It’s unfortunate that motherhood is subjected to external opinions/judgment; this is often the case for parents raising a child with PDA. This article offers some tips for parents experiencing “bad press”. Pathological demand avoidance (PDA) is characterized in children by a continual resistance to everyday demands through social manipulation which has, at its root, an

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in Autism Solutions by Sandy Turner, BEd (Hons) NPQH and Judy Turner, BEd (Hons)

Time does not exist, it’s an illusion, a human construct existing only in our minds to conceptualize change intellectually. There is no past or future, that is if you subscribe to theories by scientists like Carlo Revelli.  For many parents with neurodiverse children, time feels very real. Watching a ticking clock after you’ve sent your

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in Autism Solutions by Yolande Loftus, BA, LLB

When we consider the pathophysiology of autism, there is a lot of information to process. As a background, think about the fact our bodies function like an integrated system where each part and subpart plays a vital role in its overall functioning. When one part is affected, it may destabilize the system leading to disruptions

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in Autism Solutions by Andréas RB Deolinda, BA, BSc

Special interest…even the name is contentious. Some autistic people feel it’s an almost patronizing term, to them special interest misses the mark completely when describing something they’re so deeply invested in. Hobby falls short by miles. So maybe obsession, fascination, or even specialized interest is more apt? Not quite, some alternatives are actually offensive; so

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in Autism Solutions by Yolande Loftus, BA, LLB

As humans, we generally like knowing what to expect. Before we apply for a job, purchase a vacuum, book a trip, or whatever, we ask around or go online to acquire all the information we can find. Knowing what to expect provides us with the cushion of comfort we crave before diving in. Expectations are

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in Autism Solutions by Sofia Yassine, MEd

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication and behavior. An individual with autism might have difficulty with communication and interaction with other people. They may have restricted interests and repetitive behaviors, and can often struggle with motor planning. What is motor planning? Motor planning, also called Praxis, is the planning and

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in Autism Solutions by Emily Ransom, MSE

As children become older, they begin to develop a sense of self. This is known in psychology as metacognition: becoming aware of yourself, your thoughts, and how you relate to others. Research suggests metacognition is responsible for much of an individual’s responses in social situations and behaviors (e.g., (Nelson & Narens, 1990) (Grainger, Catherine, and

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in Autism Solutions by Louis Carter, MA

Ever wonder why your son or daughter always has a hard time holding on to directions you give? Or, ever wonder why when you give the direction “Clean your room,” it never looks exactly how you pictured it in your head? Sure, children, adolescents, and young adults, at times, choose to listen to certain things.

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in Autism Solutions by Chris Abildgaard, LPC, NCC, NCSP 

With summer break fast approaching, many of us have fond memories of our parents loading us into the car with the dog, camping equipment, and supplies and setting off on a family road trip, singing all the way. But for many of us, these fond recollections remain firmly in the past, never to be repeated.

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in Autism Solutions by Ruthangela Bernadette

I think farming has evolved over time, not just as a career opportunity or way of living, but also as a form of therapy. It’s been shown to provide so many areas of education and help children and adults with their emotions. It can become a coping mechanism when people are struggling. For me it’s been

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in Autism Solutions by Hannah Reeves

There comes a time as parents and carers where we will have to support our autistic child to live in a changing environment that is not always constant and regulated within our control. While children with autism have a fundamental need for routine, it is also important that we push the boundaries of routineness and

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in Autism Solutions by Professor May Ng, MBBS (Hons), FHEA, FRCPCH, MSc, LLM, PhD

The beautiful thing about autism is that oftentimes children and adults become hyper focused on one subject. Their interests can range from reciting lines from movies, to remembering stats of sports teams, to playing video games, to being gifted in art, to playing an instrument. The list of interests goes on and on. The number

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in Autism Solutions by Annette Nuñez, PhD

When I was younger, I would never use public transport. The thought of getting a train or bus, especially on my own, would have just scared me. During my years at secondary school, I would travel by taxi with others from my local area. Once I had left the school my parents decided it would

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in Autism Solutions by Alex Manners

Self-regulation is the ability to manage your emotions and behaviour when in situations that may evoke stress, anxiety, anger, and frustration. This includes being able to identify your feelings and channel them appropriately when presented with challenging circumstances. These skills, which are developed over time, enable children to reflect on the consequences of their actions

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in Autism Solutions by Judith Wilkinson

All too often there is too much to do and too little time to do it all. For students, time management can be a real struggle. They have school work, chores, planning (next school year, independent living, college, jobs), extracurricular activities, and sometimes pressures from peers and society—the elephant gets bigger as the list grows!

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in Autism Solutions by Sara Colorosa, PhD

Children with autism are no different than other children when it comes to the possibility of needing to get glasses. Many parents are aware of the possible behaviors associated with autism and their own children. Such behaviors as: poor eye contact, side viewing, photosensitivity, or even hand flapping are often viewed as part of having

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in Autism Solutions by Ron Malcolm, EdD

As an occupational therapist working in an interdisciplinary program for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), I often am leading groups of five to six children at a time. When planning our group activities, I strive to find the optimal way to facilitate improvement of each child’s fine motor skills at once. One of my

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in Autism Solutions by Rebecca Connick, MOT, LOTR

Who were we before we were carers for our autistic children, and who have we become after? How do we want to be, and what have we given up and gained on the deep path of raising them? I would not change my kids. I love and adore them for who they are. I appreciate

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in Autism Solutions by Gabrielle Hall

Your parenting style: helicopter, snowplow, or what is actually needed? You know what it takes to parent a child on the spectrum. You do this parenting gig every day. You know it is a bigger role than most parents will ever face and includes extra encouragement, extra reminders, extra appointments, less sleep, less personal time,

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in Autism Solutions by Rachel Bédard, PhD

Many of us have fallen in love with someone on the autism spectrum. We may only realize later, when we share children who become diagnosed as being on the spectrum, that our partner’s idiosyncrasies, amazing abilities, and literal interpretations actually are spectrum traits. Many adults who live regular lives, excelling in areas of math, science,

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in Autism Solutions by Lorna Lorna Hecker, Ph.D., LMFT

For those with spectrum issues, dating is one that has to be met with sensitivity and tact. But, because of a level of discomfort, this life lesson is sometimes glossed over despite good intentions. As a counselor who has worked with those with those with developmental disabilities of all ages, the concept of dating comes

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in Autism Solutions by Brett Novick, MS, LMFT, CSSW

It’s hard, folks. We all know the struggle and time consumption of caring for a child on the spectrum. It is a 24/7 lifestyle with what might seem like more downs than ups sometimes. I know for me it is a constant struggle, and when I say constant, I mean every single second is a

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in Autism Solutions by Patricia Wigginton

“What’s the car gonna look like when I do my driving for driver’s education?” “How will I tell the teacher if I’m not ready for the highway?” “What if the teacher puts on loud music?” “What if a bunch of kids are in the car with me?” These are the questions I dealt with recently

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in Autism Solutions by Heather Berry

Our ability to self-regulate or exercise control over our emotions and behaviors is a critical skill that evolves as we mature and get older. The goal of self-regulation is to gain control over our emotions and behavior in order to act in our long-term best interest. It helps us get through everyday life and cope

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in Autism Solutions by Ewa Omahen, PhD

Raising a child with autism is a reality for many parents, and it presents a number of regular challenges. Yet there are a number of practical approaches which can assist on the journey of bringing up a child who is on the autism spectrum, although it must be stated immediately that no two autistic children

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in Autism Solutions by Katrina Hatchett

Some families feel relief after an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis. Other families are hesitant to accept the diagnosis. Almost all families feel overwhelmed and ask, “What is the cure for autism?” There is no cure for autism, but there are treatments that can reduce some symptoms. Early intervention is key to making sure your

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in Autism Solutions by Katherine G. Hobbs, AA

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often face difficulty in understanding and navigating the world around them. A slight trigger can cause children who have ASD to become hyperactive. Furthermore, autistic children are prone to repeating specific patterns of behavior, which makes it difficult to interact with others. This is why digital devices provide an

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in Autism Solutions by Kenly Kiezer

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

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in Autism Solutions by Ron Malcolm, EdD

Several reports from parents, teachers, and therapists of children with autism have noted they have minor difficulties with handwriting skills. Some children on the spectrum are not able to write as well as their neurotypical peers. It is for this reason that weighted pencils were introduced and became popular among parents and occupational therapists. When

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in Autism Solutions by Kim Barloso, AB

Perspective taking is the ability to understand another person’s thoughts, feelings, wants, and needs. Have you ever wondered how to begin helping your child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) understand the perspective of others? Theory of Mind deficits in individuals with autism is extensively documented in research but where do we start? How do we

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in Autism Solutions by Connie Persike, MS, CCC-SLP

The stressors of a typical school day are only compounded for students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They often struggle with emotional self-regulation, or the ability to moderate feelings in situations that provoke intense reactions. Traversing a crowded lunchroom can flood heightened senses, and difficulty understanding social dynamics during group projects can spark panic. To

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in Autism Solutions by Sam Keller

When it comes to dental hygiene, it can be challenging for children with autism to regularly brush their teeth. They might experience discomfort when cleaning for the first time, making them dislike performing this important task. If you are a parent or a caregiver, you must be creative and consistent in finding ways to establish

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in Autism Solutions by Kim Barloso, AB

Is it better to let a child with autism flap his hands or should you stop it?– Jane Dear Jane, This a good question an one I’ve been asked many times about as an occupational therapist because many people consider it to be “self-stimming” and “sensory” in nature. This is possible, but as with any

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in Autism Solutions by Kelly Beins, BHSc, OTR/L

Dear Rob, Hello I have a seven-year-old with autism and he has bad tantrums and curses. I’m a single mom, what can I do to stop this and help him grow out of it?  — Brissa Dear Brissa, Along with the many well-intentioned efforts to understand, manage and treat the special needs child, there have

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in Autism Solutions by Rob Bernstein, MAEd

Close your eyes and imagine walking into a classroom and seeing what can only be explained as pure chaos. You can see students arguing with paraprofessionals, a student laying on the floor and kicking his feet while he yells,  a student sitting in the corner with his hood on (no doubt trying to cancel out

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in Autism Solutions by Ronette Parker

Standardized cognitive testing is a complicated subject when it comes to assessing children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Their social, communication, sensory and behavior problems compound the difficulties in administering a standardized measure. The tests rely heavily on the subject’s language skills, ability to interact with others, motor planning and execution, and behavioral regulation. Typically,

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in Autism Solutions by Ewa Omahen, PhD

NOTE: This article serves as guide information only and we recommend parents do up-to-date research before choosing where to base their family. The content in this article was last reviewed on April 30, 2021 and a methodology/references list can be found at the bottom of the content. Here at Autism Parenting Magazine we understand that

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in Autism Solutions by Emily Ansell Elfer, BA Hons, Dip

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

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in Autism Solutions by Ron Malcolm, EdD

Before you shrug off mindfulness as a trendy buzzword found on supermarket tabloids or at a local yoga studio, hear me out.  Mindful parenting is not complicated, nor is it something that you have to make time for; it is simply about being present. It’s an evidence-based practice that works. It’s about stopping and noticing

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in Autism Solutions by Emily Daniels, MSW, RP, Med

For individuals with autism, driving may seem like a goal that will never be achieved, even though driving is both a marker to independence and adulthood. Yet, up until recently, Dr. Gary Gaffney, an associate professor of psychiatry at the University Of Iowa College Of Medicine, reported that most people never thought individuals with autism

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in Autism Solutions by Sharon Link, PhD