Behavior 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 readingExpert Advice on Caring for Your ASD Child’s Teeth for Life
When it comes to dental hygiene, it can be challenging for children with autism to regularly brush their teeth. They might experience discomfort when cleaning for the first time, making them dislike performing this important task. If you are a parent or a caregiver, you must be creative and consistent in finding ways to establish […]
Continue readingOppositional Defiant Disorder Treatment Plan
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 […]
Continue readingGABA Supplements for Autism
What is GABA? Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. It is responsible for “reducing neuronal excitability throughout the nervous system.” By decreasing activity in the nervous system, GABA aid in reducing fight or flight responses such as fear, anxiety, aggression, stress, and agitation. Research suggests it might also […]
Continue readingAutism Grants for Families
How to apply for autism grants Applying for grants can seem like a daunting process. Don’t let paperwork, reference letters, and the waiting game discourage you from filling out an application. As an increasing volume of research on autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is published, public awareness is rising, and services—including grants—are more readily available than […]
Continue readingThe Thyroid and Autism Connection
Thyroid and Autism Connection 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 […]
Continue readingAutism and Depression: Connections Between Autism, Mental Health, Emotions, and Other Co-Relating Conditions
What is depression? Psychiatry.org defines depression as a medical illness that causes “feelings of sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.” People with autism, particularly teens and adults, are prone to depression. At this stage of their lives, autistic teens and adults have more social experiences. As a result, they can go […]
Continue readingThe Cruel Double-Standard Behind Autism and Access
Recently, The Washington Post published my opinion piece My Son Has Autism. He Deserves Separate Sensory-Friendly Opportunities which focused on why sensory-friendly (SF) opportunities should be the law of the land. The swift rise of vitriol alerted me to ways in which message being misconstrued on many sides, even by select parents who themselves have […]
Continue readingHigh Functioning Autism and Other Types of Autism
What is autism? Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a broad term used to describe a grouping of neurodevelopmental disorders. It can often affect a person’s way of interacting with others. People with autism often experience the world differently than their neurotypical peers. While the term autism covers a broad spectrum of symptoms, it is typically […]
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