Finding “just the right gift” for a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is not always a simple task. Due to the various sensitivities and needs that many children with autism may have, it’s important to carefully consider what kinds of gifts are a good fit. In an effort to help families and friends find… Continue Reading
What is low functioning autism? Low functioning autism falls on the more severe end of the autism spectrum. Children diagnosed with this form of autism need more support to complete daily tasks as they struggle to communicate and manage their behaviors. Symptoms are typically identifiable in infancy or early childhood, as those diagnosed will not… Continue Reading
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may have issues effectively processing sensory information and may perceive sensation differently. For example, a child may perceive touch sensation as painful or immediately become startled when touched. Some children are extremely sensitive to noises such as the sound of a toilet flushing. A child’s sensory needs and way… Continue Reading
Buy Single Issue Subscribe today and save 50% Features: Celebrating the Love and Strength of Women in Our Lives In celebration of Mother’s Day, autism advocate and attorney Areva Martin shares an intimate look at the enduring effect of strong and loving women. Areva Martin, Esq. Top Ways Autistic Teens Can Transition to the… Continue Reading
Buy Single Issue Subscribe today and save 50% Features: 6 Expert Ways to Help Your Sensory-Sensitive Child Dress A pediatric occupational therapist shares great tips for dressing a child when hypersensitivity to certain fabrics or surfaces is a challenge. Susan Donohoe, OTR/L The Best Academic Choice for Your Child’s Needs A special guide to… Continue Reading
Parents of children with special needs often fear being judged by others. It is hoped that the church will be an accepting environment; however, the reality is that the majority of church members with children who have special needs do not attend church regularly. Church holds great importance to many families, yet the thought of… Continue Reading
Many families with a child diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may not look forward to mealtimes. A child might only eat a specific brand of each food in their diet or might just chew crunchy solids. Or, the child may only eat if he/she can move around the mealtime table. Because parents have a… Continue Reading
In many ways, Thanksgiving is a perfect storm of challenges for children on the autism spectrum and for their parents. Not only is the holiday built around every possible stressor, but it also provides virtually no outlets for autistic strengths. In an ideal world, you’d have family and friends who fully understand your child’s needs… Continue Reading
Buy Single Issue Subscribe today and save 50% Features: Why Children with Autism Need Family Holiday Traditions Great tips on how to prepare a rigid child for the many changes the season brings as well as the benefits of family traditions. Brittany Fichter Inspiring Boy “Breaks” Through Autism and Its Stereotypes A mother shares… Continue Reading
You probably have a favorite memory from the holiday season that brought your family together. Finding an activity that everyone can enjoy and participate in, especially when you have a child with autism, can be challenging. Depending on your child’s abilities or their sensory aversions, the typical holiday activities may be out of the question.… Continue Reading