That’s a tricky question. Autism — or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) — is an umbrella term that captures a range of developmental challenges. In other words, autism looks different in different people. All of that said, there are some hallmark characteristics. Knowing what they are can help parents spot autism in their children as soon…
If you’ve met one individual with autism, you’ve met one individual with autism. While there are specific diagnostic crtieria for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the expression of specific symptoms of autism can vary significantly from person to person. In some people diagnosed with autism, we can link the ASD to a genetic condition — but…
What most people see as a toy can be a lot more than that. In fact, if you’re the parent of a child with autism, LEGO blocks could be one of the more useful assets in your toolbox. That’s because these blocks give you a way to have fun with your child while also encouraging…
Children with autism like structure and predictability — two things that often fall by the wayside when you’re flying. With everything from travel delays to noisy airplane engines to contend with, you probably have a fair measure of concern if you have upcoming air travel plans with your child. Fortunately, you don’t have to invent…
Crafting can help your child with autism develop fine motor skills while simultaneously encouraging their self-expression and building self-confidence. In short, it’s a great way to support their growth toward their happiest, healthiest self. Plus, it can be fun for them and you. For kids with autism, sensory crafts can be particularly enjoyable. You want…
When looking for a preschool for your child with autism, you have a lot to consider. You want a place they’ll feel safe and comfortable. You want the teachers and staff to be excited about their work and ready to partner with you. And you want to make sure that your child is in a…
As soon as your child got their diagnosis — and potentially even before — you probably started modifying their environment. You made safety changes at home (like child-safety locks) and sensory adjustments, as well (like removing something overstimulating from their room). But don’t stop there. For a child with autism, the right environment makes all…
One of the core deficits with autism is social skills. Individuals generally possess a desire to interact with those around them — but often do not know how to begin. This can lead to confusion, frustration, and other emotions. Fortunately, this presents an opportunity. By understanding how autism affects social development and social skills, the…
When one of your children gets diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it can feel like your focus narrows. From that point on, a lot of your attention goes toward helping that child navigate the unique path in front of them. If you have other children, you may feel tension in trying to support both…
Sleep is critical for everyone. However, falling asleep and staying asleep can be particularly challenging for individuals with autism. Fortunately, there are some strategies that can help. To help you set your child up for sleep success, our team recommends these five steps. Prepare Their Room Since children with autism are more likely to have…
