Articles that focus on a wide range of tools, services, programs and teaching methods that can potentially help someone on the spectrum reach their potential. Sometimes the words ‘treatment’ and ‘intervention’ are used as well.
I am a UK-based Speech and Language Therapist experienced in working with children who have an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as well as severe speech difficulties that can be best described by childhood apraxia of speech (CAS). I have been touched and inspired by the amazing progress made during therapy and I want to, in […]
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The martial arts are everywhere. You can find references to them in movies, on the covers of magazines, in TV commercials, and most likely you have one in your neighborhood strip-mall. Whether someone is looking for improved focus, expanded levels of conditioning, a newfound sense of purpose and self-confidence, or a healthy social environment to […]
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Dogs are often referred to as man’s best friend. In fact, the American Pet Products Association found that in 2019, 63.4 million Americans own a dog. Countless studies support the claim that having a dog improves overall well-being, especially for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). There are three areas where trained dogs can benefit […]
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Screaming, pinching, biting, hitting, pulling hair, and spinning—those are things that are seen quite often in my house. My youngest child has autism—with a piggybacking disorder of aggression. As a parent of two typical children, this is not something you would expect to hear from another parent at a park play date! Trying to give […]
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What is occupational therapy? The role of occupational therapy for autism is to help the child participate in the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. (“About Occupational Therapy,” 2019) Occupational therapy takes a holistic approach to the client’s wellbeing. It addresses the physical, psychological, and cognitive aspects […]
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What is Craniosacral Therapy? Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a non-invasive, touch-based therapy that is part of cranial osteopathy. This therapy involves applying gentle pressure on the skull, spine, and parts of the pelvis. It is used by osteopaths, chiropractors, and massage therapists to relieve pain and discomfort. Practitioners claim that craniosacral therapy can melt away […]
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Approaches that help autism are widely varied and individualized. Autistic symptoms are also unique to the individual, although they tend to fall into clusters or patterns. So where does it all come together? We know that all of these approaches affect the autistic’s brain, and most of the symptoms emerge from the brain as a […]
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What is an intervention? Intervention for autism involves taking action, often with outside help, to improve a specific condition or behavior. A successful intervention requires the cooperation of the child, parent, and therapist. With consistent practice and teamwork, interventions can make a difference. There are many interventions that address the many challenges parents encounter when […]
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What Is Oppositional Defiant Disorder? Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is a type of behavior disorder mostly seen in children. Children with ODD have consistent behavior patterns which include being argumentative and defiant towards parents and other figures of authority. According to documentation from the DSM-5, oppositional defiant disorder is “a pattern of angry/irritable mood, argumentative/defiant […]
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Scientists and researchers have noted that autism and thyroid disease are two epidemics on the rise. Dr. Raphael Kellman believes autism and thyroid disease are closely related. His study showed that 75 percent of children with autism have undiagnosed thyroid problems often due to unreliable blood tests. The most common type of thyroid disease seen […]
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