Supportive therapies help children thrive in all aspects of their development, including social, physical, emotional, and cognitive growth. Swimming is a powerful therapeutic tool that can help your kiddo learn and gain confidence while having fun. Children with autism often benefit from swimming because it offers calm, sensory input and opportunities to practice various skills.…
Taking your kiddo to a movie theater is a fun way to make memories, but it’s always best to have a plan when approaching new situations and introducing a new environment. With the right preparation, you and your child can both have a fantastic time enjoying a new favorite on the big screen. Preparing for…
Stride was proud to return to the Iowa State Capitol this year for the 16th Annual Autism Advocacy & Acceptance Day on the Hill, hosted by the Autism Society of Iowa. The event brought together families, advocates, educators, students, school leaders, and lawmakers for a day dedicated to raising awareness, sharing lived experiences, and advocating…
We were proud to see one of our Northwest Omaha families recently featured on KMTV, sharing their experience supporting their young son, Cooper. In the interview, Cooper’s parent Ryan spoke with our CEO Brad Zelinger about what their family’s journey has looked like since beginning early intervention. Stories like Cooper’s matter because many families are…
As a parent, you would love to give the perfect gift that lights up your kiddo’s face. Finding holiday gifts for children with autism involves considering their specific needs for predictability, routine, and sensory comfort, rather than traditional, overwhelming holiday experiences. This quick guide for busy parents has been expertly curated to make holiday shopping…
Thanksgiving is a time to build lasting memories and traditions. Involving kids in the cooking and preparations adds extra meaning to these moments. Children also learn practical skills and grow in confidence when they play a part in making the holiday special. For parents of young children with autism, the idea of including your child…
Thanksgiving is a time for joy and togetherness — but it’s not without its challenges for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The holiday replaces your child’s predictable, everyday life with an unfamiliar and highly stimulating environment, which can be stressful and overwhelming. Sensory activities like arts and crafts can help your child during this busy season by…
Families living in Lincoln, Nebraska, know that this warm and friendly community is a great place to raise your kids. But what if you have kiddos with autism? No matter where you go in the city, people here have fully embraced a heart of inclusivity — and many family-friendly venues reflect this commitment. So, whether…
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…