Making Doctor Visits Easier for Kids with Autism
Medical appointments, even routine visits, can be stressful for children and adults, and especially challenging for autistic kids. Since visits to the doctor are something we all do at one time or another, here are some tips to make the experience easier for your...
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...
The Growing Demand for BCBAs
A report issued in 2021 by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board shows that the demand for behavior analysts with board certification has increased nearly 6,000 percent over the past twelve years. Demand for behavior analyst assistants who hold certification has...
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...
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...
What Does it Take to Become a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT®)?
A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT®) is a credentialed paraprofessional who implements ABA treatment plans developed by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). RBTs practice under the guidance and supervision of a BCBA or Board Certified Assistant Behavior...
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...