Supporting a Grandchild with Autism
Are you the grandparent of a grandchild diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)? Grandparents can play an important role in the life of their grandchild and develop a close bond that is beneficial and rewarding for both the child and the adult. Grandparents can...
Early Diagnosis Means Better Outcomes
Although autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be diagnosed at any age, it is described as a “developmental disorder” because symptoms generally appear in the first 24 months of life. ASD can usually be reliably diagnosed by the time children are two years old. It’s...
It’s Back to School Time! How to Make the Transition Easier for Children with ASD
The first day of school can be stressful for kids of any age, whether they’re just starting kindergarten or heading off to college. For children with autism, adjusting to a new classroom, teachers, and schedule can be especially challenging. However, with planning and...
Nutrition and ASD
Many children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have food aversions and sensitivities to certain food colors, textures, flavors, or smells that make mealtimes challenging. Parents many worry their child isn’t getting enough nutritious foods, especially if the child...
5 Calming Techniques for Children with ASD
Many children with ASD may act out when they’re stressed, fearful, frustrated, or anxious. Because children with ASD often have difficulty expressing and communicating their feelings in socially acceptable ways, their distress may take the form of an emotional...
Equine Therapy for Youth with Autism
Bonding with animals such as horses can promote emotional healing and improve behavior in children and teens with ASD. Feeding, grooming, and riding can help youth gain confidence, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve self-control. Besides being fun, it can be very...
Music Therapy & ASD
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often have difficulties with social interaction and communication. Music therapy uses musical experiences and the relationships that develop through them to enable individuals to feel calmer, identify and express their...
Young Adults and ASD: Challenges to Consider
For most young people, the passage to early adulthood presents new responsibilities, greater levels of independence, and shifts in social and family relationships. This time of life can be especially challenging for young adults with ASD, who may experience changes in...
Understanding ABA Techniques
An evidence-based behavioral treatment for individuals with autism spectrum disorder is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). ABA encourages desired behaviors and discourages undesired behaviors to improve a range of skills. ABA is used in many schools and treatment...
How to be Your Child’s Advocate
If your child has autism spectrum disorder (ASD), chances are your most heartfelt desire is to be the best advocate you can to ensure your child gets the right care and services. As parents, we want to feel that we stand up for our children and prepare them for the...