The school year is almost over, and summer vacation is about to start. This is a big change for any child, but for an autistic child, the variation from their daily routine can be especially upsetting. It can also be a challenge for parents and caregivers, as they will have to come up with and …
The description and diagnosis of autism have changed significantly over the years. Today, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5 (DSM-5) in the US describes it as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Here is a timeline of events that led up to this diagnosis: 1911: Eugen Bleuler, a Swiss psychiatrist, was the first person to use …
Rigid or inflexible thinking and behavior are one of the core characteristics of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This can manifest in an autistic child having an unbending opinion on certain topics or a child wanting to stick to the same routine, even when switching things up could be more pleasant or efficient. Some examples …
Rigid Thinking in Autism: 8 Ways to Teach Flexibility to Autistic Children Read More »
As a grandparent and full-time caregiver of a teenager on the autism spectrum, setting personal goals for the New Year isn’t something at the top of my to-do list anymore. In years past, I used to make resolutions that focused on self-improvement, such as losing weight or getting back in shape, finishing projects, etc. While …
Setting Meaningful and Achievable New Year’s Goals for Autism Parents and Caregivers Read More »
If you are a teacher, parent, caregiver, or family member of an autistic child in the middle of holiday gift shopping, you may wonder what are some good gifts for children on the autism spectrum. Shopping for them can be tricky, as many have restricted interests, sensory- or other challenges. Read More>>
MTSS stands for multi-tiered system of supports. It is a data-driven, tiered framework, also referred to as a multi-tiered process or model of supports, that is designed to help schools identify struggling students early and intervene quickly. Besides focusing on giving students targeted support in academics, MTSS also concentrates on other areas, such as behavior …
What Is MTSS and How Does It Help Struggling Students? Read More »
Two of the most common assessments used to evaluate autistic children are the Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills (ABLLS) and the Verbal Behavior – Milestones Assessment and Placement Program (VB-MAPP). These assessments are very similar, but some differences may make one test more suitable than the other for your child or student. Read …
ABLLS Vs. VB-MAPP Assessments: What’s the Difference? Read More »
An Individual Education Plan (IEP) is a legal document that is developed during a meeting between parents and school staff for every child eligible for special education. This plan includes a child’s strengths and weaknesses, educational needs, goals, and the services needed to achieve quantifiable results. Read More>>
Many children with autism do not learn skills spontaneously and may need extra help and specific teaching to learn things that may come naturally to their typically developing peers. They often need highly structured, repetitive instruction that requires them to actively engage with their environment to learn new skills. This is where Discrete Trial Training …
According to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), every child with special needs has the right to be educated in the least restrictive environment (LRE), which is the general education classroom as a first option. Working toward a more restrictive environment is only acceptable if needs come up that cannot be met with support and …
Our Autism Journey from Special Education to Mainstream Classrooms Read More »
