American Sign Language (ASL) is the third most used foreign language in the United States. It ranks right behind Spanish and French, with approximately 2 million individuals in the United States utilizing it (Gallaudet University Library, 2016). How can this beautiful language be used to benefit the lives of children with autism? 1. Does Your […]

Many parents seem to focus on schoolteachers when preparing for the first day of school. However, the truth for many children is that the first person they encounter may not be their classroom teacher—but rather the school bus driver. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are no different. Ensuring this step goes smoothly is extremely […]

Each day children wake up and get ready to attend school. During that process, every parent expects that their child will arrive back home in the same condition as when he/she left. Current estimates suggest that 1:3 girls and 1:10 boys will be sexually abused by the time they are 18 years old (Tang, Freyd, […]

Many children struggle with the idea of going to the dentist, but for children with autism, a trip to the dentist office can create anxiety and even panic. Here are some simple suggestions that may ease stress levels and make your dental visit a success. 1. Visual Schedules A visual schedule is a great way […]

Family life is a challenge for many of us these days. Even with two parents in the home, it can still become a “juggling act” to meet all the needs for each child present. Yet, within the busy framework of family life, how often are the siblings without autism encouraged to sit down and express […]

There are many reasons why a family may use air travel. Maybe your child with autism wants to visit his/her grandparents. It could be a holiday visit with family members who live out of state. A simple summer vacation trip out of state could involve your child with special needs preparing to board a plane […]