The Pathophysiology of Autism Unpacked
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
Children with Autism and Their Special Interests
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
How Are Your Expectations Affecting Your Child?
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
Motor Planning and Children with Autism
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
What to Do When Kids with ASD Become Aware That They Are Different Than Others
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