Amazing Ways Surfing Changes the Lives of Children With Autism
Attend any surf event for children with autism, and there’s more than what meets the eye. While it may look like a day where children and young adults are simply surfing, there’s actually a powerful form of therapy taking place, something I discovered firsthand. Surf events for children with autism and other special needs are […]
Continue readingHow Cats Can Help Children With Autism Become More Social
Cats are lovable and cute, but what most people don’t know is that these furry animals can help children with autism improve their social skills. Cats bond with the children by providing affection and attention which promotes healthy relationships. Parents with children who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD) might not want to get their child […]
Continue readingAutism Diet and Nutrition: How Does it Affect Autism Health?
Although there is no conclusive evidence that diet can improve symptoms of autism, many parents and caregivers of children with autism are using nutrition to modify and manage some behaviors that come with being on the spectrum. Before learning about popular autism diet options for your child, it’s important to understand how nutrition plays a […]
Continue readingThe Pros and Cons of Screen Time for Kids with ASD
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 […]
Continue readingTypes of Autism Behavior Interventions
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 […]
Continue readingHow to Help a Child With Autism With Emotional Self-Regulation
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 […]
Continue readingBehavior Support Strategies for Children With Autism
Because autism comes with neurological differences, it is almost certain that these children will have difficulty with conventional behavior expectations. Among the common characteristics of autism which often lead to behavioral conflicts, are the following: Significant, atypical difficulties with understanding and using language. This is especially demanding in group situations where several people are conversing, […]
Continue readingMedical Cannabis, Autism, and the Transformation of Medicine
In 1987, during my freshman year at Lehigh University, our first English assignment was to write a letter to an elected official advocating for a controversial issue of our choosing. I decided to write my United States congressman to express why I believed marijuana should be legalized. What was supposed to be a three to […]
Continue readingA Parent’s Love Knows No Bounds
A parent’s love is a special love. It is not about approval or accomplishment. It is about unconditional support and concern. It’s a love born in joy, nurtured during adversity and reconfirmed on a daily and hourly basis. It’s a love bound up in anxiety and expectation. Often worry and concern can creep in as […]
Continue readingA Special Father’s Day: My Journey With Marley
My oldest daughter is 17 years old, and her name is Marley. I should have known the journey with Marley was going to be an interesting ride from the start. My wife and I adopted Marley from China on her first birthday. The day I officially became a father is the most vivid day of […]
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