Sensory seeking is part of childhood development. That’s why kids tend to put just about anything in their mouths. For kiddos with autism, this can take on a unique, sometimes extreme form. If you’re worried about your child chewing on their hair or clothes or biting their fingers or fingernails, there may be an underlying…
History, culture, nature, art — Chicago is home to some of the best museums in the world. These venues are often packed with locals and visitors alike, clamoring to see the exhibits and roam the collections. When you have a child with autism, you may hear words like crowded, bright, or loud and think that…
Purposeful play can be a powerful tool for growth, especially in little ones with autism. Finding the right toys can help your kiddo feel calmer, unlock new skills, and focus better, all while having fun. Sensory toys are excellent tools for supporting your child’s development and helping them express their creativity to make playtime more meaningful. Importance…
On September 25, the University of Illinois College of Education hosted its 21st annual Goldstick Family Lecture, made possible through the generosity of the Goldstick-Zelinger family. This year’s event featured Dr. Zach Rossetti, a nationally recognized scholar focused on inclusive education and friendships among children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Dr. Rossetti’s talk, “Prioritizing…
We can remember the itchy, tight, noisy, or smelly Halloween costumes we wore while trick-or-treating in our childhood. While they were uncomfortable for us, they can be overwhelming for kids with autism, often leading to stress, meltdowns, or avoidance. Here’s a comprehensive guide to costume ideas and tips to help your child with autism have…
Eating out is a family event that offers quality time connecting with the people you love. If you have a child with autism, this seemingly simple activity becomes a bit more complex. Your child’s needs take precedence — and since dining out can come with strict social expectations and unfamiliar environments that could overstimulate your…
If you’ve noticed your child is developing differently, whether that’s in speech, social interactions, or daily routines, you may be wondering if autism might be a possibility. The thought of an evaluation can feel overwhelming, and it’s common to wonder if you should “wait and see.” But here’s the truth: the sooner you seek an…
No two children are the same. Each child has a unique story, strengths to be celebrated, challenges to be supported, and goals that matter deeply to their family. At Stride Autism Centers, our foundation is simple: we meet your child where they are. ABA therapy is often misunderstood as rigid or one-size-fits-all. Our approach is…
When your child is newly diagnosed with autism, you may suddenly face a cascade of questions and decisions you never expected to make. One of the most pressing is: what kind of therapy schedule will be best for my child? Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy can be delivered in a range of settings and schedules.…
Family routine helps smooth out our busy days. It’s especially important for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Daily routines are really a series of gentle touchpoints that give your kiddo a sense of safe predictability as they learn new skills and thrive. To put your mind at ease, there’s no need to round up…
