Specific Parenting Techniques for Children and Teens with ASD Level 1

How Your Child with ASD Makes Sense of the World



A word about social skills training:

Social skills training is an evidence-based intervention that plays a critical role in the treatment of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who face challenges in social interactions. It is a structured and individualized approach that focuses on developing the social communication skills of people with ASD, including verbal and nonverbal communication, social cognition, and perspective-taking.

The training typically takes place in a group setting, where participants receive instruction and practice their skills with each other under the guidance of trained professionals. The training covers a range of topics, including initiating and maintaining conversations, understanding social norms, interpreting body language and facial expressions, and developing problem-solving skills.

Social skills training employs a variety of techniques, such as role-playing, modeling, and feedback, to teach social skills in a safe and supportive environment. The trainers also work with the individuals with ASD to identify their strengths and weaknesses, set goals, and monitor progress.

The ultimate goal of social skills training is to equip individuals with ASD with the skills they need to navigate social situations more effectively, develop meaningful relationships, and improve their overall quality of life. As such, it is an essential component of a comprehensive treatment plan for individuals with ASD.

 


Resources for parents of children and teens on the autism spectrum:
 
 

 
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Does your autistic child have a tendency to make a literal interpretation of what someone says?

Autistic children often have difficulty with understanding and interpreting figurative language or sarcasm. They tend to interpret words and phrases literally, which can create confusion and misunderstandings in communication. This can be especially challenging in social situations, where they may struggle to grasp the nuances of language that others take for granted.

To help overcome these challenges, it's important to use clear and concise language when communicating with an autistic child. Avoiding idioms, metaphors, and expressions that may be confusing or misleading is also essential. Instead, it's helpful to use concrete examples and visual aids to help them understand abstract concepts or ideas.

For example, if you want to explain the concept of "time flies," you could use a clock or timer to demonstrate how quickly time can pass. Similarly, if you want to explain the meaning of "a piece of cake," you could show them an actual piece of cake and explain how the phrase is used to describe something that is easy to do.

Meet Jack, a brilliant autistic child who tends to interpret things literally. When someone says, 'Break a leg,' Jack would actually think it means to break a leg! This literal interpretation can lead to misunderstandings and miscommunication. Let's learn how to communicate more effectively with people like Jack.

In order to communicate effectively with someone who interprets things literally, we need to prioritize clarity in our messages. It's important to be precise and specific in our wording, leaving no room for misinterpretation. By doing so, we can avoid confusion and ensure that our message is understood as intended.

One effective way to improve communication with individuals like Jack is to incorporate visuals and examples into our conversation. By providing visual aids or using relatable examples, we can help them better understand the meaning behind our words. This visual approach can bridge the gap between literal interpretation and intended communication.

Active listening plays a crucial role in effective communication. When conversing with someone who interprets things literally, it's essential to listen attentively and ask clarifying questions to ensure mutual understanding. By actively engaging in the conversation and seeking clarification, we can avoid potential misinterpretations and maintain clear communication.

Providing positive reinforcement is key when communicating with individuals who interpret things literally. By acknowledging their efforts and providing encouragement, we can create a supportive environment that promotes effective communication. Remember to focus on their progress and strengths, helping them gain confidence in their ability to interpret figurative language.

To ensure clear communication, it's important to minimize the use of figurative language. Choose straightforward and literal expressions to convey your message effectively. This approach will reduce the chances of misinterpretation and improve overall understanding.

Inclusive language fosters an environment where individuals with different communication styles can thrive. When speaking with those who interpret things literally, it's important to use inclusive language that accommodates their needs. By being mindful of our choice of words, we can create a more inclusive and understanding atmosphere for effective communication.

Establishing trust and rapport is essential. By building a positive relationship based on trust and understanding, we create a safe space for effective communication. Take the time to connect on a personal level and show genuine care to enhance the overall communication process.

 


Resources for parents of children and teens on the autism spectrum:
 
 

 
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My child has a tendency to be considered disrespectful and rude by others...

 RE: “My child (with ASD) has a tendency to be considered disrespectful and rude by others. What can do to help others understand his behavior?”

As a parent of a child with autism, I can imagine it must be challenging to hear that your child is being labeled as rude by others. It's important to understand that autism is a neurological condition that can make it difficult for your child to understand social cues and communicate effectively with others. This can often result in behavior that others may interpret as rude or inappropriate, even though it is unintentional.

Autism affects social interaction, communication, and behavior. It is a spectrum disorder, which means that individuals with autism can have a wide range of abilities and challenges. It is important to remember that autistic children have unique perspectives and experiences.

Autistic children may struggle with social cues and have difficulty expressing themselves. This can lead to behavior that may be perceived as disrespectful, but in reality, they may be struggling to communicate their needs effectively.

They may have difficulty with verbal and nonverbal cues, making it harder for them to express their thoughts and emotions. This can lead to frustration and behaviors that might seem disrespectful to others.

Another factor to consider is sensory sensitivities. Autistic children may have heightened sensitivities to certain sensory stimuli, such as loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures. When they feel overwhelmed or uncomfortable, they may exhibit behaviors that can be misinterpreted as disrespect. Understanding and accommodating their sensory needs can help with this issue.

One way to support autistic children is by using effective communication strategies. This includes using clear and concise language, giving them extra time to process information, and using visual aids or visual schedules to enhance understanding.

It's important to work closely with their teachers to develop a plan that provides your child with the support they need. This may include creating a structured environment that helps your child feel more comfortable, using social stories to assist with social interactions, and providing opportunities for interaction with peers in a safe and supportive setting.

In addition to working with your child's teachers, you may want to consider seeking out support groups or therapy to provide additional guidance and support for both you and your child. A trained therapist can help your child develop communication skills, social interaction skills, and coping mechanisms to better manage their emotions and behavior.

Educating others about autism is key to reducing misconceptions. By providing information and resources, we can help create a more supportive environment. Encourage open conversations and promote awareness among colleagues, friends, and family members. Together, we can challenge stereotypes and foster acceptance.

It's important to remember that your child is not intentionally trying to be rude, and that with the right tools and resources, they can learn to communicate effectively and develop positive relationships with others.

 

Resources for parents of children and teens on the autism spectrum:
 
 

 
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“My child takes a long time to process social information. Is this a trait of ASD?”

 RE: “My child takes a long time to process social information. Is this a trait of ASD?”

The short answer is ‘yes.’ Autistic children process social information differently than neurotypical children. They tend to rely more on their intelligence than intuition, which can result in difficulties in processing social cues and interactions. This can lead to misunderstandings and challenges in social situations.

One of the ways in which this manifests is in their struggles to understand nonverbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. Autistic children may also have difficulty detecting sarcasm or insincerity, which can lead to confusion or social faux pas.

Kids with autism may find it challenging to initiate, maintain, or understand conversations with others. They may also struggle to interpret nonverbal cues, express their emotions, or adapt to changes in routines or environments. Additionally, they may exhibit repetitive behaviors, intense interests, or sensory sensitivities that can further affect their social functioning.

Social skills deficits can have a significant impact on the lives of kids with autism, as they may face social isolation, bullying, or discrimination due to their differences. They may also experience anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem as a result of their struggles with social interactions.

To help them navigate social situations successfully, it is essential to provide them with the necessary accommodations and support. This can include using clear and concise language when communicating with them, providing visual aids or social stories to help them prepare for social interactions and understand what to expect.

It is also crucial to be patient and understanding when communicating with autistic children. They may require additional time to process information and respond, and it is important to provide them with the space and time they need to do so.

Evidence-based interventions such as social skills training, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and speech-language therapy can be effective in helping children with autism improve their social skills. These interventions aim to teach them how to communicate effectively, understand social norms and expectations, and navigate social situations. They also help them develop self-awareness, emotional regulation, and problem-solving skills, which can enhance their social functioning and overall well-being.

By providing the necessary accommodations and support, we can help empower autistic children to succeed in social situations and achieve their full potential. It is our responsibility to create an inclusive and understanding environment that supports the unique needs of autistic children, and by doing so, we can help them thrive.

 


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Why Sensory-Friendly Clothing is a Game-Changer for Autistic Children

autism in toddlers
Overview—

Children with autism may have differences in processing sensory information, such as touch, sight, smell, taste, hearing, and even the sense of balance. When it comes to sensory sensitivities, there are two main categories: hyper and hypo sensitivity. Hyper sensitivity refers to an increased sensitivity to certain sensory stimuli, while hypo sensitivity is a decreased sensitivity. Both can impact a child’s daily life and functioning.

One common sensory sensitivity in autism is sound sensitivity. Children with autism may have difficulty filtering or processing sounds, leading to an overwhelming experience. A seemingly normal sound to us, such as a door closing, can feel like a thunderous noise to someone with sensory sensitivities. Another sensory sensitivity is related to sight and light. Bright lights or specific patterns may cause discomfort or even physical pain for children with autism.

Children with autism may also experience sensitivity to touch. Certain textures or clothing materials may be incredibly uncomfortable for them. Being aware of this can help us choose appropriate materials and designs for clothing and sensory-friendly environments. Sensory sensitivities in autism can also affect the sense of taste and smell. Some children may be extremely sensitive to certain tastes or smells, leading to strong aversions or preferences. This can impact their dietary choices and preferences.

To better understand sensory sensitivities in autism, we need to explore the limbic system. This part of the brain plays a crucial role in regulating emotions and processing sensory information. Differences in the limbic system can contribute to sensory sensitivities experienced by children with autism.

Accommodations and strategies that can support children with sensory sensitivities include:

  • creating quiet spaces
  • using visual schedules
  • providing noise-canceling headphones
  • using sensory-friendly materials


Why Sensory-Friendly Clothing is a Game-Changer for Autistic Children—

Kids with autism often experience hypersensitivity to certain fabrics, tags, and other clothing elements. This can cause discomfort and sensory overload. Sensory-friendly clothing addresses these challenges by offering comfortable and accommodating alternatives.

Sensory-friendly clothing is a game-changer for autistic children and teens. It has the power to enhance their comfort, independence, and overall well-being. By embracing sensory-friendly clothing and designing with diversity in mind, we can create a more inclusive world where everyone's needs are recognized and accommodated.


Key features of sensory-friendly clothing:

Firstly, these clothes are made from soft and gentle fabrics that minimize discomfort. They also have seamless designs to prevent irritation from tags or seams. Additionally, sensory-friendly clothing often provides adjustable closures, such as Velcro or elastic, allowing children to personalize their fit. These features combine to create a comfortable and inclusive clothing experience.

Sensory-friendly clothing promotes independence for autistic kids. By wearing clothes that cater to their specific sensory needs, they can better regulate their emotions and focus on other aspects of their daily lives. This increased independence can lead to improved self-esteem and a sense of empowerment. Sensory-friendly clothing allows these young people to express themselves while feeling comfortable and supported.

Wearing sensory-friendly clothing can significantly improve daily functioning. With reduced sensory discomfort, autistic children can better engage in various activities, such as school, work, and social interactions. These specially designed clothes enable them to participate more fully in society and reach their full potential. By eliminating barriers caused by clothing discomfort, sensory-friendly clothing enhances their overall well-being.

One of the significant benefits of sensory-friendly clothing is its ability to enhance sensory regulation. Autistic kids often struggle with sensory processing, and uncomfortable clothing can exacerbate these challenges. Sensory-friendly clothing minimizes sensory triggers and supports children in better managing their sensory needs. This improved regulation can lead to reduced anxiety and an overall improved sensory experience.

Sensory-friendly clothing also provides an opportunity to educate others about autism. By raising awareness about the challenges faced by autistic kids, we can foster a more compassionate and understanding society. Sensory-friendly clothing serves as a visual cue, prompting conversations and creating spaces for dialogue. Through education, we can break down barriers and build a more inclusive world for everyone.

As awareness and understanding of autism continue to grow, so does the future of sensory-friendly clothing. With advancements in technology and design, we can expect even more innovative solutions to meet the sensory needs of autistic children. By collaborating and investing in research and development, we pave the way for a future where sensory-friendly clothing is the norm, promoting inclusion and empowerment.



Resources for parents of children and teens on the autism spectrum:
 
 

 
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Emergency Melt-Down Management: Tips for Parents of Kids on the Autism Spectrum

Managing meltdowns in children with autism can be a complex and challenging task that requires  careful planning and execution. 

The first step in managing meltdowns is identifying the triggers that can lead to them. These triggers can be diverse, such as sudden changes in routine, sensory overload, hunger, exhaustion, or frustration. 

Once you have identified the triggers, the next step is to try to avoid or minimize them as much as possible. For example, if the child is sensitive to certain noises, you can try using noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs to reduce the impact of loud sounds.

Creating a calm and safe environment for the child is also essential in managing meltdowns. You can set up a designated quiet space, which could be a room or a corner of the house, where the child can retreat to when they feel overwhelmed. 

This space should be a safe place where the child can relax and feel comfortable. You can also provide sensory tools such as fidget toys, weighted blankets, or chewing gum, which can help the child calm down and feel more secure.

Using visual aids such as picture schedules or social stories can also be helpful in reducing anxiety and helping the child understand expectations. Picture schedules can help the child know what to expect throughout the day, and social stories can help them prepare for new experiences or changes in routine.

It's important to remain calm and patient during a meltdown. You can try to speak in a soft and soothing voice, use simple language, and offer comfort without overwhelming the child. Once the meltdown has passed, it's important to offer reassurance and support to help the child feel safe and secure.

Social stories can be a highly effective tool for individuals on the autism spectrum who experience meltdowns. These stories are a specific type of narrative that can help individuals with autism to better understand and navigate social interactions.

When it comes to meltdowns, social stories can be particularly helpful. A social story can be used to explain what a meltdown is, what triggers a meltdown, and what strategies can be used to cope with a meltdown. For example, the story might describe a specific situation that frequently leads to a meltdown, such as a loud and crowded environment, and then provide coping strategies for dealing with that situation, such as taking a break in a quieter space.

Social stories are often written in a simple, clear, and concise style, and can include pictures or other visual aids to help individuals with autism better understand the concepts being discussed. They can be read and discussed with a trusted caregiver, teacher, or therapist, and can be a powerful way to help individuals with autism feel more in control of their emotions and behavior.

By using social stories, individuals with autism can gain a better understanding of their own behavior and develop effective coping mechanisms for dealing with difficult situations. This can lead to improved social interactions, increased self-confidence, and an overall better quality of life.

Example Social Story:

Once upon a time, there was a little boy named Jack. Jack was a sweet and loving child, but he had a hard time controlling his emotions when he got upset. Whenever something didn't go according to his plan, he would have a meltdown.

His parents were worried and tried everything they could think of to help him deal with his meltdowns. They talked to him calmly, gave him space, and tried to distract him with toys and games, but nothing seemed to work.

One day, Jack's parents decided to try a new approach. They created a social story about dealing with meltdowns. The story explained what a meltdown was, why it happened, and what Jack could do to calm down when he felt one coming on.

The social story was a simple and engaging story that illustrated the different steps Jack could take to manage his emotions. It was designed to be easy for him to understand and follow, with colorful illustrations and relatable characters.

They read the story to Jack every night before bed, and they talked to him about the different strategies he could use to stay calm when he felt upset. They also practiced these strategies with him during the day, such as taking deep breaths, counting to ten, or going to a quiet place to calm down.

Over time, Jack began to understand his emotions better. He learned to recognize when he was feeling upset and could feel a meltdown coming on. Instead of getting overwhelmed by his emotions, he would take a deep breath and use one of the strategies he had learned to calm himself down.

Jack's parents were proud of him for learning how to manage his emotions. They knew that meltdowns could be tough, but with the right tools and strategies, they didn't have to control his life.

From then on, Jack was better able to navigate his emotions and deal with meltdowns in a healthy way. His parents were grateful for the social story that had helped him learn these important skills and were happy to see their son grow into a more confident and emotionally intelligent person.

By using the strategies above, you can help manage meltdowns in children with autism and create a more peaceful and supportive environment for them to thrive in.

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Celebrating the Uniqueness of Children on the Autism Spectrum

Autistic children have a unique way of processing information and interacting with the world around them. They may find it challenging to develop social skills and communicate effectively, but they often possess unique strengths and talents that deserve recognition and support.

To celebrate the uniqueness of autistic children, we should focus on their strengths and interests. Many autistic children have a heightened affinity for specific topics or activities, such as music, art, or science. By encouraging and supporting their interests, parents and caregivers can help them build confidence and develop their skills.

Here are just a few of the positive aspects of autism:

1. Attention to detail: Kids with autism often have a unique ability to notice small details that others may miss. This can be an asset in fields such as science, technology, and engineering.

2. Strong memory: Many children with autism have an exceptional memory for facts and figures. This can be helpful in academic and professional settings.

3. Unique perspective: Because children with autism process information differently, they often have a unique perspective on the world. This can lead to creative thinking and problem-solving.

4. Honesty: Kids with autism are often known for their honesty and straightforwardness. This can be refreshing in a world where many children are not always truthful.

5. Passion for interests: Many children with autism have a strong passion for specific interests or hobbies. This can lead to a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Above-average Intelligence—

Several studies have suggested that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often exhibit above-average intelligence compared to their neurotypical peers. This phenomenon, known as the "autistic advantage," may be attributed to the unique cognitive profile of individuals with autism, which is characterized by exceptional memory, attention to detail, and visual-spatial skills.

Kids with ASD are Visual Learners—

Extensive research in the field of autism has revealed that children with this disorder are primarily visual learners. They tend to process and retain information best through the use of visual aids, such as pictures, videos, and graphs. 

The reason for this learning style is rooted in the fact that children with autism often have communication difficulties, which can make it challenging for them to understand verbal or written instructions. Visual aids provide a concrete and more accessible way for these children to comprehend information, as they can see it in front of them, rather than having to rely solely on language.

In addition to visual aids, there are other strategies that teachers, parents, and caregivers can use to support the learning needs of children with autism. These include incorporating hands-on activities, breaking down tasks into smaller steps, and providing clear and concise directions. By utilizing these strategies, children with autism can develop a more profound understanding of the material, improve their communication skills, and boost their self-confidence.

It is crucial for parents, teachers, and caregivers to recognize and understand the unique learning style of children with autism. By doing so, they can create a supportive and inclusive learning environment that fosters growth and development.

Celebrating the uniqueness of autistic children is essential to creating a more inclusive, empathetic, and compassionate society. By focusing on their strengths and interests, embracing their differences, and recognizing their individuality, we can help them thrive and contribute to society in their own exceptional way, and we can create a more diverse and inclusive world for all.

 

 

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The Nuanced Approach to Discipline for Special Needs Children on the Autism Spectrum

As a parent of a child on the spectrum, it's important to consider your approach to discipline and understand the impact it can have on your child's behavior and development. Positive reinforcement is a parenting strategy that involves rewarding good behavior with praise, encouragement, or other forms of positive reinforcement, rather than punishing bad behavior. This method has been found to be more effective than punishment in shaping children's behavior in the long term and can help build a strong, positive relationship between parent and child.

Positive reinforcement works by acknowledging and reinforcing desirable behaviors. When your child exhibits positive behavior, such as completing a task without being asked or showing kindness to others, you can reward them with verbal praise, a special treat, or other forms of positive reinforcement. This positive feedback reinforces the behavior and makes it more likely that your child will continue to exhibit it in the future.

In contrast, punishment can have negative effects on your child's behavior and emotional well-being. Scolding, yelling, or other forms of punishment can make your child feel ashamed, fearful, or resentful, which can damage your relationship with them. Additionally, punishment may only stop the behavior in the short term, rather than creating lasting change.

Positive reinforcement can help build a strong, positive relationship between you and your child. By using this approach, you can show your child that you value and appreciate their efforts and accomplishments. This helps to boost their confidence and self-esteem, which can lead to improved behavior and a happier, healthier child.

The Surprising Benefits of Empathetic Discipline—

Empathetic discipline is an approach to parenting that goes beyond simply enforcing rules and boundaries. This approach emphasizes understanding and compassion, and can have a profound impact on both parents and children.

One of the key benefits of empathetic discipline is that children are more likely to internalize the values and rules they are taught when they feel heard and understood. When parents take the time to listen to their children and truly understand their perspective, children are more likely to see rules and boundaries as reasonable and fair. This can help to reduce power struggles and create a more harmonious family environment.

Another benefit of empathetic discipline is that it can help to strengthen the parent-child relationship. When parents use empathy as a tool for discipline, they demonstrate that they care about their child's feelings and well-being. This can help to create a sense of trust and safety, which is essential for healthy parent-child relationships.

But the benefits of empathetic discipline don't stop there. This approach can also help children develop important social-emotional skills such as empathy, problem-solving, and self-regulation. When parents model empathy and use it to guide their child's behavior, children learn to understand and manage their own emotions and those of others. This can help them to become more resilient and better equipped to navigate the complex social world.

How to Discipline Your Children Without Using Punishment—

Disciplining children without resorting to punishment can be a challenging task for many parents. However, there are several effective ways to discipline children without using punishment. Here are some tips that can help:

1. Set clear boundaries and rules: Children need to know what is expected of them and what behavior is not acceptable. Setting clear boundaries and rules will help them understand what they should and should not do.

2. Use positive reinforcement: Praise and reward your child when they display good behavior. This can be as simple as telling them that they did a good job or giving them a sticker or a small treat.

3. Use logical consequences: Logical consequences are a natural result of a child's behavior. For example, if your child forgets their lunch, they will be hungry at school. This can be a powerful lesson in responsibility.

4. Use natural consequences: Similarly, natural consequences are the result of a child's actions. For example, if your child refuses to wear a hat in the cold weather, they will feel cold.

5. Use timeouts: Timeouts can be an effective way of disciplining children. However, it is important to use them correctly. Use timeouts for a few minutes and make sure that your child understands why they are being given a timeout.

Remember, the goal of discipline is to teach children how to behave appropriately and to help them develop self-control and responsibility. Punishment may provide a quick fix, but it does not teach children how to behave in the long term.

Understanding the Psychological Effects of Punishment—

Punishment is a widely used method to deter people from engaging in negative behavior. However, it is often debated whether punishment is an effective form of discipline or if it can have negative psychological effects. Research has shown that punishment can lead to feelings of aggression, resentment, and low self-esteem in those who are punished. It can also create a fear of authority figures and a tendency to avoid or lie about negative behavior, rather than learn from it.

Furthermore, punishment can often focus on the negative behavior rather than addressing the root causes of the behavior, leading to a lack of understanding and empathy for those who are being punished. It is important to consider alternative forms of discipline that focus on positive reinforcement and teaching children how to make better choices rather than solely punishing them for negative behavior.

Compassionate and Nuanced Approach to Discipline—

Disciplining special needs children is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires careful consideration and planning. These children may have different ways of communicating and understanding consequences, so it's essential to develop a tailored approach that takes their unique needs and abilities into account.

To begin with, it's crucial to work closely with parents, educators, and therapists to develop a comprehensive and consistent discipline plan. This plan should be grounded in positive reinforcement, clear expectations, and a structured routine. 

Positive reinforcement can include rewards and praise for good behavior, while clear expectations can be set through visual aids, social stories, and other tools that help children understand what is expected of them. A structured routine, including a consistent schedule, can help children feel more secure and reduce anxiety, which can contribute to better behavior.

It's also important to keep in mind that special needs children may struggle with emotional regulation and impulse control. This can be particularly challenging when it comes to negative behaviors, such as hitting or biting. In these cases, it may be helpful to use a calm and non-punitive approach that focuses on redirecting the child's behavior rather than punishing them.

Overall, disciplining special needs children requires a compassionate and nuanced approach that takes into account their unique needs and challenges. By working closely with parents, educators, and therapists and using positive reinforcement, clear expectations, and a structured routine, we can help these children thrive and develop to their full potential.

 

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Resources for parents of children and teens on the autism spectrum:


Resources for parents of children and teens on the autism spectrum:
 
 

 
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