3 Simple Tips For Implementing AAC for Better Connections
Augmentative-alternative communication has become more available to families as both they and schools access iOS technology and apps. But, sadly, what is not readily available is the knowledge of how best to teach their children how to use these systems to communicate. It’s a myth that you can give a child an AAC system, whether […]
Continue readingQuick Tips on Communications for Children With Autism and Special Needs
As a pediatrician, I have been taught that the developmental progress of a three to four-year-old should include well over 500 words and a child should be able to describe things and situations in a meaningful way. This milestone is one that all parents strive for as it is an important part of a child’s […]
Continue readingInternational Provisions for Kids With Special Educational Needs
The world is constantly evolving. Technology and medicine are becoming ever more advanced, while society is constantly striving to become more understanding, compassionate, and accepting towards our fellow people. Historically speaking, this understanding and compassion have been less than giving towards those with special educational needs (SEN) requirements, fortunately as we as a population learn […]
Continue readingHealthy Play Diets: The Best Way to Set Limits on Screen Time
In my work as a clinical child psychologist, I frequently encounter parents bewildered by their kids’ fascination with video games, social media, and other screen-based technologies. While problems with these technologies seem to be worse with kids diagnosed with ADHD or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), even many of the siblings of my patients would choose […]
Continue readingSensory Integration and Special Needs in the Dental Office
Most people have some degree of aversion to the sensory-rich dental experience. The sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and metallic instruments are literally in our faces. We can’t move or escape, while the dentist contorts our lips, sprays water while our mouths are open, and we try to breathe and communicate. It’s a challenge whether special […]
Continue readingTraining Young People With ASD to Be the Techies of Tomorrow
There’s a lot of talk about why teaching kids technology, programming in particular, is good for students in today’s educational landscape. Nearly every other week there seems to be some major news announcement around STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) or STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) and CS (computer science) and even, IT (information […]
Continue readingDoctor Makes Great Strides with Unique Treatment for Autism
Significant overall improvements often occur in those with autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by medically treating their coexisting inner-ear/cerebellar-determined (dyslexia or learning disabilities (LD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and anxiety related) symptoms with inner-ear-improving medications. Despite significant scientific advances, we currently do not know the primary cause(s) and cure of autism. Thus a […]
Continue readingHow Much Practical Time Should Your Child with ASD Spend on the Screen?
Do you know how much time your child spends on the screen playing video games? Do you know which kinds of games are detrimental or valuable to young minds? These are very challenging questions for parents, especially for parents of children with autism. There is no question that videogames, some apps and online activities can […]
Continue readingAssistive Communication Devices for Children with Autism
If you are wondering, “How can assistive technology help a child with autism?” you are not alone. Using different types of alternative forms of communication for autism has been proven to improve communication outcomes in children with language delays. The benefits of assistive technology for autism are widely recognized by speech-language pathologists. This article will […]
Continue readingIssue 71 – Navigating A New Year
Buy Single IssueSubscribe today and save 50%Features:Why Not Pledge to Cut Yourself Some Slack In the New Year?The father of a young, nonverbal boy compassionately reviews the true value of new year’s resolutions.James Guttman Easy Ways to Add Simple Communication Strategies to a Kid’s LifeA speech-language pathologist, parent coach, and autism expert describes ways to integrate […]
Continue readingWays Technology Can Aid ASD Students in the Classroom
Great strides have been made in the past few years towards embracing the inherent challenges and discoveries made about the different degrees of autism. Targeted diets, advanced educator training, multitudes of periodical resources and specialized mainstream community mentor programs are all available to lend support. However, it is technology in the classroom that has propelled […]
Continue readingMaking Popular Video Games Good for Kids Affected by Autism
It’s hard to find a child these days who doesn’t love video games, but for many kids on the autism spectrum, digital play has an especially strong draw. Children affected by autism appear to be particularly attracted to video games because of the visual nature of screen-based technology, the structure, and immediate feedback gaming provides. […]
Continue readingSimple Ways Sensory Based Intervention Can Change Your ASD Child’s Life
One in six children experiences sensory difficulties that affect everyday life. Sensory based intervention has been shown effective. A family-centered approach emphasizes parental coaching in natural environments of the family. Despite the importance of intervention carryover, adherence is believed to be low. This is due to the overwhelming nature, required commitment and lifestyle changes asked of children and […]
Continue readingDad Creates Simple App to Help Autistic Son Communicate Better
Much has been said over the years concerning technology and education — there has been and still is an ongoing debate about how we can best implement technology into schools to the benefit of children. Our adult life on a day-to-day basis is filled with technology, from touch screens to order plane tickets to self-checkout […]
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