes for Exceptional Students (DOES), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of families with exceptional students and Jasen Autism Sensory Environment (JASE), a sensory center dedicated to creating indoor play environments for children with autism.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Before we start, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your background and your childhood backstory?
Thank you for having me! I’d love to share a bit about my background. I was born and raised in Jamaica, the first of four children in a family deeply rooted in education. My father was a school principal, and my mother was a high school teacher, so the value of learning and community service was instilled in me from a young age. I have a younger brother who is five years my junior and two sisters — one ten years younger and the other fourteen years younger. Because I was so much older than my siblings, my cousins played a huge role in my life growing up, particularly Karen, who is just a year younger than me. We were more like sisters.
When I was in elementary school, my cousins and I would walk to school together. During lunch, we’d head to our grandparents’ home to enjoy a home-cooked meal. Even though our lunch break was just an hour, it always felt longer because we had time to walk there, eat, and squeeze in games like dodgeball, jacks, and dandy shandy before the bell rang, signaling our return to class. Those were truly fun days!
My childhood was filled with memories of family gatherings, especially weekends when my mom would tutor children at our home for free. I was always inspired by her patience and dedication to her students. Sundays were spent visiting our grandparents, where the extended family would gather. While the adults socialized, we kids would play outside, creating some of the fondest memories of my early years.
These experiences greatly influenced my life journey, leading me to pursue a career in education, technology, and community service. I’ve worked as a teacher, computer programmer, and accountant controller in my diverse career. I’m involved in community work through various organizations, such as Dynamic Outcomes for Exceptional Students (DOES), a nonprofit I founded in 2020.
My passion for helping children with special needs is a significant part of my journey. I’ve channeled that passion into opening Jasen Autism Sensory Environment (JASE), where we
create safe, supportive spaces for children with autism to learn and grow. JASE is an inclusive indoor environment where children with autism can learn, play, and thrive. This initiative is incredibly personal to me, as my son Jasen has autism, and I’ve seen firsthand the challenges faced by families with exceptional students. I’ve made it my mission to impact their lives positively. So, it’s all about giving back and ensuring every child has a chance to thrive.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to your in your life?
One of my guiding life lesson quotes is Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” I’ve always believed that nothing is impossible and that I can rise to any challenge or learn anything I set my mind to. This mindset has pushed me to take on new challenges and teach myself new skills continuously.
As I’ve grown older and reflected on my life, I’ve realized that my purpose goes beyond personal achievements — it’s about making a difference in the lives of others. Life is bigger than just our individual experiences, and I’ve become deeply committed to giving back and making an impact in my community.
This realization brings me to another quote from Mahatma Gandhi I’ve included in my email signature: “We but mirror the world… We need not wait to see what others do.” I try to live by this philosophy daily, striving to be an example of kindness, advocacy, and positive change. I hope that embodying these values will inspire others to do the same.
Let’s now shift to the main part of our discussion. Can you share with us the moment you realized your child might have autism spectrum disorder?
I first began to suspect that Jaen might have autism when I noticed he wasn’t meeting certain developmental milestones by 11 months, and he wasn’t making eye contact. My aunt, a social worker, noticed these signs and suggested I seek an evaluation. I initially called Easter Seals in Palm Beach but couldn’t get an appointment until March.
As Jasen’s first birthday approached in January, I took him to his pediatrician for a routine checkup. Despite my concerns, the pediatrician reassured me that he would be fine and it was nothing to worry about. When we finally went to Easter Seals in March, Jasen was evaluated and found to be developmentally delayed.
This diagnosis led me through a difficult emotional journey, including anger and denial. I sought a second opinion from Jasen’s pediatrician, who still maintained that there was no cause for concern. However, by the time Jasen was 16 months old and had stopped speaking, I had moved into the acceptance phase and began seeking therapy for him.
This experience deeply influenced my approach to creating supportive environments for children with autism. It underscored the importance of having dedicated spaces where children can receive the specialized care and support they need, which is why I’m so committed to the sensory center at JASE.
What unique approaches have you developed to support your child’s communication and social interaction skills within your family and community?
Supporting Jasen’s communication and social interaction skills has been a multifaceted effort involving unique approaches and tailored strategies. I actively involve our family in supporting Jasen’s communication and social interactions. This includes educating family members about his needs, encouraging them to use supportive communication strategies, and involving Jasen in family activities where he can practice social skills in a familiar setting.
I ensure that environments where Jasen practices social interactions are sensory-friendly to reduce distractions and potential stressors. This helps him to focus better and engage more effectively with others. I incorporate therapeutic activities into our daily routine designed to improve communication and social skills. These might include interactive play, role-playing games, and activities encouraging turn-taking and sharing. I also seek out inclusive community programs and events catering to children with autism. These opportunities allow Jasen to interact with others in diverse settings, helping him build confidence and social skills outside the home.
How do you navigate the challenges of creating an inclusive environment at home that accommodates the diverse needs of each family member?
Creating an inclusive environment at home, especially when accommodating diverse needs, involves a blend of flexibility, understanding, and proactive planning. I approach it by understanding the individual needs of each family member, including their sensory sensitivities, communication preferences, and personal interests.
For Jasen, this means creating spaces where he can retreat when feeling overwhelmed and ensuring that these areas are designed to be calming and sensory-friendly. Since the needs of family members can change over time, I remain flexible and open to adjusting the environment as needed.
My older son is 11 years older than Jasen; when Jasen was three and he was 14, his needs were different from his needs at 16. So, I must be mindful of that. This might involve changing the layout of rooms, incorporating new sensory tools, or altering routines to better suit everyone’s needs. Open communication is also very important. I regularly check in with each family member to see how they’re feeling and whether any adjustments can be made to improve their comfort or make things more functional at home.
Having a sibling with autism can put added pressure on neurotypical siblings, as they not only have to manage their own interactions with their neurodivergent sibling but also navigate society’s reactions. It’s tough for them to explain their sibling’s behavior to others or even protect them from judgment, and that can be a challenging position to be in.
Inclusion and Respect are also important aspects. I prioritize creating an environment where everyone feels valued and understood. This involves not just physical adjustments but also fostering a supportive and respectful atmosphere that acknowledges and accommodates each person’s needs. I continually learn about best practices and new approaches for supporting individuals with sensory sensitivities and developmental needs. This helps me stay informed and implement effective strategies in our home.
By focusing on these aspects, I aim to create a home environment that supports and respects the diverse needs of every family member, ensuring that everyone can thrive and feel comfortable.
Can you describe a moment when you saw significant progress in your child’s development, and what strategies or interventions led to that breakthrough?
One of Jasen’s most significant moments of progress was when he independently used the toilet for the first time. He was in diapers or pull-ups until the age of five. A few days after seeing a naturopathic doctor, I was working in my home office when I suddenly heard the toilet flush. Knowing my husband was in the kitchen and my other son wasn’t home, I went to investigate. There was Jasen, calmly washing his hands after using the bathroom on his own. When I asked my husband if he had prompted Jasen, he said no.
That was a pivotal moment — Jasen never wore diapers again after that day. This breakthrough felt monumental because we had been working with various strategies and therapies to support his development, including speech and occupational therapy. Adding naturopathic care seemed to help bring everything together. It was a powerful reminder that sometimes progress can come in unexpected ways and moments, and consistency in care truly makes a difference.
How do you prepare your child for changes in routine or new experiences, and what has been most effective in reducing anxiety during these transitions?
When preparing Jasen for changes, I explain the change using these three key points:
1. What the change is — For example if we must change our schedule, I’ll tell him that instead of having our regular dinner at home this Sunday, just the four of us will go to your grandparents’ for dinner.
2. Why we need to change — I will start by clearly explaining why the change is happening in simple and straightforward terms. “We need to change our routine because your aunt and cousin are in town, and we will have dinner with everyone”.
3. How the change will happen — I describe how the change will take place, breaking it down into manageable steps. We will leave our house at 2 p.m. and arrive at Grandma’s at 2:30 p.m. Your two aunts and uncles will be there with their kids. Grandma will make this, and I will make the mac and cheese. We will have dinner with the family, leave at 6 p.m., and finally, return home by 7 p.m.
I reassure Jasen that the change is a positive step and that we’ll be there to support him — for example, I’m the one making the mac and cheese. Grandma has your brand of orange juice. I emphasize that feeling unsure or nervous is okay but that he’ll be ok. I encourage Jasen to ask questions about the change and answer them as clearly and calmly as possible. This helps him feel more in control and less anxious about the unknown. By explaining the reasons for the change and how it will happen, Jasen can better understand and adjust to the new situation, which helps reduce his anxiety and build confidence.
What resources or support systems have been most valuable for your family in managing the daily realities of living with autism spectrum disorder?
For our family, several resources and support systems have been invaluable in managing the daily realities of living with autism spectrum disorder. The support from family and friends has been crucial. Their understanding, patience, and willingness to adapt to Jasen’s needs have helped create a more inclusive and supportive home environment.
Professional support from occupational, speech, and behavioral therapists has been crucial. They provide tailored strategies and interventions to help Jasen with communication, social skills, and daily living skills.
Joining local and online support groups for parents of children with autism has been incredibly helpful. These groups provide a sense of community, a space to share experiences, and access to advice and emotional support from people who genuinely understand. The school has also served as a key support system for us. Jasen’s teachers, special education staff, and the overall school community have been instrumental in his development.
Through their collaborative approach, they provide personalized attention to his needs, ensuring he gets the right accommodations and learning strategies. The close relationship we’ve built with the staff has fostered a sense of trust and partnership, making school a positive environment for Jasen’s growth.
Work has also become a valuable support group for us. My colleagues and supervisors have shown great understanding and flexibility, especially when I need to adjust my schedule to accommodate Jasen’s needs. Their support allows me to balance both my personal and professional life, reducing some of the stress that comes with managing the daily challenges of living with autism.
The understanding and encouragement I receive at work makes it easier to manage the challenges at home, and knowing I have support from both my professional and personal circles has been invaluable in navigating life with autism.
What are your “Top 5 Strategies to Navigate Life With a Child With Autism Spectrum Disorder”?
Navigating life with a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be both challenging and rewarding. Based on my experiences and insights, here are my top five strategies:
1 . Educate Yourself and Others:
Understanding autism spectrum disorder and its impact on your child is crucial. Learn about the condition, its range of symptoms, and effective interventions. Share this knowledge with family, friends, and educators to build a supportive network that understands and respects your child’s needs.
2 . Focus on Strengths and Interests:
Identify and nurture your child’s strengths and interests. These can be powerful tools for learning and social interaction. Incorporating their interests into therapy and daily activities can boost engagement, motivation, and skill development.
3 . Ensure that your child receives the appropriate educational support for their development and success.
Be Informed About Your Child’s Rights: Understand your child’s rights under federal and state laws, such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This knowledge will enable you to advocate effectively for the services and accommodations your child needs.
Initiate the Evaluation Process: If you suspect your child may have autism and that it affects their learning, request a formal evaluation from the school. Contact the school’s special education department to begin the process. Early evaluation can lead to early intervention, which is crucial for providing effective support.
Develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP): If your child qualifies for special education services, work with the school to create an IEP. This document will outline specific goals, accommodations, and support services tailored to your child’s unique needs, ensuring they receive appropriate educational support.
Explore 504 Plans If Needed: If your child does not qualify for an IEP but still requires support, consider a 504 Plan. This plan provides accommodations and modifications to help your child succeed in the general education environment.
Build a Collaborative Relationship with the School: Establish strong communication and a collaborative working relationship with your child’s teachers and school staff. Know how to reach them by phone or email and maintain regular contact to stay informed about your child’s progress and any issues that may arise.
4 . Integrate planning into aspects of your life.
This can create a more organized and supportive environment for your child and family.
Routine and Structure: Plan daily routines that provide consistency and predictability.
Structured routines can help your child feel more secure and reduce anxiety.
Create visual schedules and prepare for transitions to make daily activities more manageable.
Emergency Preparedness: Prepare for potential challenges or crises by having a plan in place. This might include having a list of emergency contacts, knowing how to handle sensory overload situations, and being prepared for medical or behavioral emergencies.
Traveling: Planning flight times around Jasen’s sleep schedule makes traveling much smoother and more comfortable for him. It’s all about finding ways to minimize disruptions and help him adjust to the travel experience better. So, we will take the first flight in the morning or late evening.
5 . Build a Support Network:
Connect with other families, support groups, and professionals who understand the challenges of raising a child with autism. Having a network of support can provide practical advice, emotional support, and a sense of community. It’s also valuable to seek out professionals, such as therapists and educators, who can offer specialized guidance and resources. At JASE, we have a spin on mommy and me where we provide parent training and, in the process, build friendships and a support group.
What role does self-care play for you as a parent in maintaining balance and resilience while supporting your child with Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Self-care is essential for me in maintaining balance while supporting Jasen. I make time to watch movies, go out with friends, and stay socially connected, which helps me recharge emotionally. I also join groups where I can connect with other parents or individuals going through similar experiences, allowing me to share, learn, and feel supported.
Exercise is another key aspect — whether it’s a walk or a workout, it helps me release stress and clear my mind. These activities give me a break and boost my energy and resilience so I can continue to be there for my family.
Despite the challenges, families often find moments of triumph and resilience. Can you share a particularly proud moment or a breakthrough that your family has experienced in this journey?
Another deeply proud moment was the first time Jasen looked at me as if he was truly seeing me for the first time. It was such a profound and emotional experience, something I had been longing for. That eye contact, though it might seem small to others, was a major breakthrough for us. In that moment, I felt an undeniable connection, and it gave me hope that all our efforts were making a difference. It reminded me that progress, no matter how gradual, is possible and can come in unexpected and beautiful ways.
Are there any books, podcasts, or other resources that have helped you understand or manage your condition better?
Yes, there are a few resources that have been incredibly helpful on this journey. Watching movies or TV shows that feature autistic characters can be a meaningful way to gain perspective and understanding.
The movie The Accountant features a math genius with autism who works as a forensic accountant for criminal organizations. It offers a depiction of a high-functioning individual on the autism spectrum.
The Good Doctor highlights the strengths and struggles of individuals on the spectrum, contributing to greater awareness and empathy. It offers a range of perspectives and experiences, contributing to a broader understanding of autism and its diverse manifestations.
Additionally, online forums and parent support groups, like those on Facebook, have been valuable spaces for sharing experiences, finding resources, and connecting with other families going through similar challenges. These communities provide a sense of belonging and offer new strategies that help me navigate life with Jasen more effectively.
We are very blessed that some very prominent names in Business, VC funding, Sports, and Entertainment read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch, and why? He or she might just see this if we tag them. 🙂
That’s an exciting opportunity! In fact, there are two people I’d love to have a private breakfast or lunch with. The first being Holly Robinson Peete. Her work with autism advocacy and her personal journey have been incredibly inspiring to me. Watching her reality show with AJ and seeing her dedication to creating supportive environments for children with autism gave me hope and directly influenced the naming of my sensory center, JASE, after my son.
Having the opportunity to talk with her about her experiences and insights would be incredibly valuable, not just for personal inspiration but also for gaining ideas on how to further improve and expand our efforts in supporting children with autism. Her perspective could offer profound insights into advocacy and creating impactful support systems.
The next being, Oprah Winfrey. Her impact on media, philanthropy, and personal development is profound, and her ability to inspire and effect change resonates deeply with me.
Her dedication to addressing social issues and supporting educational initiatives aligns with my own passion for making a difference in people’s lives. Having a conversation with her could provide invaluable insights and inspiration for continuing my work with JASE and other endeavors. Plus, her personal story of overcoming challenges and her commitment to empowering others are genuinely motivating.
How can our readers further follow your work online?
Readers can also follow my work and stay updated on my projects and initiatives in several ways:
Website: Visit the official website for Jasen Autism Sensory Environment (JASE) at
to learn more about our sensory center, upcoming events, and donation opportunities, or to read our blog that features articles, personal stories and insights related to autism and sensory environments.
They can follow me on social media: Instagram @jasensensorycenter, Facebook @jansensensorycenter or join my private Facebook Group.
Feel free to reach out or connect through these channels to stay informed and engaged with our mission and activities.
Thank you for your time and thoughtful answers. I know many people will gain so much from hearing this.
About the Interviewer: Dr. Kate Lund is a licensed clinical psychologist, podcast host, best-selling author and Tedx Speaker. The power of resilience in extraordinary circumstances kept her thriving as a child. Dr. Lund now helps entrepreneurs, executives, parents, and athletes to see the possibility on the other side of struggle and move towards potential. Her goal is to help each person she works with to overcome their unique challenges and thrive within their own unique context.
Andria Pitterson-Powell Of Jasen Autism Sensory Environment (JASE): How Our Family Navigates Life… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.