Encopresis is a common struggle for autistic children. The scientific term comes from the Greek en– (“inside”) and kopros (“stool”). In other words, “you have poop stuck inside you.” When simple constipation turns into a hard, dry blockage, soft stool leaks around the block. The child usually can’t control the leakage. Often, the encopresis develops… Continue Reading
You can’t change the radio channel fast enough. You’ve had a bad day, and you can’t make up your mind what you want to want to listen to. You scan the radio channels like you are looking for a needle in a haystack. Then you hear it. That old song that takes you back to… Continue Reading
It’s a PARTY. You hold an ice cream cone in front of a child’s face, and it creates a party in the brain. The child’s brain activity goes wild and sees nothing to the left or right, only seeing what’s in front of him/her. What some may not know is with a child with autism,… Continue Reading
For anyone who has ever flown, the oxygen mask safety speech is a routine part of boarding. Frequently, it falls into the background as we adjust ourselves in preparation for several cramped hours in the sky. But, that speech carries a beautiful message regarding self-care. The Oxygen Mask Rule is simple: if the cabin loses… Continue Reading
For parents who have a child with autism, a deep frustration can exist once the child has completed his/her education and faces employment challenges as a young adult. When Park Ridge, IL resident Cindy Montgomery recognized the disconnect between transition services for her son with autism and true employment opportunities for him, she created Teachability,… Continue Reading
The etiology of autism, though still a mystery, is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Autism is thought to develop sometime during pregnancy and the first three years of life (early-onset autism) or, as in regressive or late-onset autism, some children appear to have developed normally until 12-24 months before losing… Continue Reading
It’s not what you’re eating: it’s how you’re eating. Dysphagia (swallowing disorder) has not received a lot of attention for individuals with autism. The symptoms may be mild, masked, or uneventful in the pediatric population. Dysphagia may be noted, but in the big picture, it may not be a priority. Further evaluation and treatment of… Continue Reading
When you hear the words “essential oils,” one image that might pop into your mind is going to the spa for some much-needed relaxation. Essentials oils are sometimes associated with spas because they are often used by a massage therapist or masseuse during a therapy session. But did you know essential oils can be… Continue Reading
“There are many reasons to encourage fitness activities for youth and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Regular physical activity has been shown to enhance both behavior and mood.” Fred R. Volkmar, M.D. Irving B. Harris Professor, Director – Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, Chief of Child Psychiatry, Yale New Haven Hospital, Editor… Continue Reading
We all know that dental health is important, but it can present extra challenges to children with autism. Taking care of your children’s teeth is an important aspect of their overall health and can prevent more serious problems from developing later on. Most dentists advise brushing your child’s teeth from the appearance of their first… Continue Reading